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Frequently Asked Questions

  • We hope so! Runnymede is a welcoming space. There is so much to discover here in terms of spirituality, connection, and community. Have a look around the website to see what catches your eye and join our email list — both of these will give you a good idea about all that Runnymede has to offer you. Give us a try!

  • Yes! Runnymede United is an inclusive church that seeks to make a positive difference in the lives of its members and the world that we live in. Everyone is welcome. Really!

  • The United Church of Canada is a Protestant denomination founded in 1925. In fact, we’re the only church organization founded by an act of Parliament! United Church faith communities welcome people from all backgrounds and sexual orientations, wherever you are in your faith journey. Click on this link to learn more: United Church of Canada

  • Faith is about questions. No matter where you are in your faith journey--a committed believer or someone with deep questions--you are welcome at Runnymede United. Many people come to Runnymede United with no church background or experience and that is great. Bring your questions, bring your doubts and share in finding answers with all of us.

  • In a world with so many possibilities and outlets for our time and resources, why do people still go to church? Runnymede United Church is a place for learning about faith, sharing in worship, and living out our faith as we learn about it from Jesus Christ. It is a multi-generational community that supports one another, eats together, laughs together, and provides a safe space to ask questions and give answers. Church is not a building, church is people and the people of Runnymede United Church are inclusive and generous. Runnymede United is a community where you belong as you are, how you are, as you are comfortable.

  • Runnymede United Church is proud to have become an Affirming Ministry in 2021. Yes, you are safe here. For more information on what Affirming means, go to Affirm United.

  • Children, youth, and young families are very welcome at Runnymede United! Our Family Outreach and Christian Education Leader, Ellen Toompuu leads a team of Sunday School teachers to learn about faith and God’s world on Sunday mornings. There are also opportunities outside of Sunday mornings for social fun and community projects. Of course, your child is welcome to stay by your side during Sunday morning service, but most children and youth love to participate in our programming made especially for them!

  • Runnymede United is wheelchair accessible from the north side door. We have an elevator for access to Memorial Hall in the lower level, which is also where accessible washrooms are located. We have hearing assistance devices available for use during service. Our website is compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy what Runnymede United has to offer. Click on the Accessibility Icon to explore those features.

  • First, wear whatever you're comfortable wearing to come to Sunday service. Many people dress very casually. If you'd like to attend service in person, you're welcome to enter through the side door on the south side. There is an accessible ramp on the north side door. Parking is available along Runnymede Road or across the street in the school parking lot. You can sit wherever you're comfortable. There is no assigned seating. The order of service is posted weekly to help guide you through the service. It's all very easy to follow along. Relax and enjoy!

  • There is no fee to attend worship or to be a part of Runnymede United Church. There are ways to donate to Runnymede United as you are comfortable and able to do. The offerings that are received support the work of the congregation and the expenses involved with maintaining the building and property so it can be available for the congregation and community.

  • All are invited to receive communion at Runnymede United Church without exclusion. This is the table of Jesus Christ; it is not the table of Runnymede United Church or the United Church of Canada. All of God’s people are welcome at the meal, take and be refreshed, knowing that you are one of God’s beloved children.

  • Runnymede continues to innovate and refine its online offering. The online worship service is a broadcast of the in-person experience so you can watch from wherever you are comfortable and at the time that suits you. Check the link under Sunday Morning for previous services to worship with Runnymede United and know that you are welcome to worship online or in person as you are comfortable. Our service goes live online at 10:30 am on Sunday mornings and is available anytime after that.

  • No, come any time of year that you'd like. Or join our community online anytime.

  • Sure! We look forward to meeting you and your child soon! Or stay awhile; you might enjoy the service!

  • Don't worry. You won't have to sing if you don't feel comfortable doing so. The words are provided if you do feel like it, though. There are some responsive readings and prayers in worship, but you won’t be called up in front of everyone to speak.

  • Yes! We'd love to welcome new members to the choir! Contact David Ambrose or the church office for more information.

  • The people of Runnymede United make an effort to welcome visitors and there are social opportunities online and in person to meet and get to know others. You are welcome to socialize and introduce yourself as you are comfortable at your pace. As the sign says out front, "You Belong Here”.

  • Yes! You're welcome to join any of our small group sessions. It's a great way to meet people and get a sense of our vibrant community.

  • Yes! Many people in our community came first as volunteers. Many stayed just as volunteers, and many others found other areas of our community to become involved with.

  • Thanks for noticing! Yes! We wanted a fresh look that celebrated our beautiful church building.