LONDON, United Kingdom.
Sierra Leone’s Deputy High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Mrs Yvonne King Odigboh, has joined members of The Wilberforce Association (SL) UK, community leaders, distinguished guests and worshippers at the Association’s 15th Annual Thanksgiving Service, reaffirming the values of unity, service and the preservation of Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage in the diaspora.
Held on Sunday, 28 June 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Church, Wiltshire Road, London, the thanksgiving service brought together members of the Sierra Leonean community under the theme, “*Overflowing with Thankfulness” (Colossians 2:7)*.
Mrs King Odigboh attended the event in her capacity as the Association’s Distinguished Grand Chief Patron, reflecting both her personal commitment to the organisation and the Sierra Leone High Commission’s continued engagement with diaspora groups that promote national identity, community cohesion and the welfare of Sierra Leoneans in the United Kingdom.
The service featured an Anglican liturgy with scripture readings from *1 Chronicles 17:16–24, Colossians 2:1–7, and Luke 17:11–19*. The sermon, delivered by Reverend Dr Lesley A. W. Shyllon, centred on *gratitude as a foundation for faith, resilience and community development*.
The programme also recognised the dedication of the Association’s leadership, including Grand Chief Patrons Mr and Mrs Henry Showers, Grand Chief Receiver Ms Edith Wilson, Chief Receiver Ms Dolly Grant, and the organising committee for their unwavering service to the Association.
In a message published in the commemorative programme, the Association expressed appreciation to its patrons, members, invited guests and supporters for their continued encouragement, prayers and generosity, noting that their commitment has strengthened the spirit of fellowship, service and the preservation of Sierra Leonean heritage.
The service concluded with a vote of thanks, a final blessing and the recessional hymn, bringing to a close an afternoon of worship, reflection and fellowship.
Mrs King Odigboh’s participation highlighted the enduring partnership between the Sierra Leone High Commission in London and diaspora organisations such as The Wilberforce Association (SL) UK, whose work continues to foster unity, promote cultural heritage and strengthen the bonds among Sierra Leoneans living abroad.
Abdulai Braima
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