Is it possible for a church to grow from fourteen people to impact communities across the globe? Here at Emmanuel Christian Centre, the answer is a resounding yes.
Emmanuel Christian Centre’s story began humbly enough. It started on June 23, 1974. Fourteen people gathered in a St John Ambulance hall in Epsom.
From those small beginnings, Emmanuel Christian Centre grew. It placed a strong emphasis on missions. By late 1974, international students began attending. They came from the University of Auckland and Auckland University of Technology.
Hundreds of students passed through Emmanuel Christian Centre from 1974 to 1979. These students mainly came from Singapore and Malaysia. This momentum led to a new church. Shalom Church was established in Singapore on August 5, 1979. It became the first Reformed Baptist Church in Singapore.
Emmanuel Christian Centre continued to expand its reach. In 1984, Stephen Turner and David Sterne were sent to start a new church. This new church was on Auckland’s North Shore. It is now called Shore Baptist Church.
In 1993, Wei En Yi was set apart in Singapore. He became the pastor of Shalom Church. Nelly van Acker traveled to Phnom Penh, Cambodia in 1997. She planned to serve the Lord there.
Emmanuel Christian Centre purchased its own premises in 1999. The address was 730 Mt Eden Road. Before that, they had met in rented spaces. The church commemorated its 25th anniversary on June 20, 1999. Pastor Joseph Hewitt of London was a special guest. He had baptised David Yan in London.
Over the years, Emmanuel Christian Centre has hosted camps and conferences. They joined with other churches. The church is active in missions. It is involved in Asia, northern Africa, and the Middle East.
Emmanuel Christian Centre is a member of the Fellowship of Reformed Baptist Churches in New Zealand. From its beginnings with international students, it has grown into a family church. About 80 to 100 people gather each Sunday morning. They come for Bible study and worship.
David Yan is the founding pastor. Dedicated deacons support him. Some have served for many years.
In 1999, Emmanuel Christian Centre bought a hall. It used to belong to the Exclusive Brethren. In late 2012, the church completed a new extension to their building.
Today, Emmanuel Christian Centre continues to uphold the Bible. They teach its truths about Jesus Christ. The name Emmanuel means God with us. They testify of His presence throughout their history. Emmanuel Christian Centre stands as a testament to faith. It shows dedication and global impact.