I came to this church as part of my church hopping endeavour in finding meaning in life and a community to do life with. It's been by far one of the most enriching, knowledge satisfying and kindred churches I have ever been to in my life. Would definitely recommend to friends and family who are curious to know more about the Christian faith.
Location
The church is located on a busy intersection of college and Jarvis. There is a Tim Hortons across the street and Allan Gardens right next door. Getting to the church is somewhat convenient if you are talk the street car (stops right in front of the building) or if you live nearby (what a wonderful stroll). It is also just a few minutes to walk to from college subway station (although in winter the few minutes seems much more longer). Since I live uptown, I have been driving down to this church through Yonge street. Not as convenient as if it were located off the highway, however, there is plenty of free street parking on Sunday mornings nearby off the streets. Did I say parking was free??
Service
Service starts at 10:30am and goes until noon. There is free coffee and cookies afterwards and an open gathering session for further dialogue with the pastor after service. The service start time is pretty ideal for me, not too early and not too late. The sermons are also not too long, which is great for someone who is unable to focus for too long. What stands out for me with service here is: first the worship band and music - the musicians here are quite talented; and the focus on the bible teachings within the sermons - this church is quite theologically advanced in comparison to some other churches I have been to. There are a few different pastors who preach which gives a great variety on the sermon styles. The main pastor is Pastor Dan MacDonald, who was previously a lawyer, so you will see his logical and rational style reflected in his sermons. What I love most about the sermons here, is that they always end with practical messages of how we can apply what we have heard into our lives. I also love the fact that the pastors are open to having Q and A sessions with the congregants, which is not typical of many churches.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere of this church is semi-relaxed, open and communal. They focus quite a bit on building communities with a number of small groups you can sign up for after service and regular social events that connect people with each other. There seems to be quite a large population of Young professionals who go to this church and diversity of church members is somewhat mixed. There is a sense of a strong structure in terms of the backbone to this church as they have an elders, diaconate groups and discipleship and membership town hall meetings. I think the fact that is Presbyterian is probably what gives a somewhat formal feel to this church.
Building
This location was first opened in October 2017 after what looked to be significant renovations to the interiors of the building to the original Old St. Andrew's Presbyterian church. This building is absolutely beautiful and was originally built in the 1800s by the same architect who built the other three churches in that same block of land that surround the Allen Gardens. The interiors include simple-yet-elegant features of stained-glass windows and the main sanctuary has absolutely beautiful arched ceilings. This building is a real work of art. read more