TUMC is a Christian community in the Mennonite-Anabaptist peace church tradition. We aspire to be a family of faith that welcomes people of diverse backgrounds and stories, worshipping and supporting each other, while following Christ’s example in working for peace and justice in our urban context.1
Season of Advent
Advent is a time of quietly joyful waiting. In the midst of all commercialized pressures of the season, we’re invited to stop, breathe, and take in the true meaning of this time of preparation for the birth of a child who changed everything. TUMC marks the season of Advent and Christmas with a variety of special events and services for all ages. Neighbours, guests and newcomers are always welcome to come check us out!
This Sunday, December 8
We’ll be lighting the second candle of Advent this week with Alison Li speaking in our 11 a.m. worship service. Faith Formation classes for kids start at 10 a.m.. After the service, we’ll be taking our annual TUMC Family Photo of the entire congregation. There’s a brief but important congregational meeting after that, which guests are always welcome to observe.
December 15
On the Third Sunday of Advent, the 11 a.m. worship service will be followed by a Red & Green Potluck lunch for children and youth, who will then be offering music and other talents to seniors at St. Clair O’Connor Mennonite Community.
December 20 (Friday evening), Blue Christmas service
The so-called season of joy is difficult for many people for various reasons, including grief, loneliness, family conflict and struggles with mental health. Dinner at 5:30 p.m. will be followed at 6:30 p.m. by this quiet Blue Christmas service led by TUMC’s Caring Team, which acknowledges those struggles and the need for comfort and healing. All are welcome. You are not alone!
December 24, Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Join us at 7 p.m. for this beautiful hour of readings and carols, including a candlelit singing of “Silent Night.” Whether you come alone or with a passel of family and friends; whether you’re a regular here or haven’t entered a church in years (or ever!), you will find a warm welcome to this service. We hope it will warm your heart, too.
December 29 Holiday Celidh
Looking for something to do in the post-Christmas slump? After the final worship service of 2024 (at 11 a.m.) join us from 2-4 p.m. for this just-for-fun intergenerational party of folk dancing in the Celtic tradition. No experience needed; instruction is provided! And don’t worry, there are lots of Mennonite “left feet”! Neighbours and passersby are invited. We especially welcome former & current TUMC young adults who are “home for the holidays”!
CHURCH ON THE GROUND meets at 1774 Queen St. E., in the Beach neighbourhood. We’ve relaxed our anti-Covid practices, but masks are encouraged.
CHURCH IN THE CLOUD is open to everyone, far and wide, via the Zoom link available in the emailed announcements. (Don’t get the announcements? Contact Divy before noon Friday.)
