Faith Lived

Church Activities and Events

We have plenty of activities!

Click a season below to read about our special events during the season, or scroll down to view our calendar and list of events in the community.

Interactive "Exploring Worship" Service
Jan
19

Interactive "Exploring Worship" Service

On Sunday, January 19th, Ted, Laura, and David will lead the congregation in a service that explores the different elements of a typical worship service. This gathering will be a chance for us to explore why we worship, and how our liturgy invites us to connect with God and one another. Those worshipping in-person will gather in Memorial Hall. Those worshipping online will gather on Zoom. We look forward to trying something new and learning together!

View Event →
Winter Book Study
Jan
22

Winter Book Study

THE MYSTICS WOULD LIKE A WORD : SIX WOMEN WHO MET GOD AND FOUND A SPIRITUALITY FOR TODAY

By Shannon K. Evans

Join in a lively discussion about an array of modern topics (including patriarchy, social justice, mental illness, gender expression and ecology) covered in the writings by six forward-thinking mystics - Teresa of Ávila, Margery Kempe, Hildegard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, Catherine of Siena and Thérèse of Lisieux – all women who ‘experienced a glimpse of the eternal and chose to pursue more’. Writing from 1000 to just over 100 years ago, what did these women experience that still resonates with spiritual seekers today …

When: 7pm Wednesdays, January 22nd to March 5th

Where: Kingsbury Room and online via Zoom

Facilitators: Brenda Lien (in person) & Karrie Phair (online)

Contact Brenda Lien to sign up.

All are welcome – bring a friend!

View Event →
Winter Book Study
Jan
29

Winter Book Study

THE MYSTICS WOULD LIKE A WORD : SIX WOMEN WHO MET GOD AND FOUND A SPIRITUALITY FOR TODAY

By Shannon K. Evans

Join in a lively discussion about an array of modern topics (including patriarchy, social justice, mental illness, gender expression and ecology) covered in the writings by six forward-thinking mystics - Teresa of Ávila, Margery Kempe, Hildegard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, Catherine of Siena and Thérèse of Lisieux – all women who ‘experienced a glimpse of the eternal and chose to pursue more’. Writing from 1000 to just over 100 years ago, what did these women experience that still resonates with spiritual seekers today …

When: 7pm Wednesdays, January 22nd to March 5th

Where: Kingsbury Room and online via Zoom

Facilitators: Brenda Lien (in person) & Karrie Phair (online)

Contact Brenda Lien to sign up.

All are welcome – bring a friend!

View Event →
Gala Anniversary Dinner
Feb
1

Gala Anniversary Dinner

Runnymede United Church is turning 100 and we’re throwing a celebration fit for the occasion!

To mark this milestone, we’re Puttin’ on the Ritz in Memorial Hall, Saturday, February 1st at 6:30 pm. Step back into the Jazz Age with flappers, feathers and fedoras, gangsters, grifters, glam and glitz!  

Enjoy a sumptuous four-course dinner, swingin’ live entertainment and sneak a sip at the Speakeasy libation station! 

Step out in your most creative and glamorous 1920s attire and help us celebrate in style!

Tickets are $50 per person – each one enters you into a draw for some exciting prizes.

Get your tickets here!

View Event →
Guest Preacher, Rev. Michael Blair
Feb
2

Guest Preacher, Rev. Michael Blair

We are pleased to welcome Rev. Michael Blair, General Secretary of The United Church of Canada, as a guest preacher at Runnymede on February 2nd! Rev. Blair, the first person of African descent to hold this role, has served the church in many capacities, including Executive Minister for Ethnic Ministry and Church in Mission. He’s also been a community chaplain and Executive Director of the Toronto Christian Resource Center in Regent Park.

A passionate leader, Rev. Blair will share his insights on faith, mission, and community, drawing from his rich experiences. Don’t miss this chance to hear from one of the church’s inspiring voices online or in-person at our Runnymede Campus.

View Event →
Winter Book Study
Feb
5

Winter Book Study

THE MYSTICS WOULD LIKE A WORD : SIX WOMEN WHO MET GOD AND FOUND A SPIRITUALITY FOR TODAY

By Shannon K. Evans

Join in a lively discussion about an array of modern topics (including patriarchy, social justice, mental illness, gender expression and ecology) covered in the writings by six forward-thinking mystics - Teresa of Ávila, Margery Kempe, Hildegard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, Catherine of Siena and Thérèse of Lisieux – all women who ‘experienced a glimpse of the eternal and chose to pursue more’. Writing from 1000 to just over 100 years ago, what did these women experience that still resonates with spiritual seekers today …

When: 7pm Wednesdays, January 22nd to March 5th

Where: Kingsbury Room and online via Zoom

Facilitators: Brenda Lien (in person) & Karrie Phair (online)

Contact Brenda Lien to sign up.

All are welcome – bring a friend!

View Event →
Seeking the Spirit
Feb
5

Seeking the Spirit

All are welcome to our Seeking the Spirit worship series coordinated by Rev. Laura. These services are a chance to worship in a different style than Sunday morning. Expect gatherings that are creative, intimate, and a little different every time! 

View Event →
Winter Book Study
Feb
12

Winter Book Study

THE MYSTICS WOULD LIKE A WORD : SIX WOMEN WHO MET GOD AND FOUND A SPIRITUALITY FOR TODAY

By Shannon K. Evans

Join in a lively discussion about an array of modern topics (including patriarchy, social justice, mental illness, gender expression and ecology) covered in the writings by six forward-thinking mystics - Teresa of Ávila, Margery Kempe, Hildegard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, Catherine of Siena and Thérèse of Lisieux – all women who ‘experienced a glimpse of the eternal and chose to pursue more’. Writing from 1000 to just over 100 years ago, what did these women experience that still resonates with spiritual seekers today …

When: 7pm Wednesdays, January 22nd to March 5th

Where: Kingsbury Room and online via Zoom

Facilitators: Brenda Lien (in person) & Karrie Phair (online)

Contact Brenda Lien to sign up.

All are welcome – bring a friend!

View Event →
Winter Book Study
Feb
19

Winter Book Study

THE MYSTICS WOULD LIKE A WORD : SIX WOMEN WHO MET GOD AND FOUND A SPIRITUALITY FOR TODAY

By Shannon K. Evans

Join in a lively discussion about an array of modern topics (including patriarchy, social justice, mental illness, gender expression and ecology) covered in the writings by six forward-thinking mystics - Teresa of Ávila, Margery Kempe, Hildegard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, Catherine of Siena and Thérèse of Lisieux – all women who ‘experienced a glimpse of the eternal and chose to pursue more’. Writing from 1000 to just over 100 years ago, what did these women experience that still resonates with spiritual seekers today …

When: 7pm Wednesdays, January 22nd to March 5th

Where: Kingsbury Room and online via Zoom

Facilitators: Brenda Lien (in person) & Karrie Phair (online)

Contact Brenda Lien to sign up.

All are welcome – bring a friend!

View Event →
Winter Book Study
Feb
26

Winter Book Study

THE MYSTICS WOULD LIKE A WORD : SIX WOMEN WHO MET GOD AND FOUND A SPIRITUALITY FOR TODAY

By Shannon K. Evans

Join in a lively discussion about an array of modern topics (including patriarchy, social justice, mental illness, gender expression and ecology) covered in the writings by six forward-thinking mystics - Teresa of Ávila, Margery Kempe, Hildegard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, Catherine of Siena and Thérèse of Lisieux – all women who ‘experienced a glimpse of the eternal and chose to pursue more’. Writing from 1000 to just over 100 years ago, what did these women experience that still resonates with spiritual seekers today …

When: 7pm Wednesdays, January 22nd to March 5th

Where: Kingsbury Room and online via Zoom

Facilitators: Brenda Lien (in person) & Karrie Phair (online)

Contact Brenda Lien to sign up.

All are welcome – bring a friend!

View Event →
Winter Book Study
Mar
5

Winter Book Study

THE MYSTICS WOULD LIKE A WORD : SIX WOMEN WHO MET GOD AND FOUND A SPIRITUALITY FOR TODAY

By Shannon K. Evans

Join in a lively discussion about an array of modern topics (including patriarchy, social justice, mental illness, gender expression and ecology) covered in the writings by six forward-thinking mystics - Teresa of Ávila, Margery Kempe, Hildegard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, Catherine of Siena and Thérèse of Lisieux – all women who ‘experienced a glimpse of the eternal and chose to pursue more’. Writing from 1000 to just over 100 years ago, what did these women experience that still resonates with spiritual seekers today …

When: 7pm Wednesdays, January 22nd to March 5th

Where: Kingsbury Room and online via Zoom

Facilitators: Brenda Lien (in person) & Karrie Phair (online)

Contact Brenda Lien to sign up.

All are welcome – bring a friend!

View Event →
Guest Preacher, Rev. Jennifer Henry
Mar
16

Guest Preacher, Rev. Jennifer Henry

We’re delighted to welcome Rev. Jennifer Henry as a guest preacher at Runnymede on March 16th! Ordained in 2023, Rev. Jennifer is the Executive Minister for Organizational Development and Strategy for The United Church of Canada. With nearly 30 years of experience as a passionate social justice advocate, including serving as Executive Director of KAIROS, Jennifer has worked tirelessly on behalf of Canadian churches. She holds multiple degrees, including a Master of Social Work and Theological Studies, and an Honorary Doctorate from Lutheran Theological Seminary. All are welcome to hear from a remarkable voice in our faith community online or in-person at our Runnymede Campus.

View Event →
Easter Sunday Services
Apr
20

Easter Sunday Services

Everyone is warmly invited to join in celebrating this sacred day! The service will include uplifting Easter music, an open communion for all, and a joyful spirit of celebration!

Service is in-person and livestreamed.

View Event →
100th Anniversary Service & Reception
Jun
8

100th Anniversary Service & Reception

We’re celebrating this milestone with a special anniversary service with Guest Preacher, Rev. Linda Levin and a reception to follow. Linda served as Runnymede United’s minister for 29 years and has had an incredible journey—from growing up in a Jewish home in apartheid South Africa to being ordained in 1979. Since retiring, Linda founded Village of Love Canada, supporting Kenyan women who care for AIDS-orphaned children in the Kibera slums. We’re excited to have her lead us in worship during this special month!

The service will be in-person and livestreamed.

View Event →

Community Meal
Dec
28

Community Meal

All are welcome for our free Community Meal. Doors open at 4pm and a delicious, three course dinner is served at 5pm. See you for dinner! 

View Event →
Longest Night Service
Dec
20

Longest Night Service

Join this special service filled with beautiful music, reflection, and a celebration of the solstice. This evening will offer moments for contemplation, uplifting music, and a joyful acknowledgment of the light returning. All are welcome to join in this unique and meaningful experience.

View Event →
Carols by Candlelight
Dec
15

Carols by Candlelight

Join Runnymede United Church for a beautiful candlelit concert and sing the songs of the season! Enjoy an evening of uplifting carols, featuring talented musicians in a warm and festive atmosphere. After the concert, stay for a reception in Memorial Hall with delicious treats and holiday cheer. All are welcome!

View Event →
Being With Study
Dec
9

Being With Study

Join Rev. Laura, Brenda Lien, and Karrie Phair-Harvey in a faith formation study this fall.

This ten session study will be a chance to explore the Christian faith together. In the words of the developers of this course, "Being With helps people consider Christian faith in new and refreshing ways, without needing prior knowledge, but a simple willingness to share what you do know or feel. There are no experts in the room. What you may be feeling is as important as what you may be thinking.

View Event →
Seeking the Spirit
Dec
4

Seeking the Spirit

All are welcome to our Seeking the Spirit worship series coordinated by Rev. Laura. These services are a chance to worship in a different style than Sunday morning. Expect gatherings that are creative, intimate, and a little different every time! 

View Event →
Being With Study
Dec
2

Being With Study

Join Rev. Laura, Brenda Lien, and Karrie Phair-Harvey in a faith formation study this fall.

This ten session study will be a chance to explore the Christian faith together. In the words of the developers of this course, "Being With helps people consider Christian faith in new and refreshing ways, without needing prior knowledge, but a simple willingness to share what you do know or feel. There are no experts in the room. What you may be feeling is as important as what you may be thinking.

View Event →
Dickens: A Christmas Carol Reading
Dec
1

Dickens: A Christmas Carol Reading

Join us for a reading of the holiday favourite by celebrity readers with special musical guests, including award winning actors Lisa Horner (Come From Away) and Barbara Gordon (The Boys, Murdoch Mysteries), and CBC's Susan Ormiston and Jeff Douglas. Get your tickets now!

All proceeds going to the Food Community Outreach Program in support of Bloor West Food Bank.

A Christmas tradition!

View Event →
Community Meal
Nov
30

Community Meal

All are welcome for our free Community Meal. Doors open at 4pm and a delicious, three course dinner is served at 5pm. See you for dinner! 

View Event →
Being With Study
Nov
25

Being With Study

Join Rev. Laura, Brenda Lien, and Karrie Phair-Harvey in a faith formation study this fall.

This ten session study will be a chance to explore the Christian faith together. In the words of the developers of this course, "Being With helps people consider Christian faith in new and refreshing ways, without needing prior knowledge, but a simple willingness to share what you do know or feel. There are no experts in the room. What you may be feeling is as important as what you may be thinking.

View Event →
Being With Study
Nov
18

Being With Study

Join Rev. Laura, Brenda Lien, and Karrie Phair-Harvey in a faith formation study this fall.

This ten session study will be a chance to explore the Christian faith together. In the words of the developers of this course, "Being With helps people consider Christian faith in new and refreshing ways, without needing prior knowledge, but a simple willingness to share what you do know or feel. There are no experts in the room. What you may be feeling is as important as what you may be thinking.

View Event →
Nov
17

Family Movie Screening

All are invited to our family movie screening on Sunday, November 17th, in the Kingsbury Room. Celebrate 100 wonderful years together at Runnymede with us!

  • Lunch and popcorn will be served at this free event.

  • Bring along family and friends!

We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

View Event →
Being With Study
Nov
11

Being With Study

Join Rev. Laura, Brenda Lien, and Karrie Phair-Harvey in a faith formation study this fall.

This ten session study will be a chance to explore the Christian faith together. In the words of the developers of this course, "Being With helps people consider Christian faith in new and refreshing ways, without needing prior knowledge, but a simple willingness to share what you do know or feel. There are no experts in the room. What you may be feeling is as important as what you may be thinking.

View Event →

Runnymede United Church has special Sundays and events throughout the year, as well as a wide variety of church activities. Below is an overall description of events and activities to look forward to in the year ahead.

Summer

Vacation Bible Camp

Our Vacation Bible Camp was a blast! The kids spent the week creating cool art, enjoying yummy snacks, and even completing a scavenger hunt! We're so grateful to everyone who has made this camp a success. What a great way to enjoy the summer!

Read our blog post to learn more about what we got up to this summer.

Fall

Here’s what we were up to during the fall of 2023…

Covenanting Service with Rev. Laura — Sunday, September 15th — 10:30 am

To celebrate our Engagement & Growth Minister, Rev. Laura Gallagher-Doucette’s full-time call with our congregation, we have a covenanting service on Sunday, September 15th at 10:30am in-person at our Runnymede Campus and online on YouTube.

Outdoor Service & Annual Church BBQ — Sunday, September 22nd — after worship

On Sunday, September 22nd, we will gather for worship outside on our front lawn. Following worship, will be our yearly church BBQ.

Orange Shirt Day — Sunday, September 29th

On Sunday, September 29th, we mark Orange Shirt Day to commemorate those sent to Residential School.

Thanksgiving Sunday — Sunday, October 13th

Reformation Sunday — Sunday, October 27th

Bloor West Village Arts and Craft Show — November 9th, 2023

Each fall, Runnymede United hosts the Bloor West Village Arts and Craft Show. This event is a great place for your holiday shopping, connecting with friends, and stocking up on baked goods.

Remembrance Sunday — Sunday, November 10th

Advent and Christmas

Here’s what we are looking forward to during Advent and Christmas 2024…

Advent and Christmas 2024

Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” Reading - Sunday, December 1st at 7pm

We were thrilled to host a reading of the holiday favorite by celebrity readers with special musical guests, including award-winning actors Lisa Horner (Come From Away) and Barbara Gordon (The Boys, Murdoch Mysteries), as well as CBC's Susan Ormiston and Jeff Douglas.

All proceeds went to the Food Community Outreach Program in support of the Bloor West Food Bank.

It was a cherished Christmas tradition!

Christmas Pageant - Sunday, December 8th at 10:30am

We celebrated our annual Christmas pageant during worship on our Runnymede Campus.

Carols by Candlelight - December 15th at 7:00pm

We kept the Christmas magic alive with our annual Carols by Candlelight concert, followed by a reception filled with cookies and treats. A big thank-you to everyone, especially the musicians, for making the evening so beautiful!

Longest Night Service - December 20th at 7pm (Windermere Campus)

This special service featured beautiful music, reflection, and a celebration of the solstice. The evening provided moments for contemplation, uplifting music, and a joyful acknowledgment of the light returning. It was a unique and meaningful experience for all who joined.

Christmas Eve Services - December 24th at 5pm, 7pm, and 11pm

Thanks to all who attend our Christmas Eve services on Tuesday, December 24th at our Runnymede Campus:

5:00 pm - Family Service

7:00 pm - Lessons & Carols Service & Communion

11:00 pm - Reflective Service & Communion

Lent and Easter

On Shrove Tuesday, February 13th, we enjoyed a feast of pancakes, sausages, fruit, and treats at our Runnymede Campus from 5:00-7:00pm!

Lent & Easter 2024

Lent

On Wednesday, February 14th, we marked Ash Wednesday online and in-person at our Windermere Campus at 7:30pm. All were welcome to this service as we ushered in this new season in our church year. Contact Laura Gallagher-Doucette with questions.

Rev. Ted ran his yearly Lenten Study with the United Church’s resource Act Fast: Spiritual Practices for a Climate in Crisis.

Holy Week

Palm Sunday - Sunday, March 24th - 10:30am (online & in-person at our Runnymede Campus)

Maundy Thursday - Thursday, March 28th - 7:00pm (in-person only - Runnymede Campus)

Good Friday - Friday, March 29th - 10:30am (online & in-person at our Runnymede Campus)

Holy Saturday - Saturday, March 30th - 7:00pm (in-person at our Runnymede Campus)

Easter

Easter Sunrise Service - Sunday, March 31st - 7:30am (in-person only - Humber River)

Easter Communion Service - Sunday, March 31st - 10:30am (online & in-person at our Runnymede Campus)

Easter Grenadier Retirement Residence Service - Sunday, March 31st - 2:00pm (in-person at the Grenadier Retirement Residence)