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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.

Ordered for Growth Together Have you ever wondered what it looks like for a church to grow well, faithfully, and together? At Emmanuel, we are seeing God at work in exciting ways, and we want to celebrate it—and reflect on what comes next. Vision Sunday on the 18th January is a chance to join us as we explore how a growing church responds to the opportunities and challenges God brings. We will look at Acts 6, when the early church, guided by prayer and wisdom, faced the pressures of growth and reordered its life so the mission could flourish. In the morning service, we will celebrate progress, share the current reality, and reflect on the pressures that come with growth. It’s a chance to see how God is shaping a church community that is vibrant, faithful, and mission-focused. In the evening, there will be space for prayer, conversation, and questions. Whether you are a long-time member, a visitor, or simply curious, this is a time to explore together how God might be leading Emmanuel into the next season. This is not about crisis or quick fixes—it’s about a church learning to grow well. Everyone is welcome to come, celebrate, pray, and discern with us as we step into the future God is shaping.

There is something profoundly beautiful about being truly seen. Not just noticed in a crowd or acknowledged with a polite nod, but deeply, truly known. Recently, over fifty of us gathered at The Well , a prayer space here at Emmanuel designed for that very purpose: to pause, breathe, and meet Jesus. I was moved to tears reading the reflections left behind. One person spoke of letting go of past trauma; another felt a heavy burden of anxiety lift; many simply savoured the "oasis of peace" that comes from sitting with the Lord. It reminded me why I love serving Jesus so much. He doesn't just offer us a religion; He offers us Himself, the living water that actually satisfies our deepest thirst. As we move out of that season of quiet reflection, we are diving into a brand-new sermon series that carries this theme even further. Our New Series: The God Who Sees Our series, The God Who Sees: From the Well to the Waters , is a journey through Scripture. We are exploring how the God who met the woman at the well has always been a God who pursues His people, drawing them from the dry wilderness into the refreshing overflow of His Spirit. In my own life, especially as I balance the joys, a busy church, family life with Steph and our three energetic kids, I often have to remind myself that I am not just a "worker" for God. I am a child who is seen by Him. Whether you feel like you are just dipping your toes into faith or you are ready to swim in the deep end, this series is for you. The Journey Ahead Each week, we will explore a different "depth" of faith as we look at those who encountered the Living God: Ankle-Deep: We begin with Hagar in the wilderness. When she felt dismissed and alone, she discovered El Roi , the God who sees. Knee-Deep: We watch Moses at the burning bush. God sees the suffering of His people and calls us into His big purposes. Chest-Deep: We sit with Elijah in his exhaustion. If you are feeling weary, this is a moment for God to strengthen you tenderly. Shoulder-Deep: We cry out with Bartimaeus , finding the courage to be noticed by Jesus even when the world tells us to be quiet. Submerged: We touch the hem of Jesus’ garment with the Bleeding Woman , stepping out of shame and into total healing. Overflow: We climb the tree with Zacchaeus and watch as Jesus’ love spills over into a transformed life and a restored community. A Light to the City Our vision at Emmanuel is to be a light to the city . But we cannot shine if we are dry. We need to be Hungry for more of Him, Humble enough to admit our need, and Hopeful that He is moving in Plymouth. One thing I know for certain: Jesus is life-changing. He sees the hidden hurts, the secret hopes, and the daily struggles. He is inviting us to wade further into the life He has for us. I would love to welcome you to Emmanuel to explore this with us Will you join us as we step into the deeper waters?

WE ARE HIRING youth & young adults lead Do you have a heart for youth and young adults meeting Jesus? We’re hiring a Youth & Young Adults to build partnerships, lead and disciple, and help grow our ministry amongst our young people and young adults here in Plymouth. Hours: 40 Hours A Week (Full-time) Salary: £27k - £31k FTE Email for an informal conversation: peter.shaw@emmanuelplymouth.co.uk recruitment@emmanuelplymouth.co.uk Applications are considered on a rolling basis and will be considered as they come in. Role Description Application Form Parish Profile

SAFEGUARDING If you have a concern about the safety of someone or the actions of someone working with children or vulnerable adults, please speak to someone. The Parish Safeguarding Representative is Mrs. Carol Springett The Diocesan Safeguarding Team can be contacted here . If you are a young person and you feel unhappy about something happening to you, you can call Childline on 0800 11 11 Report a safeguarding concern Emmanuel Plymouth Parish Safeguarding Policy Statement Statement of Safeguarding Principles The Emmanuel, Plymouth Parochial Church Council fully recognises and accepts the House of Bishops' Safeguarding Policy Statement "Promoting a Safer Church 2017", and commits to complying with the current Church of England and Diocesan safeguarding policies and practice guidance. In so doing we will comply with the secular multi-agency safeguarding procedures relating to children and young people and adults experiencing or at risk of harm, abuse or neglect. We are committed to: Promoting a safer environment and culture within our Parish and in our Parish activities by adhering to safe working practices and acknowledge the principle that safeguarding is everyone's business. In addition we will ensure that any individual organisation renting/using our premises for activities involving children, young people or vulnerable adults is aware of this, our Safeguarding Policy, and aware of their own individual responsibilities to have appropriate safeguarding policies and processes in place, including safer recruitment. Safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibilities related to children, young people and vulnerable adults within the Church in accordance with the House of Bishops' Safer Recruitment: Practice Guidance 2016. We will ensure those appointed are aware of the Diocesan and Parish Safeguarding Policies and are aware of their roles and responsibilities. We will support them by ensuring they receive Diocesan safeguarding training commensurate with their role and that they are fully aware of and have access to the practice guidance. Responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation in accordance with the statutory child and adult safeguarding procedures and the House of Bishops' safeguarding practice guidance. We will ensure that any complaint made regarding a vulnerable person, who may have been harmed or is in significant danger, will be reported immediately and we will fully cooperate with statutory agencies during any investigation into allegations concerning a member of the church community or any other person. Caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons. We will seek to offer informed pastoral care and support to anyone who has suffered abuse, developing with them an appropriate ministry that recognises the importance of understanding the needs of those who have been abused, including their feelings of alienation and/or isolation and provide them with details of local and national support agencies. Caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons. We will work with others to ensure the appropriate support for them and those affected. Where that person is considered to pose a risk to others, we will work with the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor to mitigate any identified risk. Responding to those that may pose a present risk to others. We will endeavour to offer pastoral care and support whilst ensuring any risk has been assessed and is being managed in accordance with House of Bishops' policy and guidance and in collaboration with the statutory agencies and the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor. Safeguarding representative We will ensure that there is an identified person to be the Parish Safeguarding Representative who will be suitably recruited and trained, and is aware of their role and responsibilities, and who will be the point of contact for any concerns. We have appointed Mrs Carol Springett as our Parish Safeguarding Representative. Guidance Copies of Diocesan and parish guidelines and procedures are held by Mrs Carol Springett. Review This policy will be formally reviewed annually and a copy shared with the Archdeacon at the time of the Visitation. Date of Adoption The PCC of this Church agreed and adopted the above Policy at its meeting on 15 May 2025. The PCC shall review this policy annually. The next review will take place at the first PCC meeting following the APCM to be held May 2026.

A LIGHT FOR THE CITY Our purpose at Emmanuel is to be 'a light for the city' reflecting Jesus, the light of the world. We are committed to being a visible and transformative presence in Plymouth, shining the hope of Christ into our community. Through worship, transformed lives, and compassionate outreach, we share His love and bring renewal to our city. VALUES We have values to guide our members' behaviour, shape our culture, and ensure alignment with our mission and vision. Hungry We seek to know and experience more of God through prayer, worship, and the Bible. We long to grow deeper in faith, seeking spiritual transformation and relying on the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Our hunger fuels our commitment to heartfelt worship, persistent prayer, and a life of service. Humble We acknowledge that all strength and blessing are gifts from God, rooted in the grace of Jesus, our servant King. Humility shapes us to be quick to listen and patient, allowing us to respond with empathy and wisdom, especially as a trauma-informed community. We welcome discussion, seek to serve one another, and keep our focus on Christ, enabling us to truly be a light to the city. Hopeful We seek to be a people of hope, rooted in the promises of God and the resurrection of Jesus. We believe in His power to bring transformation. Our hope leads us to be forward-looking, courageous in prayer, and bold in sharing the good news of Christ. Holy We seek to reflect the holiness of God, as revealed in the Bible, in every aspect of our lives as a royal priesthood. Set apart for His purposes. Meditating on and studying the Bible, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we pursue lives of holiness, both individually and as a community. 7 Priorities Our priorities exist to fulfill our core purpose and vision. These priorities guide the church's activities, resource allocation and overall direction; ensuring we effectively serve our members and the wider community. 1: Growing Disciples The best thing anyone can do is become a disciple of Jesus, the light of the world. We aim to grow in breadth and depth.We aim to welcome 50 new people to faith, or reaffirmation of faith. Home-groups and prayer triplets grow from 100 to 150 and are flourishing. We aim to establish a mentoring program. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19) 2: Pastoral Care We aim to establish a structured pastoral care programme that nurtures the spiritual, emotional and physical well-being of every individual. As we grow we want to ensure we continue to provide compassionate and holistic support that fosters a sense of belonging and spiritual well-being within our church community. "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2) 3: Children We want to engage younger by reaching children and supporting their parents, carers and teachers. We aim to double the number of children who worship at Emmanuel. Raising children in our culture is hard and we want to support all those that play a role in raising children. "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6) 4: Young People We want to engage younger and triple the number of youth who worship and are growing in their discipleship at Emmanuel, reaching out into schools and uniform groups. Engaging with young people during their formative years, through relevant and inspiring Jesus centred ministry helps them navigate life's challenges as committed faithful followers of Jesus. Young people are the leaders of today, not just tomorrow. "How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word." (Psalm 119:9) 5: Young Adults This is our smallest demographic in the church, but the biggest within walking distance of our building. We aim to establish three young adult homes groups. Young adults set the culture of the world around them and we want to help disciple them into Christ-centred maturity to be a light to the city. "Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12) 6: Seeking the Welfare of the City We aim to discover a theology of God’s mission centred on the common good, discerning and participating in God's work within the city of Plymouth, and establishing a unified approach to urban welfare with three key projects. We will also learn and discover from global Christian communities to enhance our efforts and partner with a project in a global South city facing similar challenges of urban welfare. ‘Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” (Jer 29:7). 7: Trauma-Informed Church Working in partnership with others we aim to discover what is is to be a trauma informed church by 2026 and to have developed new and expanding existing ministries as a compassionate response. The impact of COVID and the challenges of consumerism and individualism means there is a lot of trauma, loneliness and darkness in our communities. We want to shine the light of hope in our fast-changing world. "The LORD is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18)