Cummer Avenue United Church

Cummer Avenue United Church (CAUC) is a Canadian nonprofit Christian organization located in North York, Toronto, Ontario. It is an inclusive faith community that emphasizes kindness, justice, and hope as foundational values, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and stages of their spiritual journey. The church actively engages in worship services, community outreach, and social support programs aimed at enriching lives and fostering transformation in the wider society.

History

The congregation currently known as Cummer Avenue United Church has roots that trace back to the Yonge/Cummer area. It is connected historically with Northminster United Church, which was established in 1956 near Finch Avenue and Bathurst Street. Over the years, the church has evolved and grown into a vibrant community hub while maintaining its commitment to faith and social justice.

Building and Features

The church building has several notable architectural and artistic features:

• Stained Glass Dome: Located in the entrance foyer, the stained glass dome was designed by the renowned Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama. Originally installed in 1958 at the Toronto Japanese United Church Nisei Congregation on Dovercourt Road, it was later relocated to Cummer Avenue United Church.

• Casavant Organ: The church houses a historic Casavant organ, initially built in 1930 and installed in the Nova Scotian Hotel in Halifax. It underwent complete removal and rebuilding during renovations at Cummer Avenue, with the bottom panels crafted from church pews salvaged from the building.

These elements contribute to the church's distinctive character and reflect its respect for heritage and artistry.

Programs and Community Services

Cummer Avenue United Church operates multiple community-oriented programs designed to support vulnerable populations and foster social inclusion:

• A Drop-In Centre providing breakfast, lunch, and access to essential services such as clothing banks, showers, legal help, and community outreach initiatives, operated with no restrictions on eligibility.

• Regular worship services held every Sunday, offering a spiritual gathering space for congregants and visitors.

The church’s outreach efforts underline its commitment to social justice and community care, extending its mission beyond spiritual life to tangible support for those in need.

Governance and Legal Status

Cummer Avenue United Church is registered as a nonprofit organization under the Business Registration Number 119060804RR0001. It functions as an unincorporated nonprofit entity and is governed by its community and church leadership in accordance with United Church of Canada principles.

Cummer Avenue United Church remains a vital spiritual and community institution in Toronto, dedicated to fostering kindness, justice, and hope within its congregation and the broader community it serves.