St. Paul's-Eastern United Church
- Street:
- 473 Cumberland St
- City:
- Ottawa ,
- Province:
- Ontario
- Postal Code:
- K1N 7K1
- Country:
- Canada
fax: 613-237-9121
Located at the corner of Cumberland and Daly in the Sandy Hill neighborhood of downtown Ottawa, St. Paul's-Eastern United Church is home to a welcoming and supportive congregation with deep roots in the community and a strong sense of mission. The talented choir performs musical selections ranging from classical to contemporary sacred works with instrumentation that covers the full spectrum from the pipe organ to the infectious beat of African drums. The choir welcomes all lovers of music to assist in weekly anthems and special performances. The growing Sunday School starts off with the beginning of the worship service, followed by creative activities incorporating music, art and drama. The church also provides a caring home away from home for both students attending the nearby University of Ottawa and workers transferring to the city from points around the world. On any given Sunday, four generations of worshippers gather in the heritage sanctuary, with its circular seating and sloped floor designed in amphitheatre style. Once seated on the cushioned pews, the congregation members prepare for a worship experience that, like the congregation itself, features both the traditional and the innovative. During the week, the church partners with charitable organizations to serve Ottawa poor and homeless population, providing them with a safe, supportive environment, where they can enjoy a meal and benefit from health services. The stone Romanesque structure currently on the site was officially opened in 1889 as St. Paul's Presbyterian Church. With the birth of the United Church of Canada in 1925, St. Paul's was joined by the nearby Eastern Methodist Church. The newly constituted congregation became known as St. Paul's-Eastern United Church.
About the Service
Our Sunday worship service is held at 10:30 a.m. with a Sunday School and nursery during the school year. Coffee and refreshments are served in the church hall after the service.
About the Neighbourhood
St. Paul's-Eastern United Church is located in the downtown heart of Ottawa. Located on Cumberland Street between the busy byways of Rideau and Laurier, the church is an active force in a diverse community. Worshippers at St. Paul's-Eastern are drawn from all over Ottawa by the church's open-minded spirit. The neighborhood surroundings include the University of Ottawa, homeless shelters, residential streets, retirement homes and the Byward Market. The church is an inspiring presence in a community where social disparities are often highly visible. All are welcome in this eclectic community. Brunch in the Byward Market is just a stroll away.
Quick Facts
How do I get to your church on public transit?
The church is a few blocks from the Rideau Centre Transitway stop. Another option is to take the number 2 bus along Rideau Street to Cumberland St. The church is two blocks South.
What is offered for children?
Sunday School classes are held throughout the school year following the children's story during the worship service. A drop-in nursery is also available for pre-schoolers.
What happens after the service?
Coffee, tea and baked goods are available in the downstairs hall after the service. A warm welcome is extended to join in this weekly fellowship time.
What music is played during services?
Hymns and choir selections range from traditional to contemporary Christian music. The Music Director alternates between the church organ and the grand piano during the service.
Is the music always traditional?
Depending on the week, one can also hear the sounds of guitar, trumpet, African drums and the bagpipe.
Who do I contact with questions?
Please contact Stephen Anderson in the office or Rev. Laurie McKnight-Walker through the contact info listed above.
How do people dress for service?
On a typical Sunday, clothing ranges from dresses, suits and ties to jeans and sandals.
What does the "Eastern" signify in your name?
The congregation began as St. Paul's Presbyterian in the 1800s. When the United Church was formed in 1925, St. Paul's amalgamated with the nearby Eastern Methodist Church.
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