Emmanuel News | Emmanuel United Methodist Church

All Saints Day

Nov 28, 2023

Every year, Emmanuel United Methodist Church joyfully celebrates All Saints Day on the first Sunday in November. This sacred occasion takes place during our regular Sunday morning service, where we come together as a community to honor and remember our beloved ‘saints’ who have passed away in the previous year. It is a moment of reflection and gratitude for the lives they lived and the impact they made on our congregation. In the spirit of togetherness, we extend a heartfelt invitation to the family members of the departed individuals, welcoming them back to Emmanuel with open arms. We encourage them to actively participate in the ceremony, ensuring their loved ones’ memories are cherished and their legacies endure. As a poignant symbol of remembrance, each saint is lovingly named, and a candle is lit, illuminating the sanctuary with their eternal light. The sweet chiming of a small bell resonates throughout the sacred space, enveloping us in a serene atmosphere that honors their lives and acknowledges their presence in our hearts. In the accompanying image, you can see the remarkable Ross family, who gathered together to commemorate their cherished loved one, Louise Sara Ross. Among the twelve esteemed saints we recognized on that sacred day, Louise’s memory shone brightly, reminding us of the profound impact she had on our church community. Due to the unfortunate circumstances of the pandemic, our cherished ceremony was not held since 2019. However, with renewed hope and resilience, we eagerly await the opportunity to gather once again and celebrate the lives of our beloved ‘saints.’ Following the service, we come together as one family to share a heartfelt dinner. This communal meal serves as a time to connect, share stories, and find solace in the presence of one another. It is an occasion filled with love, compassion, and a deep sense of unity. Join us on this special day as we remember, honor, and celebrate the lives of our departed ‘saints.’ Let us come together as a community, embracing the profound impact they had on our journey of faith. Together, we will create an atmosphere of love, remembrance, and gratitude that will forever echo within the halls of Emmanuel United Methodist Church.

Bowling Party

Nov 27, 2023

A bowling party, as a fundraiser for Emmanuel United Methodist Church’s 75th Anniversary, was held on Saturday, November 25th. It was a delightful and exciting event held at the Thunderbird Lanes on Castor Avenue in Philadelphia. This fantastic gathering welcomed families and friends of all ages at Emmanuel to come out and enjoy a wonderful time together. Mouthwatering food was expertly prepared and served by our dedicated members of the anniversary committee, adding a delicious touch to the festivities. With a total of 16 lanes available, the bowling alley was buzzing with energy as all lanes were filled with enthusiastic bowlers showcasing their skills. Join us for more incredible events and celebrations as we continue to commemorate Emmanuel United Methodist Church’s rich history and community spirit!

Moses at Sight and Sound

Oct 7, 2023

On October 7, 2023, members and friends of Emmanuel United Methodist Church embarked on an exciting journey together. Their destination? The Sight and Sound Theater in Lancaster, PA, where they would witness the awe-inspiring stage production of MOSES. This incredible outing served as a fundraiser to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Emmanuel, bringing the congregation and their loved ones even closer. But before immersing themselves in the captivating world of biblical storytelling, the attendees indulged in a delightful brunch at Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant and Buffet. With an irresistible all-you-can-eat buffet featuring Pennsylvania Dutch delicacies, Miller’s set the perfect tone for a day full of unforgettable experiences. Sight & Sound Theater, known for its outstanding Christian productions with inspirational musicals, beautifully presented the life of Moses from his miraculous birth to his impactful journey, spanning all the moments in between. This grand two-act play, accompanied by a 20-minute intermission, captivated the audience with its remarkable costumes, soul-stirring music, and an unwavering narrative of Moses’ extraordinary life. The incorporation of live animals and heart-wrenching scenes further intensified the emotional connection between the attendees and the story unfolding before their eyes. Among the many remarkable scenes, one stood out prominently – the “parting of the red sea”. As the music reached its crescendo, the surreal depiction of the sea actually parting left everyone in awe. It was a moment that will forever be etched in their memories. We are excited to share a glimpse of the incredible day through this picture. Here, you can see some of the attendees who were fortunate enough to be a part of this extraordinary experience: Jackie McNeil, Donna Stratton, Alita Thomas, Kim Thorne, and Terry Leach. Join us on our next adventure as we continue to celebrate Emmanuel United Methodist Church’s rich history and the meaningful connections we forge along the way. Together, let’s create memories that will last a lifetime.