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For many people, the word trauma  conjures up images of obvious wounds: a soldier returning from war, a survivor of a devastating accident, or someone who has endured public tragedy. But not all scars are visible, and not all traumas are spoken aloud. Across our communities, countless individuals carry private burdens that remain unseen, unheard, and often misunderstood. Personal trauma does not always announce itself. It can reside quietly within a person for years, shaping the way they think, feel, and relate to others. Childhood neglect, the sudden loss of a loved one, the pain of a broken relationship, or even the accumulated weight of small, repeated humiliations—all can leave deep marks. Yet because they are not easily explained, or perhaps not deemed “serious enough” by others, these experiences are often hidden. Experts suggest that the silence surrounding trauma is one of the most damaging aspects of recovery. “People frequently minimise their pain because they fear being judged or dismissed,” explains Dr. Aisha Clarke, a clinical psychologist. “This silence isolates them further and makes healing much harder.” In everyday life, we may encounter friends, neighbours, or colleagues who appear composed, cheerful, or successful, but who are quietly wrestling with memories or feelings that never fully leave them. Their struggles may emerge only in fleeting ways—difficulty sleeping, irritability, or avoiding certain situations. Because such signs are subtle, they often go unnoticed. The hidden nature of trauma also has wider social implications. Unaddressed, it can affect relationships, workplace productivity, and community life. A society that overlooks personal pain risks perpetuating cycles of misunderstanding and loneliness. Encouragingly, conversations about mental health are becoming more open. Campaigns in schools, workplaces, and churches are helping to dismantle stigma. But real change begins with listening—not only to those who feel able to share their stories, but also to the silences that suggest something unspoken. Trauma may be hidden, but its effects are real. By fostering compassion and gentleness in our daily interactions, we can create spaces where people feel safe to bring what is hidden into the light. After all, the burdens we cannot see are often the heaviest. If some of this resonates with you, please reach out. We are here to listen.

Immigration has become one of the most pressing and divisive issues of our time. Across communities, people feel deep anxiety about change: shifting demographics, evolving cultures, and the sense that the world they once knew is slipping away. As someone who grew up in a historically white, working-class community, I understand those tensions. My great-grandfather worked in a wallpaper factory on a local estate; my grandmother and mother both made their homes there too. This place became my childhood world. At one point, my estate was the most densely populated area for Polish people outside of Warsaw. Even our family dog was bilingual, trained to sit, stay and lie down in both English and Polish after too many adventures in the neighbours’ gardens. Later, in primary school, I remember clashing with a Somali refugee classmate, she stole my peanut butter sandwich and I lashed out. Looking back, I realise those childhood moments reflect the larger struggles of adjusting to change, of learning how to live together when different cultures collide. The Cross of Saint George or the Cross of Christ? In recent years, I’ve noticed a growing trend in response to immigration anxieties: people waving the Cross of Saint George, painting it on roundabouts and signposts as a symbol of Englishness. But as a Christian, I find this deeply challenging. The cross isn’t a political banner. The Cross of Saint George recalls his martyrdom for his faith. And ultimately, it echoes the greater cross of Jesus Christ, where he bore sin, shame and guilt so that we might have hope. The gospel calls us to more than tribal identity. It calls us to love our neighbours as ourselves, to take up our cross daily in service to others and to embody the radical hospitality of Christ. The challenge for all of us This isn’t just a word for one side of the immigration debate, it’s a challenge for everyone. For those anxious about cultural change, the cross asks: What do you have, and how can you use it to serve others?  Even if it’s just two copper coins, the question isn’t about scarcity, but about generosity. For those on the other side, the cross also challenges our entitlement. Our culture often tells us we deserve a certain standard of living, whether in housing, healthcare, or education. Yet the gospel invites us to gratitude, not entitlement. To thankfulness for what we have in Jesus, and to a posture of giving rather than demanding. A path toward unity If both sides of the immigration conversation took this to heart, something remarkable could happen. Instead of clinging to entitlement or fear, we could unite around the mindset of service, humility, and love. Immigration doesn’t have to divide us. The cross of Christ, far greater than any national symbol, can remind us that our identity is not found in what we fear losing, but in the hope we’ve been given. And from that hope, we are called to serve, to bless, and to love our neighbours, whether they’ve lived here for generations or just arrived yesterday.

For those who attended Sir Ghillean’s talk, you heard the mention of Emmanuel being part of the A Rocha Eco Church movement and how God has instructed us to be responsible stewards of our planet. I am pleased to share that behind the scenes, a lot has been accomplished. We have registered as an Eco Church, undertaken a survey, and are making good progress. However, we now need your help as we plan to apply for the Bronze Award and move on to the Silver Award. Two of the five models of Eco Church focus on engaging you, the congregation, and our community. This involves not only raising awareness of the climate crisis but also highlighting what we as a church and you as individuals can do to help. Some of these tasks are very simple, while others require more thought and effort. The other models are Worship and Teaching, Buildings and Energy and Land and Nature The support from Eco Church is fantastic, offering many helpful tips on what to do. All we need now is your help to implement these tips and complete the necessary tasks. I am looking to lead the Emmanuel Eco Church group to explain where we are, what resources are available, and what tasks you can do to help. Remember, many hands make light work. All are welcome and all will be explained. Please add the following date to your diary: Monday 15th September  at 7.30pm  in the Oval Room. Thank you. Mark Bullard

Prayer is at the heart of what it means to be a Christian. It is far more than words we say at set times in church; prayer is our living connection with God, a way of keeping company with Him in the midst of everyday life. Just as we need to talk and listen to those we love in order to deepen our relationships, so too with God. Prayer is that conversation. It is not about using the “right” words, but about being open and honest before the One who knows us best. In prayer, we draw close to God, and He draws close to us. Prayer is a chance to lift our eyes from the busyness of life and remember God’s goodness. Whether we whisper a quick “thank you” for a blessing, or pause in silence to praise His greatness, prayer turns our hearts to worship. Gratitude in prayer keeps us mindful that all we have and all we are is a gift from God. Prayer shapes us. Over time, as we bring our joys and struggles to God, we find ourselves being changed. We become more patient, more forgiving, more trusting. Prayer doesn’t just influence the world around us—it softens our hearts and helps us to see with God’s eyes. One of the most loving things we can do is to pray for someone else. When we hold others before God in prayer—family, friends, our church, even strangers—we are sharing in Christ’s own ministry of intercession. Prayer is one way in which we care for others and carry their burdens. Life is not without its trials, and there are seasons when worries, grief, or loneliness weigh heavily upon us. In these moments, prayer can be a lifeline. The Bible reminds us that God’s peace, which is “beyond understanding,” will guard our hearts (Philippians 4:7) . Prayer reminds us we are never alone. Prayer does not have to be complicated or lengthy. It might be as simple as a whispered “Lord, help me” while waiting for the bus, or a few quiet minutes at the end of the day. The important thing is to keep the habit, to make prayer as natural as breathing. Prayer is not a duty we must perform, but a gift God offers us: an invitation to walk closely with Him each day. It brings comfort, strength, and joy. Above all, it keeps us rooted in the love of Christ.

One of the greatest gifts God has given us as a church family is each other . Every one of us carries a unique story of how the Lord has worked in our lives, through seasons of joy, challenge, healing and transformation. When we share those stories, we don’t just speak words; we plant seeds of hope, encouragement and faith in the lives of others. At Emmanuel we have a great community with a wide range of experiences and these experiences deserve to be shared to give hope to others. We want to celebrate the incredible ways God is moving in our community. And to do that, we need your voice. Why testimonies matter Scripture reminds us that “we will overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony”  (Revelation 12:11). Our testimonies are not just personal, they are powerful tools God uses to remind others that He is faithful and near. What might feel ordinary to you could be exactly what someone else needs to hear. How you can participate We’re inviting every member of our church to share a testimony—big or small. Maybe it’s a moment when God provided in a time of need, or how you experienced His peace during uncertainty, or even how being part of this community has strengthened your walk with Him. You can: Write your story and send it in for the website Be filmed for a short video of your testimony Speak at an upcoming service or small group gathering A celebration of community As we gather these stories, we’ll be weaving together a tapestry of God’s goodness, one that reminds us all of His presence in our daily lives and His work in our church. Together, we can celebrate what He has done, what He is doing and what He will continue to do among us. So, we invite you: take a moment, reflect on your journey and share your testimony. Your story matters, because it points back to the One who is the author of them all. How to share: If you'd like to share a story please get in touch with Oli Horne on oli.horne@emmanuelplymouth.co.uk

The moment you see your results, a rush of emotions can hit all at once, relief, joy, disappointment and / or confusion. For some, it’s the fulfilment of months of hard work. For others, it’s the sting of unmet expectations. A-Level results day can leave you feeling on top of the world, questioning everything or somewhere in between. From a Christian perspective, these moments are not just about academic achievement, they’re opportunities to remember where our identity, hope and security truly lie. 1. Your results are not your worth In a culture that measures success by grades, jobs and salaries, it’s easy to believe your value depends on what you achieve. But Scripture paints a very different picture. "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb." (Psalm 139:13) God’s love for you was set before you sat a single exam. Whether your results are top marks or not, your worth is anchored in the unchanging truth that you are a child of God, made in His image.   2. God’s plans are bigger than your grades Disappointment often comes from the clash between our plans and reality. But the Bible reminds us: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) This doesn’t mean every step will be smooth. Sometimes God’s “prosperity” looks very different from what we imagined. But His plans are never derailed by an exam paper. History is full of people who didn’t get the path they expected, yet found themselves in places where God used them powerfully.   3. Uncertainty is an invitation to trust When you don’t know what comes next, whether it’s clearing, gap years or a change of direction, uncertainty can feel like a threat. But for the Christian, it’s also an invitation. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5–6) As Christians, we hold a unique posture amid uncertainty: we know who is ultimately in control. While the world demands a perfect, colour-coded plan for our lives, God invites us into something more authentic and often more fulfilling. When you can’t envision how anything good could emerge from disrupted plans, it is the stories of others, those in Scripture and around you, that will help you persevere. Let trusted friends, family and leaders speak hope into your next chapter. Maybe your future looks unfamiliar, starting university without anyone you know, making alternate plans through clearing, planning a gap year or internship, or simply waiting to sense what God is guiding next. And yet, even when the world pushes us to have every step mapped, God’s invitation stands firm. This week, remember who God declares you to be: a loved, valued, cherished child of the Creator. That truth stands firm, regardless of your results, achievements, comparisons, others' opinions or your own doubts. So rejoice in how far you’ve come. With thankfulness, reflect on what lies ahead. And above all, hope. Even when the future is unclear, God holds it, along with you, every step of the way. 4. Gratitude in every outcome It might sound counterintuitive to give thanks if your results aren’t what you wanted, but gratitude shifts our perspective from what we lack to what God has already given. Every skill you developed, every challenge you overcame, every lesson you learned along the way is still yours. Gratitude also helps us see that God’s blessings aren’t limited to one moment or one measure of success. Even in seasons that feel disappointing, there may be hidden gifts, resilience you didn’t know you had, friendships forged in shared struggle, or new opportunities you wouldn’t have considered otherwise. Giving thanks doesn’t mean pretending everything is perfect; it means choosing to trust that God is at work in ways you might not yet see. 5. Walking with others through their results For those celebrating, rejoice with them wholeheartedly. For those facing disappointment, sit with them in their pain without rushing to “fix” it. Sometimes the best ministry is presence, reminding them by your care that God has not abandoned them. Be intentional about listening more than speaking, and pray with them, not just for a change in circumstances, but for peace, courage and clarity for the journey ahead. Sometimes God uses our willingness to stand alongside someone in their uncertainty as a living picture of His steadfast love. Your compassion today could be the reminder they need that they are not walking this path alone. A prayer for results day Lord, Thank You for walking with me through these past years of study. Whether my results are better, worse, or different than I hoped, help me to remember my worth in You. Guide me in the days ahead, open the right doors, and give me peace in the waiting. Amen. Whatever your results says today, it’s not the final word over your life. The truest result was already written in eternity, you are loved, chosen, and called by God.

August at Emmanuel often feels different. The pace slows. Many families take time away, meetings pause, and even our usually bustling calendar thins out. At first, it can feel like a lull in the life of the church, a quiet month sandwiched between summer events and the busy September restart. But what if this “slowing down” isn’t an absence of ministry, but a gift from God? The Bible speaks often about rest. In Genesis 2:2–3 , God Himself set the pattern: “By the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on the seventh day He rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy…” Rest was not an afterthought, it was part of the rhythm of creation. Later, in Exodus 20:8–11 , God commanded His people to “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” This was not merely a rule to follow, but an invitation to trust Him. To pause. To recognise that we are not sustained by our endless activity, but by His unending provision. In our busy modern lives, August can function like a Sabbath month. Yes, things may look quieter at Emmanuel, fewer meetings, fewer events but this is not spiritual idleness. This is space to breathe, to pray, to reflect on what God has done, and to prepare our hearts for what is to come. Even Jesus, in the midst of ministry, would withdraw to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16). So, as we step half way into this rest period: Let’s take time to enjoy God’s creation. Let’s open His Word without the rush of schedules. Let’s pray for our community and the season ahead. And let’s remember that slowing down is not stepping back from God — it is stepping deeper into His presence. May the rest of August be a holy pause for Emmanuel, a time to be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10). And may we return in September renewed, ready to serve with joy and strength.

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32 What a week it has been. This summer, our church became a launch site for one of the most exciting and joy-filled Holiday Clubs we have ever hosted. With stars, planets, astronauts, and space dust decorating the building, we set off on a journey across the galaxies and into the heart of God’s truth. Over five unforgettable days, 103 children, four little ones in the crèche, and eight fantastic teenagers joined us for our space-themed adventure. From the moment the children walked through the doors with eyes wide and faces lit up, the excitement was contagious. Each room had been transformed into a different corner of the galaxy, lovingly prepared by volunteers who had been working for weeks. Space stations, control panels, hanging planets, and glowing stars all came together to create a vibrant world of wonder and learning. But more than the rocket ships and shiny decorations, it was the message behind the week that truly mattered. Rooted in John chapter eight, verse thirty-two, everything we did pointed back to one truth: that knowing Jesus brings true freedom. This simple and powerful idea came alive through storytelling, games, songs, crafts, and conversations. Children learned how Jesus frees us from fear, from lies, from loneliness, and from the pressure to be anything other than who He created us to be. Each morning began with high energy gathering that combined hilarious drama sketches, storytelling and worship songs that were impossible not to sing along with. The children danced, laughed, listened and reflected deeply, many for the first time, about who Jesus is and how His truth changes everything. Small group times gave room for connection, where volunteers listened with patience, answered thoughtful questions and reminded each child that they are fully known and deeply loved by God. Creativity was everywhere. The crafts tables turned into miniature universes, with children making everything from rockets and galaxy jars to aliens. Outside, laughter echoed as groups raced through obstacle courses and teamed up for cooperative games. Every activity was thoughtfully planned not just for fun, but to create moments that point back to the love of Jesus. An important part of the week was our Breakfast and Lunch Club, where around forty children and families gathered each day to share food and time together. These meals were about more than nourishment. They became spaces of welcome, warmth and conversation, where the church became more than a building and more like home. Behind all of this was an incredible team of 69 volunteers contributing over 3,000 hours to delivering the holiday club. From leading groups to preparing food, running sound, playing music, acting, cleaning up and offering prayer they poured their hearts into this ministry. Their service, joy and care created a space where children felt safe, seen and celebrated. The teenagers who served alongside them were equally amazing, bringing passion, leadership, and genuine connection with the younger children. To every parent who entrusted us with your child, thank you. To every volunteer who gave their time and energy, even when it meant glitter in the carpet and tired feet by Friday, thank you. And to God, who made this all possible and continues to speak truth and freedom into every life, we give all the glory. As we pack away the planets and sweep up the final bits of stardust, one thing remains. The truth of Jesus sets us free. And that truth travels with every child who walked through our doors this week. Our rockets may have landed, but the journey is only just beginning.

This summer three families from Emmanuel Church made the journey to West Sussex to take part in Wildfires Festival , a dynamic, Spirit-filled Christian gathering of over 5,000 people set on the beautiful grounds of the Wiston Estate. Fully loaded for camping, tents flapping in the wind, wellies at the ready. Through the fun of camping and connecting one thing became clear: God was moving and we are at an exciting time of growth in Christianity. Wildfires isn’t just another church weekend away. It’s a rich, multi-generational gathering of believers from across the globe, uniting under one vision: to seek God’s presence and carry His fire back into our churches and communities. The festival offered something for everyone, from families with toddlers to teenagers exploring faith, from new believers to seasoned leaders. It was remarkable to see the scale of young people coming to Jesus to find meaning. Mornings began in the Big Top, where thousands gathered for powerful worship led by gifted musicians from around the country. The music wasn’t a performance, it was a call to go deeper. Songs ranged from joyful celebration to moments of awe-filled stillness. These times of worship were deeply personal, spaces to surrender burdens, hear God’s voice, and receive fresh vision. And it wasn’t just the music that stirred hearts. Wildfires brought together some of the world’s leading Christian thinkers and speakers; men and women who are shaping the global Church with wisdom, humility, and a prophetic edge. Attendees heard from voices speaking truth into today’s culture, justice movements, spiritual formation, and revival. Whether it was a main stage message or a smaller seminar tucked away in a tent, there were moments when the Holy Spirit pierced through confusion and brought clarity, conviction, and hope. It wasn’t uncommon to see people scribbling notes, eyes wide or sitting quietly in reflection long after a session had ended. For Emmanuel's children, Wildfires was an open door into something exciting and deeply spiritual. The kids’ programme was bursting with creativity, fun and gospel truth tailored perfectly for young minds. Parents often found their little ones retelling Bible stories or singing worship songs long after the sessions had finished. Afternoons were filled with Labs, interactive, practical seminars that explored topics like prayer, parenting, spiritual disciplines, evangelism, and creativity. Many from Emmanuel found these sessions just as impactful as the main stage. Some were challenged to think differently about how they live out their faith. Others discovered new ways of engaging with God in everyday life. Every evening, as the sun dipped behind the hills and families returned from their sessions, the community would gather around firepits. This was where stories were shared, testimonies told and songs gently rose into the night air. Children ran around with torches and marshmallows, teens talked late into the night, and parents sat back, tired but grateful. You don't have to camp, if that isn't your thing Many attendees opted not to camp but instead embraced a more comfortable approach by staying in nearby accommodation, hotels, guesthouses, and AirBnBs dotted around West Sussex. These day visitors travelled in each morning, arriving fresh and well-rested, ready to dive into the worship, teaching, and community life at Wildfires. This flexible option made the festival more accessible for those with health considerations or simply a preference for a warm shower and a real bed. Despite not sleeping on-site, day visitors found themselves just as immersed in the experience, sharing meals, staying late for evening firepit worship and taking part in sessions and seminars alongside campers. It was a reminder that you don’t have to pitch a tent to fully participate in what God is doing. As the final day came and tents were folded away or final coffees were sipped before the drive home, there was a collective sense that something profound had happened. God had met His people. Not just in the mountaintop moments of worship or the wisdom of world-class speakers—but in the muddy shoes, the sleepy morning walks, the hugs, the firelight, and the quiet prayers whispered between friends. Something is happening Adding to the sense that something spiritually significant was happening, the festival drew national media attention. The News Agents  podcast (5th most listened to podcast in UK) visited Wildfires to explore what they described as a remarkable rebirth in belief in God across the UK, capturing the energy, diversity, and sincerity of those gathering to worship in a field (this to the show here) . Their presence and the conversations they had with both leaders and ordinary attendees, highlighted a growing cultural interest in faith, especially among younger generations. Then, on the very day the we packed up to head home, the Sunday Express  published a front-page article declaring a “ return to church ” across the nation, as more people are rediscovering Christian faith in turbulent times. For those leaving Wildfires with hearts stirred and hope renewed, it felt like a timely confirmation: we’re part of something bigger than just a festival,God is moving. Wildfires reminded the Emmanuel Church Plymouth community that faith isn’t something we carry alone. We walk together—young and old, campers and day visitors, musicians and listeners, questioners and worshippers. And whether we stayed for five days or came for just one, the fire God lit in our hearts is one we carry home. Because the goal of Wildfires isn’t just inspiration. It’s ignition and the fire doesn’t end when the festival does. It spreads. Next year Wildfires will be: 23rd – 26th July 2026 Wiston Estate, West Sussex, UK To find out more what it's like speak to Peter, Steph, Jess or Oli

This August, Emmanuel Church in Plymouth invites you into a season of intentional stillness, reflection, and spiritual renewal through our summer teaching series, Be Still. 🚨 Sunday evenings at 6:30pm (instead of the Sunday evening service) ⏰ Starting August the 3rd, running for 5 weeks until the 31st August. 📍 In the Oval room at Emmanuel In a culture of hurry, noise, and distraction, the words of Psalm 46:10— “Be still, and know that I am God” —resonate with deep relevance. This series is a timely call to pause, breathe, and realign our lives with God’s presence and purposes. Why “Be Still”? We live in a world where being busy is worn like a badge of honour, and rest can feel like a luxury rather than a necessity. The Be Still  series invites us to challenge that mindset by exploring what it means to truly slow down and live from a place of peace and presence. Throughout August, we’ll explore themes such as: Session 1: 3rd - Encounter In the first session of the Be Still series, we’ll explore the importance of encountering God in the quiet time. Session 2: 10th - Scripture In this session, we’ll unpack the significance of the Bible and how we can use, learn and memorise the word of God in our quiet time. Session 3: 17th - Wonder In this session, we’ll explore how practising wonder and using our imagination in our quiet time can help us to discover more of God’s presence. Session 4: 24th - Hiddenness In this session, we’ll tackle the challenges of persevering and hiddenness in our daily time with God, and how they can help us to grow in faith. Session 5: 31st - Mission In our final session of the Be Still series, we’ll think about how our quiet time can prepare us to share our faith in Jesus with the world. Each week’s message will be rooted in Scripture, drawing wisdom from the life of Jesus and the ancient practices of silence, solitude, and prayer. It’s not about withdrawing from life, but about learning how to be fully present in it, with God at the centre. An Invitation for Everyone Whether you’ve been part of Emmanuel Church for years or you’re just beginning to explore faith, the Be Still  series is for you. Come as you are, tired, busy, curious, or seeking and discover the gift of stillness in God’s presence. Join us every Sunday in August at Emmanuel Church, as we create space to listen, reflect, and be renewed. There will also be opportunities during the week for prayer, personal retreat, and creative ways to deepen what God is speaking to you. Be still, not as a command to stop everything, but as an invitation to encounter the One who holds everything.

I was nudged in my side by my wife in a church pew at a Sunday service, “you should do that”. She was encouraging me to attend Alpha through the church after seeing it on the screen. Jess was one of the many people that had nudged me in the past 6 months to look a bit closer at my faith and beliefs. If I’ve learnt anything in our relationship together, it is to listen to my wife and I often need strong encouragement. So, I signed up to Alpha, not sure what to expect, but went with an open mind and the vague feeling I was going to be bible bashed and told what to believe. What I found from joining a weekly meeting was a group of people seeking meaning, with big questions, all being explored in a tired church hall on a Tuesday evening in Plymouth. The welcome I felt each week was powerful and warm, feeling that I belonged and was safe to ask the questions that have itched me for many years and I have refused to look at. I found that each week I looked forward to the session and left each session with a lot of questions to ponder throughout the week. On the first evening we were asked one question to explore - If Gods existence was proven to be undeniably true, what one question would you ask them? Many were able to give such prompt answers – what’s the meaning of life? what’s it all about? why did this and that happen? To this day, 6 months later, I am still stuck on what to ask. 1 question. How can I boil everything down to one question. I can come up with hundreds. I often find myself pondering the question at completely random times. The fact that we were only allowed one has been a great thought provoker and I hope one day to tell the leader of Alpha what my question will be. This in a way summed up Alpha for me, better questions than answers and enjoying the journey.   Alpha didn’t feel like your typical course, with expected outcomes a certificate and something to put on my LinkedIn at the end. It didn’t come at me with pressure or prepackaged answers. It felt more like being invited into a conversation than a classroom. Each week, we gathered with a nice bite to eat, which made it feel more like a family meal than a meeting, watched a short talk, and then talked openly. We’d check in with each other and see how their week had been, we’d share stories and laugh as we ate. In a small group discussion, I met people from all walks of life. All at different stages and different reasons for being there. Some felt like they had been in church their whole lives and knew all the ‘right’ things to say. Others seemed more distant, but open to asking. A few, like me, were somewhere in between searching, unsure, maybe a little skeptical. And yet, the room was full of honesty. We laughed, we disagreed respectfully, and we asked real questions, the kind that most people are too polite or too nervous to ask out loud, especially in church. I would always start every question with “sorry I’m going to ask the annoying question”. What surprised me most was how safe it felt. No one tried to “fix” my doubts or steer me in a certain direction. The leaders simply listened and shared their own journeys without pretense. There was something deeply human about it, to sit in a space with strangers and admit we don’t have all the answers, but still feel like we’re allowed to ask. Over the weeks, something shifted. I began to think about faith not just as a set of beliefs, but as a relationship. We explored who Jesus is, what prayer means, and whether there’s more to life than just the visible, tangible world. I wrestled with a lot of those ideas, but I never felt alone in the wrestling. It turned out that the time of Alpha correspondent with quite big life changes and challenges for me. I believe that the plot meant that this was meant to happen at this time and it has helped me to navigate a turbulent time. Looking back, Alpha didn’t give me all the answers, but it gave me a place to ask the right questions and that made all the difference. It helped me see that faith isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about taking a step, being curious, and letting yourself be open to the possibility that God might actually be real and present and closer than you think. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering about the bigger picture, about God, about purpose, about why we’re here, I’d honestly recommend Alpha. It’s not flashy or preachy. It’s real. And sometimes, real is exactly what we need.

In a world where trauma touches almost every corner of our lives, having spaces dedicated to healing, learning, and connection is essential. How to navigate trauma is vital in helping to create happy safe spaces. Emmanuel is hosting two powerful sessions on September 26 + 27 and here’s why investing in this event will be incredibly worthwhile: 1. Learn from experts & lived experience Day 1 is titled “Building a Trauma‑Sensitive Organisation”  and features seasoned professionals like Ruth Stephens (founder of Join the Dots and experienced OT in trauma therapy) and Tracy Bennett (25+ years as a social worker specialising in adversity). They will guide you through understanding trauma's impact, relational healing, nutrition, and embedding trauma‑informed principles across your work. Dr. Clare Pettinger is an award-winning Registered Dietitian, Public Health Nutritionist, and educator whose work explores the powerful intersections between food, trauma, and social justice. With a strong focus on community-engaged research, she addresses how food insecurity and poverty can be both causes and consequences of trauma. Dr. Pettinger is passionate about using creative, inclusive methods to amplify marginalised voices and promote healing through sustainable food systems. Her insights offer a unique lens on trauma informed practice, highlighting how nutrition, dignity, and equity are vital components of community wellbeing. 2. Practical tools for immediate application Through interactive workshops and expert talks, you’ll gain real-world strategies, from creating safe, inclusive environments to implementing trauma sensitive, sustainable practices within diverse organisational settings. These tools are designed to be actionable, allowing participants to translate insights into tangible change. You’ll explore methods for fostering psychological safety, promoting resilience, and embedding equity and wellbeing into everyday operations. Whether you're a leader, practitioner, or policymaker, you’ll leave equipped to influence culture, drive systemic improvements, and respond compassionately and effectively to complex challenges. 3. How to tackle burnout On September 27, the morning session, “How to Avoid Burnout in Ministry,”  delves into the often overlooked emotional toll of caregiving and leadership. Addressing crucial issues such as vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, and the pressures of continuous service, this session is specifically designed for helpers, carers, and ministry leaders who work with others daily. Participants will gain practical tools to build personal resilience, set healthy boundaries, and reconnect with the deeper purpose of their work. With a focus on long-term sustainability, the session empowers you to care for yourself as intentionally as you care for others ensuring your ministry remains life giving, not draining. 4. Connect with a supportive community You’ll be surrounded by a dynamic network of professionals, advocates, and community members—each dedicated to advancing trauma-informed care. These gatherings go far beyond passive learning; they’re intentionally designed as interactive, relational spaces where meaningful connection takes root. Whether you're exchanging stories, brainstorming solutions, or simply listening with empathy, you’ll find encouragement, inspiration, and solidarity. It’s a chance to share your experiences, learn from others, and grow together in a community that values healing, collaboration, and collective impact. 5. Accessible and Inclusive Pricing We want this training to reach everyone. Day 1 is just £25 , including lunch, and Day 2 is £10 , including refreshments. Funding support is available on request to keep the event open and accessible Who Should Attend? Charities, health service workers, churches, schools and youth organisations  aiming to better support trauma affected individuals. Professionals or volunteers  seeking to infuse trauma sensitivity into their environment and interactions. Caregivers, counsellors, and ministry leaders  wanting to learn from peers and refresh their resilience. Anyone passionate about creating safer, more compassionate spaces  in community contexts. In Summary Attending Emmanuel Plymouth’s Trauma‑Informed Conference gives you: Expert guidance in trauma-informed practice Actionable tools for immediate implementation A nurturing community of learners and leaders Affordable, inclusive access to high-quality training Strategies for self-care and avoiding burnout Whether you’re looking to build a trauma-informed organisation or safeguard your own well-being in care roles, these two days offer clarity, empowerment, and hope. Book your place now  and take a meaningful step toward creating healthier, more resilient spaces in your community.