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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.

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!