This site is a tribute to Istance Palmer, who was born in Blackwood, Clarendon, Jamaica on January 14, 1935. He is much loved and will always be remembered.

Elder Istance Palmer was a founding member of the Luton New Testament Church of God, where his service and dedication began the very origins of the Luton Church in 1963. The Luton congregation initially gathered in the front room of the Hunter’sfamily home on Napier Road, where prayer meetings were held. Over time, the church grew and moved to various locations, including the school hall of Beech Hill School on Dunstable Road, before settling at St. Paul's Church Hall in the 1970s. During these formative years, Elder Palmer was instrumental in welcoming new ministers and their families. Notable ministers at that time were Pastor Williams and Pastor Sewell.
 
Throughout his life, Elder Palmer remained a steadfast cornerstone of the Church, offering counsel and support to ministers and tirelessly working for the Church. He served as a Deacon, providing wisdom and guidance to the Church’s leadership. His commitment to the Luton New Testament Church of God extended beyond traditional roles, particularly in his dedication to the younger generation. He was known for his efforts to bring children and youth to Sunday School in the church van, ensuring they were actively involved in the life of the church.
 
In addition to his spiritual leadership, Elder Palmer was a trusted friend and confidant to many. His ability to provide confidential counsel made him a trusted advisor to individuals and families, often assisting people with advice and guidance in their relationships. His discreet and compassionate nature made him a reliable source of support for those navigating personal challenges, and he earned the deep respect of those who sought his wisdom.
 
Elder Palmer was also known for organising the yearly Sunday school trips to the seaside and other notable attractions such as Madame Tussauds and London Zoo. His commitment to bringing joy and enrichment to the younger members of the church through these excursions was unmatched.
 
Beyond his role in the church, Elder Palmer took the initiative to organise his own annual excursions, bringing together older members of the community for trips to places such as Blackpool for the illuminations and various other attractions around the country. These trips not only fostered fellowship and connection but also raised funds for the church, exemplifying Elder Palmer's selflessness and dedication to the Church's mission.
 
For more than 25 years, Elder Palmer served as President of the Men's Fellowship (Life Builders), a role in which he excelled. His leadership in organising local men’s events, fellowship meetings, and social gatherings had a profound impact on the men of the church and the community. Elder Palmer's commitment to visiting and praying for men in the church and community empowered many. His influence reached not only the local congregation but also the district and national levels, where he encouraged men to engage in the business of the Men's Fellowship and inspired them to be effective in their churches, communities, and personal lives.
 
A fervent believer in the power of prayer, Elder Palmer often shared his belief that prayer was the most important and valuable ingredient for life, and he firmly believed that prayer was his only weapon. One of his favourite scriptures was “The prayer of the faithful man availeth much” (James 5:16), a passage that reflected his deep conviction in the power of prayer to bring about meaningful change and guidance. His life was a testament to the strength of this belief, as he constantly encouraged others to seek the Lord in prayer.
 
Elder Palmer was not only a man of service but also a man of faith, integrity, and dedication. His legacy in the Luton New Testament Church of God will live on through the countless lives he touched, the ministers he supported, the men he empowered, the joy he brought to the community, and the wisdom and counsel he shared with so many.