Remembering Rev Carmel Jones – Founder of The Pentecostal Credit Union Passes Away

Friday 26 January 2024

The credit union sector mourns the loss of an early trailblazer – Rev Carmel Jones. Rev Carmel Jones was a member of the Windrush Generation and was at the forefront of Britain’s Black Church community.

The Pentecostal Credit Union founder died peacefully in hospital on Saturday 22^nd July surrounded by his family.

Amongst the many of Britain’s Black Church leaders who have paid tribute to the late Rev Carmel Jones, Rev Ade Omooba and Dionne Gravesande, co-chairs of the National Church Leaders Forum said:

“We honour an exceptional man whose indomitable spirit and unwavering faith blazed a trail of inspiration for countless lives. As the visionary founder of Pentecostal Credit Union and a distinguished black Christian Pioneer, he empowered a Black British community with financial inclusion and spiritual guidance. Rev Carmel Jones legacy resonates through generations, symbolising resilience, compassion, and an unyielding commitment to uplifting others. His profound impact on society and unwavering dedication to bridging the gap will forever remain etched in the hearts of those he touched. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire.’’

The PCU was launched at a time when black people – the Windrush Generation and their children – found it difficult to access financial services from Britain’s established banks and building societies. In response to the obstacles of racism and financial exclusion experienced by the black British community at the time, PCU provided a range of services, including personal loans, business and church loans and savings accounts to individuals as well as church leaders and business owners desirous to buy their own buildings.

Robert Kelly, ABCUL CEO said “The Association is saddened to learn of the passing of Rev Carmel Jones. He was a trailblazer in the credit union movement and an inspiration to all. Our thoughts are with his family and friends, and we wish to extend our most sincere gratitude to all Rev Carmel Jones achieved in his lifetime.”

Read more about the invaluable contribution of the Windrush Generation to the credit union sector in ABCUL’s recent news story here.