Our Story

### Our Beginning (2010)
On **January 17, 2010**, a Sunday, Pastor **Rev. Manar Chai** and his wife Hlu Naing, together with a small group of believers, started the church. The very first worship service was held in the home of U Myo Myint Aung in Glen Ellyn. Although only a handful of people gathered at the beginning, God’s grace and guidance caused the church to grow steadily.

A few months later, with the help of Harry Locker and Pastor Emmanuel, we moved to Wheaton Evangelical Free Church (WEFC), where we continued to worship and build spiritual foundations. This early season laid a strong base for everything that followed.

### Challenges and God’s Faithfulness
Over the years, we faced several moves. In 2014, WEFC became Compass Church, but we were able to continue worshiping there by God’s mercy. In 2018, due to space limitations, we were asked to find a new location — a real test of faith.

Through earnest prayer and trusting God’s leading, with the help of Durmomo Gery, we were blessed to worship at Wheaton First Presbyterian Church starting September 2, 2018. That transition became an important milestone in our journey of faith.

Then, in 2018, the church family began praying and planning to have our **own building**. After five years of faithful saving, giving, and prayer, God did the impossible: in **December 2022**, we purchased our current permanent home at
**1713 Howard Street, Saint Charles, Illinois 60174**.
This achievement stands as a powerful testimony to the power of prayer, unity, and God’s perfect provision.

### Growth, Mission, and Ministry
Over the past 15+ years, Immanuel Myanmar Church has grown in many ways:
- Hundreds have been baptized through our ministry
- Regular Bible studies, evangelism training, and Gospel preaching
- Pastor Manar Chai has traveled to other states, leading hundreds more to baptism
- Annual support and financial help sent to suffering areas in Myanmar
- Ongoing mission work in Dala Township, Yangon, where the Gospel is shared regularly

We place great importance on the next generation:
- Sunday School introduces children to Jesus — many have accepted Christ and been baptized
- Youth programs, summer Bible camps, and mission trips help young people grow in faith

### Our Enduring Legacy
Today, our church stands strong because of the faith, prayers, and unity of our members, and above all, because of God’s faithful protection, guidance, and provision throughout our history.

We remain committed to:
- Sharing Christ’s love with the lost
- Helping believers grow spiritually
- Nurturing the next generation in faith
- Continuing mission work both locally and in Myanmar

This history is not about us — it is a celebration of **God’s faithfulness**.
We give all glory to Him and declare that, in the name of Jesus Christ, Immanuel Myanmar Church will continue to stand as a fruitful, faithful church for generations to come.

**To God be the glory — may His name be exalted forever!** 🙏❤️

Whether you are visiting for the first time, seeking a place to worship in Burmese, or simply longing for a loving Christian family — **you are deeply welcome here**.

Come join us… Let’s experience God’s love and rest together.

**With love,**
**The Immanuel Myanmar Church Family**