Our church is led by a team of Elders who are recognised by the members. We also recognise a number of Deacons who coordinate practical aspects of the church.
Pastor and Elders
Spencer Shaw
Spencer is our full-time Pastor and leads the team of elders. Spencer is married to Ruth and they have four adult sons and three lovely daughters in law. When Spencer manages to snatch a little spare time, he enjoys DIY, walking, keeping fit and reading war novels. He was an industrial Physicist for a number of years before joining the staff of a church in St Albans. After training for ministry the family came to Chippenham in 2001 and he has been the Pastor at Emmanuel since its foundation. Spencer is also a UBM leader, Co-chairs the steering committee of the South West Gospel Partnership and Chairs the Trust Board of A Passion For Life.
William Brown
William is married to Rosalind and they have two sons and three daughters. They moved to Wiltshire from Northern Ireland in 2013 for William to take up his role with UFM Worldwide in Swindon. Previously they were missionaries with UFM in Ivory Coast but were evacuated due to civil war there. William enjoys spending time with his family, reading and walking his dog, Holly.
Marc Thomas
Marc is married to Ruth and they have a son, daughter, daughter-in-law and son-in-law. Brought up in South Wales and married in 1991, Marc and Ruth are now Secondary School teachers and have been involved at Emmanuel since 2009. Marc has had the oversight of the Sunday School for several years. He relaxes by watching movies and the exploits of the Welsh rugby team, reading thrillers and trying to enjoy regular visits to the gym.
Dave Evans
Dave and his wife Pippa moved to Chippenham in 2013 for work as he is an engineer. They have 3 children and love camping together. Dave enjoys relaxing by playing the piano, having impromptu board games and going for walks. He leads the Emmanuel evangelism committee, thinking about ways to share Jesus with everyone in and around Chippenham.
Assistant Pastor
James Howlett
James is married to Rosie and they have 3 young children. They moved to Chippenham in 2023 for James to become Assistant Pastor. Prior to this James worked as a statistician in medical research for 9 years. He enjoys most sports, although this is following rather than participating now. James is also a UBM leader.
Church Administrator
Karen Macallister – contact Karen by clicking here
Church Secretary
Nick Court