Sharon Taylor

What does it mean to me to be a part of Emmanuel Greenwood? Emmanuel is love in action. It is the perfect example of the body of Christ: each person being their authentic self and showing up to love and serve the other members of the body. Emmanuel collectively gives us permission to be ourselves without pretense. This enables us to love freely, without restriction. I had pretty much stopped going to church. I grew up Catholic, but started going to the Episcopal Church with my Daddy when I would come home from college. I took a long break from church (but not from my Divine Source) until I was pregnant with my oldest daughter. I joined the Episcopal Church and raised both of my girls in the church. After they left home, I attended a New Thought Center, in which I found my spiritual home. After I was called back home to Virginia (yes, it was a genuine call: not a “suggestion” it was mandatory, and I heeded!) I found a New Thought Church up here. However, during COVID, I stopped attending and just attended my old Church in Alabama virtually. 


Last year, when my Mama died, I moved in with Daddy and this church STEPPED UP! You fed us, our bodies and our hearts. You showed up to physically move my belongings into Daddy’s house. You showered us with love. You embraced me with open hearts and open arms. I thought to myself “Self, even though I don’t believe in the Christian story like I used to, THIS is love in action. This is a congregation I can happily and joyfully be a part of. THIS is what church is supposed to be.” Thank you, Emmanuel family, for creating an environment where ALL are welcomed. It feels warm and inviting. It feels like home and I am very grateful.