Our History

Emmanuel’s history is deeply intertwined with the founding of Southern Pines. In 1887, The Rev. Robert T. Thorne began his ministry in the Sandhills by leading regular services in the town’s schoolhouse. By 1889, records show the celebrations of Holy Communion, Baptism, and fundraising efforts for what would become the first church in Southern Pines. On May 17, 1891, the cornerstone for Emmanuel Episcopal Church was laid.

As the town and church community grew, Emmanuel Relocated to its current site in 1926 and build the present nave. Under the leadership of The Rev. Alaric J. Drew, the cornerstone for the new building was laid, and the parish began offering year-around services for the first time.

Since 1891, Emmanuel has been a vibrant force for Christian discipleship in the region, spreading the gospel through church planting, faith-based education, community outreach, and global mission efforts. Emmanuel’s entrepreneurial spirit is can be seen through numerous organizations, including: The Thrift Shop (1930), Episcopal Day School (1946), Penick Village (1946), The Sandhill’s Coalition for Human Care (1985), and Sandhill’s Habitat for Humanity (1985).

Rooted in the Gospel and inspired by the legacy of our faithful forbearers, we continue to reflect the light of Christ—faithfully and boldly—from generation to generation.

Our Mission

In witness to the love of God, whose glory is manifest in His Son Jesus Christ, we:

  • Worship the living God in the richness and variety of our Anglican heritage

  • Honor God with our substance as faithful and sacrificial stewards of his bounty

  • Seek and serve Christ in others, loving our neighbors as ourselves

  • Teach others to live and grow in the unity of the Holy Spirit, that all may know the power of forgiveness and the hope of resurrection

Our Vision

We envision Emmanuel as a place cherished by the people of God, where all may find nourishment for mind, heart, and spirit. Celebrating our faith with reverence and joy in liturgy and music, we then dedicate our resources to doing God’s work in the world. We affirm the ministry of both clergy and laity: honoring one another’s gifts, responding to the needs around us, reflecting the light of Christ from generation to generation.

Reflecting the light of Christ from generation to generation.