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100 Years Young


How exciting to be working in congregational ministry at this moment in time in the history of the United Church of Canada. I have quite literally been born and raised within the United Church, and one could argue, that in fact I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the United Church. Once upon a time, when a certain Methodist congregation joined up with a certain Presbyterian congregation in 1925, the scene was set for my grandmother to meet my grandfather. The rest is history, as they say.

I have fond memories from the variety of congregations my family and I have been associated with over the years. What stands out for me the most, not only from my memories, but from hearing your stories too, is how many amazing opportunities to learn and grow together have been made available because of who we are as the United Church. This truly is a denomination that welcomes inquiring minds, offers spiritual nurture to all ages and stages, and seeks to be relevant to what is going on in the world. The congregations across the country that are active and healthy, are typically ones who have learned to morph into different ways of being together according to the changing needs of the community.

This Sunday we will join with United Church congregations across Canada in celebration of who and what we are in this moment in time, 100 years young! There will be something for everyone at Sunnybrook, so plan to take in all or some of the festivities: Pentecost Sunday Worship at 10:30, hot dog lunch to follow, and the National Service Watch Party coming to us live from Newfoundland, complete with popcorn and punch. The party starts at 3:00 and the service begins at 3:30. Our friends from Gaetz are coming too!


The United Church of Canada is my spiritual home in many ways. I am glad to have played an active part in the history of our church, and I look forward to what is still to come. Happy Birthday!

Peace and joy,

Nancy