Transforming Space For Faith » Ministry to our Community

As Christians, we are called to spread the good news. This means connecting with the community outside our own church, and inviting them in to experience Christian life and fellowship. Our renewed premises will be much warmer and inviting, attracting newcomers from the street level and generating a sense of belonging from the moment they step through our doors.
The church entrances will be beautified and more easily identifiable. We have already made the Duplex Avenue entrance more approachable with glass doors, and soon new entrance steps will be completed. We will renovate the Briar Hill entrance so that it is more inviting and accessible, including beautiful landscaping on the north-east corner of the church where there will be a terrace for quiet contemplation, for receptions after services and special functions. New gardens are being planned around the terrace. Imagine stepping out of the narthex onto a pleasant outdoor area for coffee hour. It is also a guaranteed photo opportunity for weddings!
When the work is complete, the existing Reception Room and General Office will be renovated to become a large, flexible community gathering space connected to the narthex at the back of the worship space, thus visibly encouraging people to stay and socialize after services. The overall effect will be inviting and luminous, a physical expression of our commitment to build a welcoming community.

Accessibility is essential to creating a welcoming environment. Prior to the building project, key areas of our building were inaccessible to people with mobility concerns. After completion of the building project 90% of the building will be fully accessible. In addition, the new 40-space parking lot on the west side of the building, including parking spaces for the disabled, will have new walkways to both the Briar Hill Avenue and St. Clements Avenue entrances.

Strong and Sustainable Community

As we grow by re-kindling existing ministries and adding new ones, we must support our pastoral and administrative staff in their work. We all have an interest in facilities that promote safety and security, and make the most efficient and sustainable use of our precious resources.

The building plan will see staff offices, currently scattered around the building, relocated in one area by the St Clement’s Avenue entrance. Communication, collegiality and teamwork will be promoted amongst our staff, and they will be assured of greater personal security.

Operational costs will be reduced by office consolidation, as we will only need to heat or cool certain areas of the building and not the full 44,000 square feet at all hours of every day. In addition, we will invest in updates and improvements to our heating and cooling systems, and pursue the sustainable “greening” of the church wherever possible.

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