A tapestry of faith, woven with threads from across the globe, awaits us at Immanuel Church Dublin. This church stands as a testament to new beginnings. It embraces a rich diversity of age and culture. This reflects the multi-ethnic spirit of Dublin itself.
Immanuel Church Dublin started in September 2007. Irish Church Missions planted it. The church emerged from the old ICM Mission Church. Immanuel sought to be an ‘old church with new beginnings’.
The church recognizes God’s plan. It believes the Gospel calls people from every nation and language. Immanuel Church Dublin proclaims the Good News. By God’s grace, men and women may find repentance and faith in Christ.
Now, consider the building we stand before. It is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a beacon of hope. It is a place where people gather every Sunday at 11 am. They meet in the Irish Church Missions building at 28 Bachelors Walk. All races, nations, and backgrounds are welcome.
At Immanuel Church Dublin, the Bible is read and explored. People sing and reflect. They pray and share the Lord’s Supper. The aim is to encourage each other in following Christ. Children are welcome. A crèche and Sunday school are provided during the service.
Since its replanting in 2008, Immanuel Church Dublin has grown. Its regular Sunday congregation numbers about 65 people. These people come from all over the world. With the help of ICM, Immanuel has run an apprenticeship scheme. It has sent out 19 men and women. They are now better equipped to serve in churches around the world. Over half are in full-time church work.
Immanuel has also been instrumental in planting other churches. City Church Dublin was planted in 2013. Christ Church North Dublin followed in 2020. Kieron Lynch leads Immanuel. He is married to Esther. They have three children.
However, the path hasn’t been without its challenges. There have been systemic exclusions. These came from within the wider ministry of the Church of Ireland in Dublin. Despite being commissioned to direct a missionary organization, the Archbishop of Dublin removed Rev’d Martin’s license when Christ Church North Dublin was planted in June 2020.
Despite these challenges, Immanuel Church Dublin remains determined. It strives to start and strengthen healthy Anglican evangelical churches across Ireland. It is prepared to work with or without the backing of individual dioceses.
So, as we stand here before Immanuel Church Dublin, remember its story. It is a story of faith, resilience, and a commitment to spreading the Gospel. It is a story of a church that embraces diversity. It seeks to make a difference in the heart of Dublin and beyond. Immanuel Church Dublin continues to shine as a beacon of hope. It offers new beginnings to all who seek them.