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.
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.
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
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!
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!
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.
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
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!
Christmas Pageant
All our welcome for a fun morning for family and friends as we celebrate the Christmas season.
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.
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
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!
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.
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
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.
Christmas Eve Service
Attend any of our Christmas Eve services on Tuesday, December 24th on our Runnymede Campus.
5:00 pm - Family Service
7:00 pm - Lessons & Carols Service & Communion
11:00 pm - Reflective Service & Communion
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!
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
Family Movie Screening
Come to our movie night for a night of laughs, wonder, and fellowship. All are welcome!
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.
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!
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.
Good Friday
Continue your journey through Holy Week with this sacred service.
Service will be in-person and livestreamed.
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.
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.
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
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.
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!
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
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.
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!
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
100th Anniversary Presentation: Remembering Them
Remembrance Week Project
"They walked these streets...
We will remember them"
presents
On "Active" Service-stories from the field and on the homefront during World War I and II.
This event is part of the Centennial Celebrations of Runnymede United Church, and the monthly meeting of the West Toronto Junction Historical Society.
Hear stories about soldiers from all military forces who walked these streets in West Toronto by project co-ordinator, Katy Whitfield.
Learn more about the soldiers' service and community responses on the Home Front through curated displays of historic artifacts, photographs, and letters. Some of the source materials are from the Runnymede United Church Archives.
Kids can make pool noodle poppies that will be added to our neighbourhood commemorative displays, do a scavenger hunt with info-cards or make a Remembrance Day poster to take home.
Join your friends, neighbours and community members to pause, reflect and remember.
Light refreshments will be provided. All are welcome. This is a kid-friendly event. Venue is accessible. Elevator at northeast entrance off of Runnymede Road.
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.
Village of Love Square Dancing
A little movement and lots of laughter is always a good thing! On Saturday, November 2, Village of Love Canada is holding an evening of square and line dancing at Runnymede United Church. No experience or partner required. Everyone is welcome. Tickets are $20, or be a Village Champion and purchase a $40 ticket. All proceeds are in support of Village of Love, Canada an organization making a difference in the lives of children orphaned by AIDS. Get your friends together and get your tickets here.
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
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.
Guest Preacher, Past Moderator Mardi Tindal (RC)
We are excited to welcome Mardi Tindal to Runnymede on October 27th as part of our Centennial Celebration! A former Moderator of The United Church of Canada and a highly respected leader, Mardi has inspired many as an educator, retreat director, writer, and broadcaster. She has worked with faith leaders globally, focusing on healing and renewal, and was honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. Mardi will share her reflections on John 12:24-25, a passage from the United Church’s inaugural service in 1925. All are welcome to hear from a remarkable voice in our faith community online or in-person on our Runnymede Campus.
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!
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
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.
Zoom Bible Study
Curious about the Bible? All are welcome to this time of weekly reflection, as we explore Sunday's passages together. No experience required!
Contemplation & Conversation
Join this group that meets weekly to reflect and converse about life, faith, and more.
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.
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
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!
Christmas Pageant - Sunday, December 8th at 10:30am
We’re excited for our annual Christmas pageant in worship on our Runnymede Campus!
Carols by Candlelight - December 15th at 7:00pm
We keep the Christmas magic alive with our annual Carols by Candlelight concert, followed by a reception filled with cookies and treats. A big thanks to everyone, especially the musicians, for making this night so beautiful!
Longest Night Service - December 20th at 7pm (Windermere Campus)
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.
Christmas Eve Services - December 24th at 5pm, 7pm, and 11pm
Attend any of our Christmas Eve services on Tuesday, December 24th on 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 are welcome to this service as we usher 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)