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This sermon, part of the  Cut Flower  series on the decline of European Christianity, explores how the power of the Holy Spirit releases the life of Jesus into the world and offers a hopeful alternative to today’s divided society. Using David Goodhart’s distinction between “anywheres” and “somewheres,” +Tim reframes these groups positively as “seekers” (those shaped by mobility, education, and career) and “dwellers” (those rooted in place, relationships, and community). Rather than being in conflict, both are invited into God’s mission. Drawing on Acts 1, the sermon highlights Jesus’ vision of a global movement: believers are called to be witnesses from their local context to the ends of the earth. This “Ephesian momentum” describes the spread of the kingdom of God through the Holy Spirit, bringing together diverse peoples and cultures. Whether people stay local or move globally, all can participate in this Spirit-led mission. +Tim reflects on the history of Christianity in Europe, tracing its journey from early Jewish roots to Greek and Latin forms, through Christendom, the Reformation, and eventual secularization. European Christianity became “territorial,” assuming that the kingdom of God could be tied to geography, political power, and institutions. This model ultimately limited the church’s vitality. In contrast, the modern missionary movement rediscovered a more dynamic and relational faith, though it was often misunderstood and entangled with colonialism. Through engagement with other cultures—especially in Africa—Christianity was reshaped and renewed. African Christianity, in particular, has grown rapidly by engaging deeply with local cultures and spiritual worldviews, leading to one of the most vibrant expressions of faith today. The sermon emphasizes that Western Christianity now has much to learn from global Christianity. The anticipated visit of Kenyan Christians is presented as an opportunity for mutual learning and self-reflection. By seeing ourselves through the eyes of others, we may recognize weaknesses and rediscover a more authentic, Spirit-filled faith. As an African proverb suggests, “only the stranger can see the leak in your roof.” A key theme is that mission is not about controlling territory or imposing beliefs, but about embodying the kingdom of God in different cultural contexts. Christianity spreads like a network—adaptable, relational, and rooted in local realities. The church does not equal the kingdom but serves as a witness to it. The sermon also highlights the importance of engaging with “primal” spiritual longings—deep human desires for meaning, identity, and connection with God. True conversion involves the whole of life, not just personal belief, and requires demonstrating faith in lived, relational ways. The conclusion calls for a renewed vision of mission that combines local commitment with global awareness. Practically, this includes serving local communities while also engaging across cultures. The hope is that through humility, openness, and the work of the Holy Spirit, Western Christianity can experience renewal and rediscover its place within the wider movement of world Christianity.

It could be you, a relative, or a friend who one day finds themselves living in a care home. At our next Community Café, we’re pleased to welcome Angela Sayer, manager of Greenacres Care Home, along with her deputy. Angela is dedicated to helping residents enjoy a good quality of life—physically, emotionally, and socially. She works hard to keep people connected to the wider community and cares deeply about their wellbeing. Do come along to hear her speak—you may find it both reassuring and inspiring. As we grow older, life can bring both challenges and opportunities. While later life can involve increasing frailty, it can also be a time of reflection, wisdom, and meaningful connection. It’s important that older people are treated with dignity, respect, and care, and that they continue to feel valued and included. With this in mind, a small team from Emmanuel regularly visits local care homes. We spend time with residents, offering friendly conversation, music, and short, gentle gatherings for those who would like to take part. We currently visit six homes in the local area—some twice a month and others once—making around nine visits each month. We are always mindful that we are entering people’s homes. We visit only at the invitation of the care home managers, and residents are free to join us or not, as they choose. Sometimes a member of staff helps introduce us and support the time we spend together. When we first began, some residents were understandably unsure about us. But over time, many have become more comfortable, often greeting us warmly and thanking us as we leave. New faces can still take a little getting used to, which is only natural—trust builds gradually, especially when so much in life has changed. So why do we go? Quite simply, to spend time with people, to listen, and to offer companionship and encouragement. For those who are interested, we also share something of the hope and comfort that faith can bring, especially in later life. We next meet in church on Saturday 11th April at 10.30am . Why not come along and find out more?

A space for encounter, restoration and mission Monday 30 th  March to Friday 3 rd April: 6am to 10pm Our prayer room, The Well, will reopen for the week before Easter, situated in the Oval Room at Emmanuel, accessible through the sliding glass doors. How can I take part? By spending an hour alone with God at The Well, engaging with a creative interactive prayer journey based on events of the day before the crucifixion  How can I book a timeslot? 60+ timeslots of 1 hour in The Well are bookable via the church app. Can I bring a guest to my timeslot?  Yes, but bear in mind that The Well is designed for individual prayer and response with privacy. Can I pray at night too? Yes, the night hours from 10pm to 6am are also bookable, as commitments to spend time in prayer at home when The Well is closed. Resources will be available via the Church app.  How is The Well open to everyone? From 11am to 1pm each day, The Well will be open for use by anyone. There is no guarantee of privacy or silence during these two hours. I don’t have an hour to spare. How can I join in?  By praying wherever and whenever you can, using the resources that will be on the app, and/or by visiting The Well at Emmanuel any time between 11am and 1pm for shared use, without needing to book. Will there be an extended worship evening? On Thursday 2nd April, there will be a 7pm communion service in church with foot washing, followed by 2 hours of prayer and worship together in the prayer room, Worship@TheWell, from 8pm to 10pm. If I have time, how can I prepare for my timeslot? Preparation isn't essential or expected. If you have time, you may want to read John 13 & 14 and Matthew 26.   Last time in The Well, people encountered peace, joy, emotional healing and a renewed desire to share Jesus with friends and neighbours. Here’s a reminder of feedback from those who came: Trust him for everything because he is faithful. Release of emotions, letting go of past trauma. So much to take away. An oasis of peace, a wonderful hour with Christ. A wonderful time of allowing the Lord to speak to my heart. Would have loved to stay longer. A real feeling of renewing an acquaintance. A chance to let my burdens go. Great feeling of lightness now. Time with him. Went too quickly. Nothing in us is hidden to the Lord. Let your Spirit come. May we have the joy of the woman at the well to share you with others. It is such a blessing to be with Jesus. What a joy to be with the Lord and experience the peace and joy of his presence.  Please saturate me with your Holy Spirit. May I sprinkle your living water on everyone I meet. Challenged to be hungry to do what God wants, to be thirsty for more of him. To spend more time with Jesus like this, not just fitting him into my life as and when. May I be filled deeply with joy and streams of living water and to share more abundantly with those I meet. Thank you for reigniting my passion to bring loved ones to the foot of the cross. I speak the name of Jesus over them all. An hour of peace and communication with the Spirit. I broke out in tongues several times, Alleluia.  I will leave refreshed and inspired. Such a blessing, I could have spent much longer here. One thing that struck me: ‘his worshippers must worship in the Spirit and truth’. I could spend two hours here and still get more out of it.  An hour is not enough time to take in everything here. I will create my own well and go over everything in slow time.  What an amazing time. I could have taken several hours to go through the process. It is amazing. The Lord showed me that I was in a safe place to reveal a deep hurt, and I know he was listening and will address it.  I didn’t expect this hour to have such a profound effect on me. Thank you for this amazing opportunity. The Lord reminded me that my anxieties stem from spiritual thirst. I need to spend time at the well with Jesus more often. I have loved this experience. It is precious.  A wonderful time of peace and reflection. I feel safe and seen. A joy to take time to encounter God. I learned more about our relationship and what I need to do to continue my journey with him. A lovely time to sit and just be with the Lord. I am very thankful.  A valuable hour. I could have used more time. A blessing. I have been challenged to pray for those attending Christmas services that eyes may be opened to see and recognise Jesus as the Samaritan woman did. I felt the presence of Jesus. I was very tearful. I felt forgiven and peaceful.  Time for tears, hopefully seeing Jesus’ love more clearly. What a blessing. I could have stayed all day. A haven of peace. The Lord who loves me just as I am has shown me what I can be.  Good to spend quiet time reflecting on God’s goodness and faithfulness.  The Lord has shown me my deepest anxiety and lifted it from my shoulders onto his. A space for peace and healing, refreshing the soul and sending us out with new humility, hunger and hope in Jesus.

VACANCIES OPERATIONS MANAGER We’re looking for an Operations Manager to help lead and strengthen the day-to-day running of Emmanuel Church in this season of growth. This role is all about creating the systems, structures, and environments that enable our ministries, teams, and buildings to thrive. Working closely with the Rector and staff team, you’ll oversee operations, facilities, and key processes — helping us serve our church and city with excellence, clarity, and care. Hours: 22.5 hours/week Salary: £30k - £35k pro rata Applications Close: 1st May 2026 Interviews Commence: 7th May 2026 For an informal chat or more information email peter.shaw@emmanuelplymouth.co.uk recruitment@emmanuelplymouth.co.uk To apply, please complete the application form below. If you don’t have a Google account and are unable to access the form, please get in touch. Job Description Application Form Parish Profile Work with us At Emmanuel, we’re passionate about serving our city, growing disciples of Jesus, and creating spaces where people of all ages can encounter God and belong in community. Our staff team and volunteers work together across worship, children and youth ministry, pastoral care, community outreach, and the life of the parish. We’re always looking for people who share our heart for the church and for Plymouth. If we aren't advertising a role which fits your skill set please drop us an email with you CV and Cover Letter and we will bare you in mind when future opportunities arise. -> recruitment@emmanuelplymouth.co.uk Parish Profile

Emmanuel Church, Plymouth. A light for the city. Join us for worship and community. 👋 HELLO new here? Gatherings Visit Us What's on Easter A light for the City 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. vision The cut flower Rooting a Fading West Each week explores the spiritual disciplines that root us again in Christ, restoring depth, resilience, and hope in a fading culture. sermon series our gatherings Join us on Sundays and Throughout the Week for various gatherings. We would love to meet you. Click below for more information about when and where we gather. more info It could be you ... It could be you, a relative, or a friend who one day finds themselves living in a care home. At our next Community Café, we’re pleased to welcome Angela Sayer, manager of Greenacres Care Home, along with her deputy. Angela is dedicated to helping residents enjoy a good quality of life—physically, emotionally, and socially. She works hard to keep people connected to the wider community and cares deeply about their wellbeing. Do come along to hear her speak—you may find it both Linda Wheeler Apr 1 2 min read Eco Tips #2 We all use them everyday but have you ever really thought about what they are made of? I certainly hadn’t. A couple of years ago a friend gave me a ‘ Who Gives a Crap ’ bamboo toilet roll to ‘try’.The quality and effectiveness were as good as what I was normally using, but apart from that it was a loo roll in the end! I decided to do some research. Everyday 1 million trees are cut down to make regular toilet paper. Using bamboo is more environmentally sustainable. It is reg Debbie Houston Mar 25 2 min read The Well at Emmanuel A space for encounter, restoration and mission Monday 30 th March to Friday 3 rd April: 6am to 10pm Our prayer room, The Well, will reopen for the week before Easter, situated in the Oval Room at Emmanuel, accessible through the sliding glass doors. How can I take part? By spending an hour alone with God at The Well, engaging with a creative interactive prayer journey based on events of the day before the crucifixion How can I book a timeslot? 60+ timeslots of 1 hour in Th Robin Brown Mar 4 4 min read more posts SIGN UP Scan to download our Church Centre App to get the most out of Emmanuel

OUR GATHERINGS Join us every Sunday and Wednesday at Emmanuel for worship, teaching, and a welcoming church community. Our gatherings are open to all — whether you are exploring faith, returning to church, or looking for a place to call home. We would love to welcome you. SUNDAYS 8am - Book of Common Prayer Gathering Join us for a Short Traditional Book of Common Prayer Service. This Service typically Lasts 45 minutes. 10:30am - Morning Gathering Join us for a relaxed, family focused service with Holy Communion on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the Month. Children’s ad Youth Groups are on during this service for those aged 0-14. This service is followed by refreshments and time in community.This service typically lasts 1.5 hours. 6:30pm - Evening Gathering Join us for a relaxed and welcoming time of worship, prayer and listening to God’s Word, with space to reflect and respond. This service is followed by refreshments and time in community. This service normally lasts 1.5 hours. WEDNESDAYS About 10:30am - Morning Gathering Join us for a midweek Communion service with a short sermon with space and time to pause, reflect and reconnect. This service is followed by refreshments and time in community. This service typically lasts 1 hour. Where to find us Recent Sermons Morning Sermon Videos Morning Sermon Audios Evening Sermon Audios