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- In the Beginning - Sermon Series
Considered a foundation for faith, this series reveals God’s design for creation, humanity’s purpose, and His unfolding plan to restore relationship and blessing through His presence. IN the beginning Sermon series November 2nd - December 21st, 2025 This 7-week sermon series journeys through the opening chapters of Genesis, tracing God’s design, humanity’s calling, and His unfolding plan of redemption. From creation and fall to covenant and promise, we discover how God’s purposes have always been to dwell with His people and bring blessing to the world. As Advent approaches, the series points us toward the fulfilment of these promises in Christ, the One through whom new creation begins. In the Beginning: Gods Temple Sunday 2nd November Creation is more than a beginning — it’s God establishing His dwelling among us. The world is His temple, filled with His presence and goodness. The Broken Image Sunday 16th November Sin distorts God’s design and fractures our relationship with Him and one another. Yet even in our failure, God’s mercy begins to break through. A World Washed, A Promise Kept Sunday 30th November The flood brings both judgment and renewal. God’s covenant with Noah reminds us of His faithfulness a promise of grace that endures Blessing begins with a Call Sunday 21st December God’s call to Abram begins a new story of blessing for all nations. Through one man’s faith, we glimpse the unfolding plan that leads to Jesus. Dust and Breath: Human Calling Sunday 9th November Formed from dust yet filled with God’s breath, we are made to bear His image. Our calling is to steward creation and reflect His glory in all we do. Where is Your Brother? Sunday 23rd November Cain and Abel’s story reveals how sin spreads through envy and violence. God calls us back to responsibility, compassion, and reconciliation. Scattered to be Gathered Sunday 7th December At Babel, humanity’s pride leads to scattering. Yet God’s heart is to gather His people again, uniting them under His name and purpose.
- Vision | Emmanuel Church
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)
- Giving
GIVING Giving to the church is more than just financial support, it's a spiritual act of worship, trust, and gratitude. When you give, you're helping to fuel the mission of the church: sharing the Gospel, supporting ministries, reaching the community, and caring for those in need. Your generosity sustains vital programs like youth ministry, local outreach, global missions, and weekly worship gatherings. It also helps maintain the church as a welcoming space where people can connect, grow in faith, and find hope. More than that, giving is a step of faith. It’s a way of putting God first, acknowledging that everything we have comes from Him, and choosing to be part of something bigger than ourselves. As Scripture says, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Every gift—no matter the size—makes an eternal impact and builds the future of the church. Together, through faithful giving, we can make a difference that lasts far beyond today. If you would like to give financially to support the ministry of Emmanuel Church and linked Ministries, various options are available - standing order, online giving, debit card donation in church, cash in the church gifts box. If you pay income tax, we encourage you to use Gift Aid to enable us to claim back your tax from HMRC and increase your giving by 25%. Standing Order One of the easiest ways to give is by setting up a regular monthly gift by standing order through your bank. This is also one of the simplest ways for us to track the giving we receive. Bank Account Details: Account Name: Emmanuel Church Account Number: 00092249 Sort Code: 40-52-40 Give through Stewardship. Helping Christians be the best stewards of the resources God gives them. Give
- Alpha @ Emmanuel
ALPHA Alpha is a series of group conversations that freely explore the basics of the Christian faith in an open, friendly environment. Everyone’s welcome. No matter your background or beliefs, you’re invited. Each session includes: A delicious free meal A short video on life & faith Open, judgment-free discussion No pressure. No preaching. Just conversation. Bring a friend — or come meet new ones. All are welcome! You’ll be hosted in a small group and watch an episode on a different question of faith – then you have a chance to share your thoughts and hear what others think. You can say anything you like, or nothing at all. Everyone’s welcome. You’re invited, no matter your background or beliefs. It’s free and there’s no pressure to come back. Our Next Alpha Course: Our Next Alpha Course Starts with a Curry Night on Saturday 12th September at 7:00pm And continues every Tuesday from the 15th September at 7:00pm Click below to book on and for more info Sign up
- Bereavement Journey
BEREAVEMENT JOURNEY The Bereavement Journey is for anyone who has been bereaved at any time and in any way The Bereavement Journey is an award-winning* series of films and discussion groups that gently guide people bereaved at any time through the most common aspects of grief and bereavement, enabling them to process the implications for themselves and discern next steps. The programme uniquely offers a final session on faith questions in bereavement, provided from a Christian perspective. This follows the main sessions and is optional, making The Bereavement Journey suitable for people of any faith or none. Find out more Sign up
- Safeguarding | Emmanuel Church
SAFEGUARDING Your safety matters to us. If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 999 straight away. If you are worried about a child, young person or vulnerable adult, or about the behaviour of someone involved in church activities, please speak to someone. You do not need proof to raise a concern. You can contact: Parish Safeguarding Representative: Carol Springett Diocesan Safeguarding Team by clicking here NSPCC: 0808 800 5000 Childline (for young people): 0800 1111 If you would prefer to speak to someone outside the church, you can call Plymouth City Council’s safeguarding services on 01752 668000 . You can also call 101 for police in non-emergency situations. National helplines: NSPCC – 0808 800 5000 Childline – 0800 1111 Stop it Now – 0808 1000 900 NAPAC – 0808 801 0331 Samaritans – 116 123 Family Lives – 0808 800 2222 National Domestic Violence Helpline – 0808 2000 247 Action on Elder Abuse – 0808 808 8141 Report a 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 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.
- Sermon Series
Our sermon series are more than just Sunday messages, they’re shared journeys of faith. SERIES SERMON Shared journeys of faith Our sermon series are more than just Sunday messages, they’re shared journeys of faith. Each series focuses on a key theme, Bible passage, or real-life question, explored together over several weeks. This approach helps us dig deeper into God’s Word, understand His truth more clearly, and live it out more fully in our everyday lives. Whether we’re walking through a book of the Bible verse-by-verse or exploring how the Gospel speaks into today’s challenges, our sermon series are designed to connect God’s timeless truth to your life here and now. Join us each week as we grow together as a community of believers, following Jesus and making Him known in Plymouth and beyond. Where the Wind Blows? May - July 2026 Journey through the book of Acts as we discover how God's Spirit empowers ordinary people and advances his unstoppable mission in the world. view The Cut Flower: Rooting a Fading West March - April 2026 Each week explores the spiritual disciplines that root us again in Christ, restoring depth, resilience, and hope in a fading culture. view In the Beginning November - December 2025 Exploring God’s plan from creation to promise, showing how He invites us into relationship, guides our steps, and calls us to hope, faith, and obedience. view Jonah August 2025 The book of Jonah isn’t just about a runaway prophet and a big fish, it’s about our struggles with obedience, compassion and God’s mission. view The Gifts Of The Holy Spirit April - May 2026 We will be exploring, What is the Holy Spirit, the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and Waiting on the Spirit view The God Who Sees: From the Well to the Waters January - February 2026 At the well, we met a Jesus who sees us, knows us, and invites us deeper. This series journeys through Scripture to reveal a God who has always seen His people and called them into deeper waters. view The Lord's Prayer September - October 2025 Focusing on a phrase of the prayer, showing how Jesus models worship, surrender, trust and hope for His followers view Humble June - August 25 A powerful and honest journey as we explore what it truly means to be a humble, healing, and hope-filled church community. view
- Venue Hire | Emmanuel Church
Venue Hire BOOKABLE SPACES Whether you're planning a community event, training day, children's party, meeting or celebration, Emmanuel Church offers a range of flexible, well-equipped spaces available for hire. Conveniently located, our rooms provide a welcoming environment for groups, organisations and individuals, with options to suit a variety of needs and budgets. At Emmanuel, we're delighted to make our buildings available for the benefit of the wider community. From regular classes and meetings to one-off events and special occasions, our versatile spaces can accommodate a wide range of activities in a friendly and accessible setting.
- Our Team | Emmanuel Church
Meet THE TEAM We are run by a dedicated team passionate about helping people grow in their faith and build strong community connections. The team includes vicars, ministry leaders, operational staff and volunteers who work together to serve the church family and wider community. Committed to biblical teaching, worship, discipleship, and outreach, they aim to reflect the love of Christ in all they do. Peter Shaw Team Rector / Vicar Jane Bullard Operations Manager Ryan Thornton Worship, Children's & Communications Intern Linda Wheeler Church Warden / Care Home Ministry Lead Tim Lyddon Preaching / Leading / LLM Pam Edwards Church Warden / Preaching / Leading / LLM Chris Benson Operations Support Bev Cree Parish Deacon at St Paul's and Emmanuel Robin Brown Team Vicar / Alpha Lead Holly Martin Children's & Youth Minister Kathryn McGuinness Pastoral Lead Tim Dakin Preaching / Chair of Mission Committee Pippa Brown Preaching / Leading / LLM Simon Springett Church Treasurer Darryl Cree Vicar of St. Paul's Sally Dakin Clergy Lead at St Marys / Preaching / Leading
- NEW HERE | Emmanuel Church
NICE to meet you We know it can be daunting starting something new, but we are here to make sure you feel welcomed into your church community Hi, welcome to Emmanuel Church Plymouth We’re so glad you’re checking us out, and we’d love to get to know you and help you feel at home here. A great first step is signing up on our church portal – it’s the best way to stay in the loop with everything going on at Emmanuel. You can sign up for events, update your contact details and receive our weekly emails that keep you up-to-date with all that’s happening. We also run newcomers events, which are a great opportunity to meet some of the team and others who are new to Emmanuel. You can also join a Connect Group or one of our serving teams – both brilliant ways to build friendships and get involved in church life. If you’ve got any questions, feel free to drop us an email – we’d love to hear from you and help you get connected. SIGN UP FIRST STEPS Some simple steps to help you start your journey with us Sign up Visit Connect Attend Register on our portal Come to a service Lets get social Join an event Welcome Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. Romans 15:7
- The Lords Prayer Sermon Series
Considered a model for prayer, covering worship, dependence on God, repentance and moral guidance in just a few sentences. LORD'S PRAYER Sermon series September 7th - October 26th, 2025 This 8-week sermon series unpacks the depth and beauty of the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9–13), guiding believers to a richer understanding of prayer as both relationship and dependence on God. Each week focuses on a phrase of the prayer, showing how Jesus models worship, surrender, trust, and hope for His followers. Our Father in Heaven Sunday 7th September Prayer begins with relationship. God is both our loving Father and the holy King of heaven. We approach Him with confidence and reverence. Your Kingdom Come Sunday 21st September We long for God’s reign to break into our world. His kingdom brings justice, peace, and renewal. Praying this is aligning our hearts with His mission. Give Us Today Our Daily Bread Sunday 5th October God cares for our daily needs, both physical and spiritual. Asking for “bread” is an act of dependence. Each day, He faithfully provides. Lead Us Not into Temptation Sunday 19th October Life brings trials and spiritual battles. We ask God to guide us away from sin and protect us from evil. He is our refuge and strength. Hallowed Be Your Name Sunday 7th September God’s name is set apart and worthy of honor. To hallow His name is to live for His glory. Our prayers call us to worship in word and deed. Your Will Be Done Sunday 28th September True prayer surrenders to God’s plan above our own. We yield to His wisdom. Trusting His will brings peace and direction. Forgive Us Our Sins Sunday 12th October We are forgiven by God’s grace through Christ. Prayer reminds us to extend that same grace to others. Forgiveness sets us free from bitterness. For Yours Is the Kingdom Sunday 26th October Prayer ends with praise, lifting our eyes to God’s eternal rule. All power and glory belong to Him alone. This assurance fills us with hope and worship
- I'm New | Emmanuel Church
HELLO Whether you're visiting for the first time, exploring faith, returning to church or looking for somewhere to call home - you're so welcome. Emmanuel is a church in the heart of Plymouth helping people discover Jesus, find community and make a difference. Get Connected Next steps Gather With Us Join us on a Sunday and experience worship, teaching and community together. -> Learn More Visit Us Whether you're exploring faith or looking for a church to call home, we'd love to welcome you. -> Visit Children's & Youth Safe, engaging spaces where children and young people can grow in faith. -> Discover our Groups Serve on Team Use your gifts, make a difference and become part of the life of Emmanuel. -> Learn More Get Connected Receive updates about church life, events and opportunities to get involved. -> Register your Details





