Coke Memorial Methodist Church, Kingston

The Coke Memorial Methodist Church stands as a prominent historical and architectural landmark in Downtown Kingston. Located at East Parade on Church Street, this red-brick chapel is often referred to as the Pride of Parade Street-a title well earned due to its elegant Neo-Gothic architecture infused with Georgian-era elements, echoing the medieval churches of England.

The church’s origins date back to 1790 when the first Methodist chapel opened on this site. However, it faced early resistance; a grand jury in Kingston once ordered its closure, citing disruption to public peace. Persevering through social and political opposition-especially due to Methodist opposition to slavery-the chapel reopened and continued to serve the city’s spiritual community.

The present-day church was built in 1840 and named in honor of Dr. Thomas Coke, the founder of the Methodist Missions in the British West Indies, who arrived in Jamaica in 1789. This structure replaced the original chapel and quickly became a vital religious and cultural institution.

Tragically, the church was severely damaged during the devastating earthquake of 1907. In response, it was completely rebuilt in 1908, retaining its Neo-Gothic style and red-brick construction. Today, the restored building continues to be a symbol of resilience and faith, and it is recognized as a national monument.

Situated near the Duke Street United Church and the Simon Bolivar Cultural Centre, the Coke Memorial Methodist Church remains not only a center for worship but also a living testimony to Jamaica’s colonial history, the Methodist movement’s advocacy against slavery, and the city’s architectural heritage.