30th anniversary of Emmanuel Church Lurgan
Tabled 9 September 2026 by Carla Lockhart
That this House congratulates Emmanuel Church Lurgan on its 30th anniversary; notes that the church was founded by Phil and Jill Emerson in their home on Waringstown Road on 8 September 1996, where the congregation gathered for its first 18 months; recognises its remarkable growth from those humble beginnings to its present home in Castle Lane; commends the church family for three decades of Christian witness, worship, compassion and practical support within Lurgan and the wider community; acknowledges the dedicated leadership of Phil Emerson throughout those 30 years; marks Rick Preston becoming lead pastor and Phil Emerson becoming founding pastor; and extends its warmest wishes to the entire Emmanuel Church family as it gives thanks for all that God has done and looks forward with faith and confidence to the years ahead.