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We need a creative and practical team to transform our church into a cosmic adventure for Holiday Club. With 105 children signed up, we're pulling out all the stops to make this space magical. Do you have any time free on the 26th, 27th July and 1st August. Dates and times: Come for as much or as little time as you can, every bit helps and is gratefully needed Set up: Saturday 26th July ( 9am - 4pm) - lunch provided - pasty! Sunday 27th July (1pm - 4:30pm) Take down: Friday 1st August (1pm - 4pm) Tasks Include: Hanging blackout blinds, fairy lights, and planets in the hall Setting up curtains and staging in the main church area Supporting den decorating (e.g. putting up gazebos, assembling staging) Helping with the check-in area setup Assisting with a  mystery visual display  in the front garden (ideas welcome!) Taking down decorations and equipment on Friday 1st August If you have time to spare and would like to help make a difference to children's lives please get in touch with Holly Martin - holly.martin@emmanuelplymouth.co.uk

In a world where millions live beyond the reach of roads, healthcare, or hope, there exists an extraordinary ministry that takes to the skies to bridge those impossible gaps— MAF UK (Mission Aviation Fellowship) . Known as the world’s busiest airline  by the number of destinations it serves, MAF is unlike any other. It’s a Christian aviation charity flying to places others won’t, or can’t, in the name of Jesus. Among the hundreds of dedicated staff MAF sends into service are Becki and Matt Dillingham , long-time friends of our Emmanuel Church community and true examples of faith lived out with humility, courage, and purpose. A calling that took flight early Becki’s story is remarkable. She sensed God’s call to become a missionary pilot at just 11 years old, a conviction that never faded. By the age of nine, she was already in the cockpit for her first flying lesson. That seed of passion, combined with a deepening faith, would grow into a lifelong calling. Becki trained as a commercial pilot and prepared her heart and skills for a unique mission: flying for MAF. Matt, too, felt a pull toward meaningful service. With a background in science and education, he not only fell in love with Becki but fully embraced her calling. Matt married both her and her calling . Their marriage is a shared mission, centered on service, shaped by faith, and powered by love. From the UK to Madagascar, Chad and now Tanzania Since joining MAF, the Dillinghams have served in Madagascar, then for many years in Chad, often flying into desert outposts and isolated communities on the edge of the Sahara. Now, they are stationed in Tanzania, where Becki serves as both pilot and Operations Manager for MAF’s East Africa program, and Matt continues his impactful work supporting / advising a Tanzanian school and a charity called Heshima , which equips people with skills to enable them to earn a living. Life in these places is far from easy, but they’ve embraced it all. They raise their two children, Bethan (born 2012) and Luke (born 2016), in cross-cultural environments, navigating language barriers, logistical challenges, and ever-changing assignments with grace and resilience. They don’t lead with fanfare, but with a steady, prayerful presence that uplifts those around them. A joyful reunion with Emmanuel We at Emmanuel have been proud and blessed to support the Dillinghams financially and prayerfully over the last three years . Many of you will remember their visits in 2022  and 2023 , as well as the live video interview we hosted with them from Chad —a powerful moment of connection that reminded us how small the world becomes when hearts are united in Christ. Now, Becki and Matt are preparing to return for another visit , and we are thrilled to reintroduce them to the wider church family . This is not just a homecoming—it’s a celebration of faith in action, a chance to hear their stories firsthand, and an opportunity to be inspired anew by what God is doing through their obedience. Let’s show up, listen and support Their story is a living example of 1 John 3:18: “Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”  Becki and Matt live this out in every takeoff, every cargo drop, every prayer shared with a local community. Whether or not you’ve met them before, we encourage everyone, young and old, seasoned Christians and seekers to come, listen, and engage. Let’s support them with our presence, our prayers, and, where possible, our resources. Evening service featuring Becki & Matt Dillingham 📅 Sunday 20th July 🕡 6:30pm Evening Service 📍 Emmanuel Church Hear about: The incredible work MAF is doing through evangelism safaris in partnership with a local Bible college The types of flying involved in MAF’s East Africa operations How God has led them through their unique journey of faith and mission A chance to reflect on how we each might respond to God’s calling

From the dusty roads of Nairobi to the vibrant worship of Thika, our journey to Kenya from 16th–24th May 2025 was far more than a trip, it was a spiritual pilgrimage, a mission of connection, and a glimpse of God’s hand at work in extraordinary ways. Travelling with Bishop Tim Dakin and youth worker Aaron Stanbury, I was privileged to experience firsthand the potential of a truly mutual and transformative partnership between Emmanuel Church, Plymouth and our brothers and sisters at ACK St Monica’s , Thika. ACK St Monica’s Church: A Church alive with spirit and service From the moment we stepped into the English-language service at St Monica’s on Sunday 18th May, it was clear this was a church filled with life. Children poured in by the hundreds, vibrant worship lifted the roof, and a framed print of Smeaton’s Lighthouse, gifted by us, symbolised Emmanuel’s prayer to shine Christ’s light, just as they do in their growing community. Yet it wasn’t only the energy that struck us, it was their deep desire for community and care. St Monica’s operates seven "cell groups" to nurture faith and relationships, including one Sunday a month after service for those who can’t attend during the week. We met with leaders across their ministries: children, youth, men’s, women’s, and PCC, and were warmly received as potential partners in ministry. Rev. Joseph and Rev. Alice’s vision and leadership impressed us deeply, especially their intentional outreach to youth and families in an increasingly pressured economic climate. A standout moment came during the service, when Archdeacon Joseph addressed the congregation with vulnerability, encouraging them to talk openly about struggles. The recent funeral of a young graduate who had died by suicide cast a sombre reminder of the mental health crisis affecting youth globally. It hit home that though our cultures differ, the heartache and hopes we carry are often the same. The Rural Church: Resilience and Resourcefulness On Friday 23rd May, we visited ACK St Peter’s Kianjugu — a rural parish led by Rev. Danson, whose passion and perseverance were evident. Evangelising the area before his ordination, Danson continues to shepherd three churches across challenging terrain. The community had been part of Tearfund’s Church and Community Mobilisation Process (CCMP), and though support was pulled unexpectedly, they’re now rekindling the initiative independently with diocesan backing. It was inspiring to witness how one woman, Jane, had donated land and spring water to her church and neighbours — a vivid example of faith in action. Despite poverty, the hospitality and gifts (including pineapples and bananas!) from Danson, Joseph and Jane moved us deeply. This wasn’t charity — it was kinship. Church Army Africa & The Tafakari Vision: Transforming Mission in Nairobi Monday 19th May brought us to Church Army Africa (CAA) in Nairobi, where Bishop Tim once served. The compound is home to Carlile College, three schools, a clinic, and the heartbeat of the HEAL model — Health, Education, Advocacy and Leverage of Wealth. Their bold proposal: a new training and conference centre that could revive and grow their outreach, including digital classrooms and space for theological and community training. The plan is visionary — and realistic. The Mission Committee’s recommendation to allocate a legacy donation here could help seed a future where evangelism is holistic and hope-filled. We saw the work of their clinic, schools, and were particularly encouraged by the calibre and unity of the leadership team. The future potential to expand the college and its outreach into nearby informal settlements aligns powerfully with our values of practical mission. Kibera and Tafakari: Where Faith Meets the Margins Perhaps the most humbling day of all was Tuesday 20th May in Kibera, one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements. At the Tafakari Centre, led by the remarkable Rev. Capt. Simon Peter (who lived in the slum himself for two years as part of his training!), we witnessed mission that is deeply incarnational. Their outreach is bold, yet beautiful in simplicity: Dignity kits for girls and boys Homework clubs offering light, space, and porridge A ‘Kazi Buddy’ app linking youth to casual labour Women’s empowerment through art and micro-business Training unqualified pastors through the Shepherds’ Institute What struck us wasn’t only the range of services, but the spirit behind them — deeply Christian, joyfully sacrificial, and profoundly hope-giving. As Fiona and Beth guided me through the alleys and open sewage trenches of Kibera, I saw firsthand how Tafakari is a literal and spiritual beacon. Their dreams of a music studio, science lab, and Airbnb studio to host visiting students are not far-fetched — they are faith-fuelled. Where Do We Go From Here? The potential of a partnership between Emmanuel and St Monica’s is enormous — but it must be relational, reciprocal, and rooted in prayer. Some ideas we’re exploring include: Linking home groups with cell groups Sharing children’s and youth ministry ideas Engaging with climate action as shared mission Building role-to-role connections (e.g. Men’s Ministry, Mothers’ Union) Shared online services, WhatsApp videos, and mutual social media following Creating a St Monica’s page on our website with regular updates and prayer points Nurturing a three-way link with a church in the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf Final Reflections This trip reminded us that mission is not “us to them” — it is God with all of us . Thika and Plymouth may be worlds apart geographically, but the Spirit of God is weaving something beautiful: mutual encouragement, shared struggle, and united purpose. As we consider our next steps — including potential involvement in CAA’s training centre, youth exchanges, or shared discipleship resources — let us move forward prayerfully, open-hearted, and expectant. Because when churches across continents dare to walk together in love and truth, the Kingdom of God is made visible — in Kibera, in Thika, in Plymouth, and beyond.

A light for the city Last week, two major decisions passed through Parliament that will shape the moral and spiritual landscape of our nation for years to come. On Friday, the  Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill  passed its final vote in the House of Commons. If passed by the House of Lords, it will legalise assisted suicide for mentally competent adults with less than six months to live. Just days earlier, an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill passed which effectively decriminalises abortion in England and Wales up to 24 weeks. These are weighty and deeply personal issues. They touch the raw edges of suffering, autonomy, and compassion. They raise real questions about what it means to be human, how we care for the vulnerable, and who gets to decide when life ends. And as followers of Jesus, we must respond, not with outrage or fear, but with truth, grace, and love. MP Danny Kruger ’s words struck a nerve last week: “The things our country needs more than anything are more children, and more care for our aging population. The Commons voted this week for the opposite—death to both groups. It’s the revenge of the middle-aged against their dependents.” It's a stark and sobering reflection. Is our society moving toward a culture of care, or a culture of control, where the lives of the most vulnerable are weighed against convenience, suffering, or perceived usefulness? The language around “assisted dying” and “reproductive choice” can feel deceptively compassionate. But as Andrew Goddard shows in his timely Grove booklet,  Right to Die? , much hinges on how we define autonomy, suffering, and even death itself. Are we truly free to choose when we are often shaped by pressure, loneliness, and fear? Are we protecting choice—or abandoning people when they need us most? We must also ask: what happens to palliative care funding when assisted suicide becomes an option? What message does it send to the elderly, disabled, or depressed, when society says, “Perhaps you’d be better off gone”? Similarly, what hope are we offering to scared women when abortion is framed not as a tragedy, but as freedom? Jesus offers another way. He meets us in our weakness, not with condemnation but with presence. He doesn't flee from suffering - He enters into it. The cross declares that every life matters, from the womb to the deathbed. And the Church is called to be a place where life is cherished, where the frightened are supported, and the dying are never left alone. At Emmanuel, we want to be a light to the city - not only in what we say, but in how we love. That includes investing in pastoral care, journeying with those in despair, advocating for life, and praying for our leaders. If you want to go deeper, I warmly commend Andrew Goddard’s Grove booklet,  Right to Die? The ‘Assisted Dying’ Debate . It’s accessible, thoughtful, and grounded in both theology and compassion.  And above all, let’s keep our eyes on Jesus - who holds our lives, our bodies, and our deaths in His hands. Our comfort in life and in death is that we are not our own, but belong - body and soul - to Him.

We are looking for enthusiastic, caring, and responsible volunteers to help run our Church Holiday Club for primary aged children. This fun and faith-based program offers a week of games, crafts, songs, Bible stories, and activities that help children learn about God’s love in an engaging way. Time commitment: 28th July – 1st August. 9am-1pm Monday to Friday Duties and responsibilities: Assist in setting up and tidying activity areas Supervise and support children during activities, games, and break times Help lead small group discussions or craft activities Participate in songs, drama, storytelling, and worship sessions Ensure the safety and well-being of all children in your care Model positive Christian values and behaviour Attend briefing/training session before the club starts Attend briefing and debriefing meetings each day of the holiday club Requirements:  A heart for working with children and sharing the Christian faith Reliability, punctuality, and teamwork Ability to follow safeguarding and health & safety policies Willingness to be flexible and take direction from leaders (Preferred) Previous experience with children or church activities What you’ll get: Experience in leadership, teaching, event planning, and teamwork. Opportunity to live out your faith through service. Build a closer connection with the church community and mission. Feel good for supporting your community and children Interested? Contact Holly Martin - holly.martin@emmanuelplymouth.co.uk

Volunteering with the church is more than just lending a helping hand, it’s a meaningful way to grow spiritually, build community, and make a real difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s through organising events, helping the needy, or participating in outreach programs, church volunteers play a crucial role in supporting both their congregation and the broader community. Here are some compelling reasons why volunteering with the church is a valuable and rewarding experience. Volunteering with the church isn’t just good, it’s transformative. 1. Spiritual growth Volunteering is a powerful way to deepen your faith. It provides opportunities to live out biblical teachings, such as serving others selflessly and practicing compassion. When you give your time and talents to support church ministries, you’re actively participating in God’s work and allowing Him to shape your character. Many volunteers find that serving others strengthens their relationship with God and brings a greater sense of purpose to their lives. 2. Building community and relationships Church volunteering fosters a strong sense of community. It allows individuals to connect with others who share similar values and beliefs. These relationships often turn into lasting friendships and spiritual support networks. Working together toward a common goal, whether it’s preparing meals, organising youth programs, or leading worship, builds trust, teamwork, and unity within the congregation. 3. Making a positive impact The church often serves as a hub for charitable activities, such as food drives and mission trips. Volunteers are essential in making these programs successful. By giving your time, you help meet real needs in your community and bring hope to those who are struggling. Your service can have a lasting impact on individuals and families—sometimes in ways you may never fully realize. 4. Discovering and using your gifts Volunteering gives you the opportunity to discover and develop your God-given talents. Whether you’re skilled in music, teaching, organization, or simply offering a warm smile, there’s a place for you to serve. Many people find that through volunteering, they uncover passions and skills they didn’t know they had, which can be fulfilling both in and outside of the church setting. 5. Being a role model Volunteers set a powerful example for others, especially young people. When you serve faithfully, you demonstrate what it means to live a life of faith and service. Your actions can inspire others to get involved and create a ripple effect of generosity and kindness within the church community and beyond. 6. Emotional and mental benefits Studies have shown that volunteering boosts emotional well-being. Helping others can reduce stress, combat depression, and provide a sense of accomplishment. Knowing that your efforts contribute to something bigger than yourself brings joy and peace, especially when you’re working alongside others who are equally passionate about making a difference. Volunteering with the church isn’t just good, it’s transformative. It nurtures your spirit, strengthens the body of Christ, and extends God’s love to those who need it most. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the congregation, there’s always a way to get involved and make a meaningful contribution. In giving of yourself, you may find you receive far more in return.

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 15 September at 7.30pm in the Oval Room

I'm always excited to share what's happening in our church and the wider world. Today, I want to talk about some fascinating research that confirms what many of us have been sensing: God is on the move! The " Quiet Revival " report, recently published by the Bible Society, offers an encouraging snapshot of the current state of the church in England and Wales. This study, conducted by YouGov, one of the UK's leading research agencies, has been tracking religious trends since 2018. Using large, representative samples, it gives us a reliable picture of what's really going on. And the big news? Despite predictions of decline, the church is actually growing, especially among young adults! This is so exciting for us at Emmanuel, as our vision is to be a light for the city, reflecting Jesus, the light of the world. Our purpose is to be a visible and transformative presence in Plymouth, shining the hope of Christ into our community. The Quiet Revival’s findings align beautifully with our own journey and call. A Growing and Changing Church The report reveals some amazing trends. Church attendance has risen significantly, particularly among young adults. Back in 2018, only 4% of 18-24 year olds were attending church regularly, but now that's jumped to 16%! Overall, churchgoing Christians have increased from 8% of the population in 2018 to 12% today. It's not just numbers, though; the church is also becoming more diverse, with a growing number of young people from different ethnic backgrounds finding a spiritual home. Here at Emmanuel, we value being Hungry for more of God, Hopeful in His promises, and Holy in our lives. It's so encouraging to see that the Quiet Revival highlights a vibrant faith characterized by a hunger for spiritual growth and a deep engagement with the Bible. This resonates with our own commitment to growing as disciples (Priority 1) and seeking spiritual transformation. A Church of Belonging and Purpose One of the most heartening findings of the report is the positive impact of church involvement. It turns out that being part of a church community is linked to greater life satisfaction, a stronger sense of belonging, and decreased anxiety and depression, especially among young adults. In a world that can often feel isolating, the church provides a vital space for connection and healing, which ties in perfectly with our emphasis on pastoral care (Priority 2). The Quiet Revival also shows that churchgoers are more likely to be active in their communities. They're more involved in volunteering, charitable giving, and working to make a positive difference. This confirms our belief in being a transformative presence in Plymouth (Goal 6), working for the common good and addressing the needs around us. Embracing the Revival at Emmanuel So, how do we respond to this exciting news? The Quiet Revival report suggests a few key things: Deepen our discipleship: With so many new people joining us, let's focus on helping everyone grow in their understanding of the Bible and their faith. Connect the generations: We can learn so much from each other! Creating opportunities for older and younger folks to share their experiences and wisdom will enrich us all. Prioritise relationships: The report emphasizes the power of authentic connections in bringing people to faith and supporting their journey. Let's continue to build strong relationships within our church family and reach out to others with the love of Christ. A Bright Future Together The Quiet Revival is a reminder that God is at work, even when we least expect it. As Emmanuel Church, we have a vital role to play in Plymouth, and this is a time of incredible opportunity. Let's embrace this season with open hearts, bold faith, and a renewed commitment to being a light for our city!

My approach to the serious environmental situation that the world is currently facing comes from both my science and my faith and so the evening on 17th May will cover aspects of both. The environmental crisis is serious as we face fast advancing climate change, loss of many species of plants and animals (biodiversity), pollution from excess plastic and rising sea levels. Forests are vital for a sustainable future as they control and protect the climate as well as housing many biological species. The Amazon rainforest is home to a third of all biological species in the world and its deforestation is a serious contributor to climate change. After many years exploring the Amazon rainforest I have watched while 25 percent of the forest has been destroyed for unsustainable cattle pasture, soybean fields and timber extraction, and the native peoples evacuated from their lands, so I will address the seriousness of the environmental crisis. I will speak a bit about the destruction of the forest, but will also show some pictures of the wonders of interactions between the plants and the animals of the forest as the natural environment speaks to us for itself. How is all his connected to my Christian faith? I believe that my work has been helping to understand more about the working of God's creation. It is not just the environment, but it is creation that I study and that I am striving to help. As a Christian travelling around on the Amazon mission field I have many opportunities to interact with missionaries and churches in Amazonia. I have found that here are so many ways in which a Christian layman can witness for Jesus and also for the care of His creation. As Saint Paul says in Romans 8:22 "The whole creation is groaning." However, this will not be a lecture of doom and gloom as my hope comes from my faith in Jesus Christ and the Bible tells us that " For in Him (Christ) all things in heaven and on earth were created"....and "all things have been created through him and for him" (Colossians 1: 16). If creation was by and for jesus Christ then we as Christians must help to protect it. And so my lecture will also address some of the reasons from the Bible that Christians who believe in a creator God need to be involved in creation care. This should help Emmanuel progress towards its pathway to become an EcoChurch. We can't all be involved in protecting the Amazon rainforest in the way that I have, but we can all do our little bit to protect God's creation and to live in a more sustainable way wherever we live both as individuals and as a church community. I hope that you will come to the evening ready to listen and to discuss these important issues.