A Heartfelt "Thank You"

and the Christmas Story continues...

Thank you to everyone who helped make Christmas at Emmanuel Church possible. To those who served tea, mulled wine, and mince pies, to carol singers, welcomers, and everyone who gave time, energy, and creativity—you made it all happen. Because of you, thousands were able to gather, sing, reflect, and celebrate the good news of Jesus’ birth. Your service and generosity brought warmth, joy, and welcome to so many across the city.

Together we shared classic carol services, quiet candlelit moments for reflection, joyful family celebrations (450 people at our Christmas Eve service!), and the stillness of Midnight Communion. We sang carols, heard the story of Christ told afresh, and created space for joy, hope, and stillness. Beyond the services, Christmas spilled into the community with carols in care homes, creative spaces for children, shared meals, and school visits that filled the church with song and excitement.

Our theme this year was Presence, more than stuff. And while the decorations are packed away and the services have ended, Christmas does not stop. The celebration may pause, but the opportunity does not. God’s presence is not limited to a season or a service—it continues in ordinary days, in our neighbourhoods, and in our lives.

As we move into the new year, the invitation remains: to live with God’s presence at the centre, to bring His love to those around us, to offer welcome, kindness, and hope wherever we can. Christmas is a reminder that God is with us, not just for a moment, but for every day. The songs we sang, the lights we enjoyed, and the joy we shared all point to something far bigger: a God who comes close, who sees, who heals, and who invites us into His story.

If you joined us this Christmas, whether once or many times, know that you are always welcome. Emmanuel means “God with us,” and His presence continues—here, with you, and in our city.