When people come to Emmanuel for the first time, they always comment on how friendly and welcoming the people are – that is important to us. Emmanuel United Church is among the oldest congregations in Waterloo – having started before 1850. Originally Evangelical United Brethren, it joined the United Church in 1968. We are blessed with a wide range of ages and outlooks in the congregation. There are abundant seniors, middle-agers, young families, university students, teens and children. The membership at Emmanuel is approximately 400 with an average attendance of 150 people each Sunday. Music is very important to us and an integral part of our services. We have active choirs, a wonderful pipe organ, a bell choir and are blessed with a beautiful sanctuary with outstanding acoustics. Emmanuel also prides itself on investing in youth and children. Members are keenly aware that the presence of so many children is a gift, and the congregation is committed to serving them well. Emmanuel has a history of outreach projects, including programs for the homeless, refugee sponsorship, involvement with Habitat for Humanity, and other endeavours. Among them are Bible and Beers (our post-high-school and up group), Toothpix (senior’s social group), and the Youth Group. We put on many special events: dramas, music nights, square-dance, a Crokinole competition, and other gatherings that allow us to enjoy each other’s company.
