Emmanuel Church

What distinguishes Emmanuel in the eyes of many is its welcoming atmosphere and friendliness, open to all, where members can explore, question, learn and go out to the wider world alive in their faith.

Emmanuel Church was founded nearly 150 years ago and was one of the first Episcopal Churches outside of the United States. Land was donated, funds raised, and former President, General Ulysses S. Grant laid the cornerstone of the church building on 27 July 1877.  The Parish Hall was completed in 1930 and also houses the Library in English, the largest English-language library in Greater Geneva. Emmanuel has grown to become an international church in the Episcopal tradition with parishioners of over 30 nationalities, speaking more than 25 different languages, and coming from many different Christian and non-Christian faith traditions. The reading on Pentecost Sunday is lively indeed.

Emmanuel Church has a strong American tradition as a prominent English-speaking church in one of the most international cities. In recent years, as the numbers of American expatriates posted in Geneva have slowly gone down, Emmanuel Church has become more international and more “local”. Emmanuel also has a tradition of strong music in the Anglican tradition, led by our organist/choir director. Most agree that the music and choir are “outstanding”.  Recently, an African Singing Group has formed, adding further to our services.

Key activities include a Youth Program, Sunday School, Bible study, Inreach to our own parishioners, and Outreach to those beyond our doors. Of the many events scattered throughout the year, “Africa Night” is a highlight, organized by the sizable group of African parishioners bringing the parish together with colorful traditional dress, delicious food and music from across Africa. Along with Africa Night, concerts and other events help raise funds for our various Outreach projects: monthly soup kitchen food preparation for 150-200 people; collection of Christmas gifts for children, and several projects in other parts of the world. Other annual events include an Easter sunrise service on the shores of Lac Léman, Lessons and Carols in Advent and a children’s Christmas pageant, Bible study, Youth program and talent shows, a Thanksgiving service and potluck dinner, and an annual picnic, usually on the Lake.

Emmanuel Church is a parish of the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe

Emmanuel enjoys close relations with Holy Trinity, the chaplaincy in Geneva of the Diocese in Europe, Church of England; and with St. Germain, the Geneva parish of the Swiss Old Catholic Church. Two or three services a year are held at St Germain in the Geneva Old Town, at least one a joint bilingual service.