December Update
Dear Friends
As we step into December, my prayer is that we’d all be struck by the wonder of the season. In the midst of shorter days and colder mornings the message of Christmas breaks in with extraordinary light: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” God draws near — not in theory, but in person; not at a distance, but in presence.
And as I look around our church family, I see so many signs of that same presence — in the love you show, the ways you serve, and the welcome you offer to others. This month in particular, I want to say how grateful I am to every member of staff and to the multitude of volunteers who give so generously of their time, gifts, and their hearts. Whether you serve through hospitality, music, children’s/youth ministry, prayer, pastoral care, behind-the-scenes organisation, technical support, or countless other acts of service — please know how appreciated you are. The ministry of PMCH is only possible because of you.
This December we have a wide range of Christmas activities planned, each offering a different way for people to encounter the hope of Jesus. From Messy Christmas and our walking carols, to Carols in the DC, our Christmas Eve celebrations, and our Christmas Day worship, we hope there is something for everyone. You can find the full list on our website HERE, and I encourage you not only to come and take part, but also to invite someone who might need the warmth and wonder of Christmas this year.
We are delighted to be hosting a number of concerts and community events throughout the month, moments where our building becomes a place of gathering and joy for the wider city. Among these is the University of Plymouth graduation ceremony, which is a significant event for many families. As we welcome students, parents, and guests, may we do so with graciousness and honour — recognising that each person who steps through our doors is someone deeply loved by God.
Throughout Advent we’ll be continuing to reflect on our theme of Calling. The nativity story is full of such callings — Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the magi — each invited by God into something unexpected, stretching, and beautiful. And as we consider their stories, my hope is that we might remain open to the invitations of God in our own lives.
As we journey together through this holy season, may the peace of Christ guard your hearts, may His joy strengthen you, and may His hope lead you into the year ahead.
Jonny
News from PMCH
Plymouth Foodbank Update
It’s been an incredibly encouraging year at Plymouth Foodbank, where we’ve seen God move powerfully across so much of what we do. Our Tuesday Coffee Morning continues to bring together a warm and welcoming group of 9–12 people each week, and we launched a new Thursday Coffee Morning in November. The Table of Hope is growing beautifully, now serving 15–22 guests each week and nurturing a vibrant fellowship group currently journeying through Freedom in Christ. Alongside this, our 1-to-1 faith conversations and monthly men’s Bible study with Salt continue to open doors for deeper connection, support, and transformation.
We also want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who faithfully supports us through Foodbank Sundays. Your generosity makes a real and lasting difference. We’ll be at PMCH on Sunday 7 December collecting Christmas food items, and we’d love to see you there. In addition, our winter appeal is now underway, with a goal of raising £25,500 to keep the Foodbank running during the four coldest months. So far, we’ve reached £1,037 —and with your help, we believe we can hit our target. If you feel able to give, you can do so through HERE. Thank you for standing with us in this vital work.
What’s coming up in December
Advent at PMCH
Our Christmas flyers have arrived, filled with details about all the special services and events happening throughout December. Take a moment to think about who you could invite — friends, family, neighbours — everyone’s welcome!
Don’t forget to visit the Events and Christmas pages on our website to make sure you don’t miss out on what’s happening.
External Event Monday 08 to Thursday 11 December
We have an upcoming high-profile event coming up at PMCH with the University of Plymouth. For this event they will be using all areas of the building (excluding the Discovery Café) from 8am till 6pm each day. Please could we make clear that the building will not be accessible to church members and groups during these times. This does not impact any evening groups after 6pm. All group leaders should be aware of this but if you have any questions, please contact morgan.preston@pmch.org.uk. This event will be ticketed, and security will be managed by the university, therefore, if you urgently need to access the building please contact the office or see a staff member on duty who should be able to help you. Plymouth Soft Play Café will be closed Tuesday 09 and Wednesday 10 December, and back open 12 December.
Prayer Meeting | Wednesday 05 November 7:30pm | PMCH
Join us for the last monthly Prayer Meeting of 2025 in the Prayer Chapel. It’s a great opportunity to join together and offer ourselves and the world to God in prayer.
New4U Christmas Extravaganza | 12 Dec 6pm - 13 Dec 9:30am
ICE-SKATING + DOMINOES PIZZA + HIDE & SEEK + CHRISTMAS FILM + 'SLEEP' IN THE CHURCH + YUMMY BREAKFAST
ALL FOR THE BARGAIN PRICE OF £15.00!!!
Meet@ Plymouth Argyle Club Shop at 6.30pm Friday 12 December
Pick Up@ PMCH at 10.00am Saturday 13 December
Messy Christmas | Sunday 14 December 3-4:45pm
An afternoon of family fun!
Nativity, songs, crafts, activities and refreshments
We would be grateful for donations of cakes, buns, mince pies etc. If items are homemade please include list of ingredients. We anticipate maybe 200 people so would be very grateful for contributions. Please sign up on the list on Welcome Desk or HERE
Romania Christmas Box Appeal
Well what can we say except a massive thank you for your overwhelming support for the Christmas Box Appeal for the children of Tarlengeni and Zizin in Romania this Christmas. We are thrilled to let you know that we will be sending £1906.47 to the charity in Romania to enable them to buy Christmas gifts for the 200+ children that benefit from the mission house work. Your kindness will truly make a big difference for those children.
Foodbank Hub
Foodbank Sundays
Please support our Foodbank by donating items each month. Below are the dates and item suggestions for Foodbank Sunday but. any items of food or toiletries will be gratefully received.
07 December - Christmas Items
Foodbank Prayer Meeting
Join us Saturdays 9:30am - 12 as we pray for the Foodbank and the people we connect with at our sessions.
06 December
Please email Mark for more info mark@plymouthfoodbank.co.uk
January 2026
Challenge Cup | 11 January
Come and join us for an epic afternoon of challenges and games, with a roast lunch included after our morning service. This is open to young people in school years 3-13. Book your place HERE
Alpha
Mondays 4:30-6pm | January 12-March 14
Curious about faith? Join a series of group conversations that freely explore the basics of the Christian faith in an open, friendly environment. Everyone’s welcome. You’re invited, no matter your background or beliefs. It’s free and there’s no pressure to come back.
Meal & Fellowship Start the night with a meal shared among friends and family.
Fun Kids Club While adults hear a talk and engage in discussions, kids can enjoy a fun-filled Kids Club with activities and games!
Youth Alpha Youth will have their own space for Youth Alpha - bring your friends for an evening of fun and fellowship!
Coming up this month
Please visit pmch.org.uk/christmas for all events throughout December
Sunday 07 December
11am Morning Worship led by Sophie Chatten
7pm Evening Service & Communion led by Daniel Haylett
Sunday 14 December
No Morning Service
3pm Messy Christmas
7pm Evening Service led by Jonny Libby
Sunday 21 December
11am Morning worship & Communion Dave Martin (No Livestream)
7pm Carol Service led by Paul Courtney (Available to watch online)
Wednesday 24 December
7pm Christmas Eve Service with Holy Communion led by Martin Earl
Thursday 25 December
11am Christmas Day Service led by Dave Martin
Sunday 28 December
11am Christmas Walk - Meeting at PMCH
No Evening Service
For more information on services and groups at PMCH please visit www.pmch.org.uk