Willowgrove United Church

Built in 1968, Willowgrove is the result of the amalgamation of two nearby "neighbourhood" churches: Bruce Hill Mission, and Grace United, which were later joined by a third church, Tarentorus United. The church has the feel of "a country church in the heart of the city." A recently-completed accessibility renovation project provides for easy access to both the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall entrances, allowing us to better meet the needs of all congregants.

About the Service

Our Worship Service starts at 10:30 am, and includes children's Sunday School. A mostly traditional service with occasional contemporary elements, our service is all about the message.

About the Neighbourhood

Nestled into the heart of the City, Willowgrove is located half a block from Great Northern Road (Hwy 17 N), and surrounded by working-class homes and apartments complexes which were built as the City expanded northward in the early 1960s.

Quick Facts

What time does the service start, and how long is it?

The service starts at 10:30 am, and generally runs about on hour in length.

Is there a program for children?

Yes! We have a very active Children's Program. Children begin worship with the congregation, and then after a brief "Children's Time," head out to Sunday School. Dedicated volunteers provide exciting and interesting activities for ch

What about activities for youth?

Our Youth are involved in assisting with Sunday School and other congregational activities.

What's heavenly about your church?

The fellowship that exists amongst the congregation, and the openness and sense of welcome felt by new-comers and long-timers alike.

What music is played during services?

Wonderful organ or piano preludes and postludes; a wide-selection of traditional and contemporary hymns from Voices United; and truly inspirational anthems from our amazing choir. Special guests share their talents with us, from time to time.

How do people dress for service?

Some do dress-up, some wear 'business casual,' and others are just casual; each person dresses in a manner they find most comfortable.

What happens after the service?

Casual conversation occurs most Sundays. About once a month there is a coffee-hour hosted by one of the UCW Units or other groups in the "Fellowship Hall."

What other mid-week activities are there?

Yes, plenty! UCW Unit meetings, "Seniors & Friends," "Men at Ten," "Something from Nothing," and various mid-week community groups.

Who do I contact with questions?

Bruce is always willing to answer any questions you may have, or you can contact Daphne in the office.

Church Minister

Bruce McLeish, BA, MDiv

 

Bruce McLeish has been bringing us thoughtful and inspiring sermons and respectful and nurturing Pastoral Care for nearly 14 years.

 

Raised in the United Church, Bruce first became an Anglican priest and served as a Chaplain in the Canadian Forces and, most recently, as Chaplain at the Plummer Hospital. He was received as a United Church Minister in 1998 upon answering the Call to serve at Willowgrove.

 

Bruce will be retiring at th end of April, 2011. We have recently embarked upon the JNAC process as we begin to discern our needs prior to having the pulpit declared vacant.
 

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