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News and Events from Sydenham Street United Church

Thank you for your daily support in the Next Great Save, the Spire won $10,000.

These funds will go towards replacing The Spire’s old heating system with heat pumps, making the space more green and efficient. No more cold winter services in our future!

Rev. Catherine will be off for a combination of sabbatical and vacation time from May 1 to September 1, 2026. 

A sabbatical is an intentional break from congregational ministry designed for rest, renewal, study, and spiritual growth. A combination of lay leaders and ministers will provide pulpit supply and pastoral coverage in her absence. For pastoral emergencies (including funerals) from May to September, contact the church office, your Circle of Companionship point person, or Vicki Ruthven, Chair of Worship Committee.

2026 Hiliker Preaching Lectureship

Over 60 people attended the 2026 Hilliker Preaching Lectureship at Sydenham Street United Church on Saturday, 18 April 2026. Rev. Dr. John Pentland, Hillhurst United Church, Calgary, Alberta, led a workshop on “Connection in a World of Disconnection Cultivating purpose, meaning and connection in our lives and communities today.”As part of the Hilliker Preaching Lectureship, he also shared his message at the church service at Chalmers United Church on Sunday, 19 April.

Rev. Elizabeth Guillaume-Koene, Rev. Dr. John Pentland, Rev. Dr. Wayne Hilliker, Rev. Catherine Elsdon

We have a New Logo! Read more about it here

  • We were blessed to have Marie Wilson, Canadian journalist and one of the three Truth and Reconciliation Commission commissioners, and Stephen Kakfwi, Dene leader and former Northwest Territories Premier, participate in worship with us on February 22nd, on the topic “Ten Years Forward: Reflections on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report”
  • KEY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: VACANCIES for 2025-26:
    • ENGAGING THE SPIRIT: Affirm Action Group Coordinator
    • EXECUTIVE: Future Chair, Member-at-Large
    • COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE: Member
    • BOARD OF TRUSTEES, Trustee

For more information, please contact Deborah Elliott

  • Looking for a Simple Way to Make a Big Difference?
  • The Helen Tufts Child Outreach Program is looking for a few friendly volunteer drivers on Monday or Wednesday evenings. It’s just a 1–2 hour commitment – you’d simply drive children to the program and/or bring them home again. This program is located at SSU. Reliable transportation helps remove barriers for these kids, and your help can open the door to their full participation. If you’re curious, interested, or want to learn more, reach out to helen.tufts@sydenhamstreet.ca
  • Minute for Outreach 2025 09 28
  • Narthex Story Wall: Take a Look! Browse the installation on the Narthex Wall the next time you are in Sydenham Street United Church in The Spire. We expect that you will find surprises and inspiration as you learn a bit about the activities of the people of this community and the role of this heritage building over many generations. (2024 02 19)

News and Events from the Kingston Community

  • Check out our Community Outreach page for upcoming local community initiatives and events

News and Events from East and Central Regional Council (ECORC)

News and Events from General Council Office, United Church of  Canada 

Our website is constantly being updated. Explore the various top menus often!

If you are new to Sydenham Street United Church, we invite you to make yourself known to us by sending a note to: web@sydenhamstreet.ca. Please contact us at this same e-address, if you have any questions or wish to receive by email the weekly News from Sydenham Street United Church.

Updated 2026 04 30