Groups
groups
sunday school
At Elm Street United Church, we believe children are not just the future of the church—they are a vital part of the body of Christ today.
Our Sunday School, offered from September through June, is a welcoming and nurturing space where children grow in faith through story, music, play, creativity, and caring relationships. We want every child to feel safe, seen, and valued as they explore the Bible and discover their place in God’s world in ways that are meaningful to them.
Children begin worship with the whole congregation, participating in prayers, music, and community life before heading to Sunday School after about 20 minutes. We know every child is unique, and we honour different needs for movement and connection—so children are always welcome to remain in worship. We offer quiet activities to help little hands and hearts stay engaged during the service.
We also joyfully welcome children to the Communion table, where all are invited to receive God’s grace. No matter where they are on their faith journey, children belong here—loved, embraced, and celebrated as part of our church family.
united church women
Looking for friendship, purpose, and a chance to make a meaningful difference? The United Church Women (UCW) at Elm Street is a welcoming group of women who grow in faith and fellowship while serving God and the community.
It’s not just crafts and baking—though there’s plenty of joy (and laughter) in those too! As a member of the UCW, you’ll have a voice in how we support charitable causes, organize outreach within and beyond our church, and plan our much-loved Spring and Fall Bazaars. We also connect with sister churches, attend local shows and dinners, and enjoy the occasional road trip or outing together.
Whether you’re crafty, compassionate, curious—or all three—you’ll find a place to belong and contribute.
UCW meets every 2nd Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. (September through June), and the Crafts Group meets regularly to create, chat, and prepare for upcoming events. Come and see what we’re about. New faces are always welcome!
SPIRITUAL LIFE
The Spiritual Life Care Committee exists to support the heart of our church: worship, prayer, learning, and compassionate connection.
As a team, we guide the spiritual direction of our congregation by overseeing worship, Christian education (including Sunday School and Bible Study), the planning of special services, and the celebration of the sacraments.
But perhaps most importantly, we are here to care for the people of Elm Street. Each of our eight Elders stays in touch with a group of members—offering calls, visits, and check-ins—ensuring no one is forgotten or left without a listening ear. We believe that faith grows stronger when it’s shared, and our Elders are dedicated to building meaningful relationships within the congregation.
The committee also helps coordinate scripture readers and greeters, supports the minister and staff, and keeps important church records such as baptisms, marriages, funerals, and membership. We also offer support in times of change or concern, always seeking to listen with grace and guide with care.
We meet monthly to pray, plan, and grow together, always asking: How can we nurture the spiritual life of our church? How can we better care for one another?
If you have a prayer need, a question about faith, or simply need someone to talk to, this is the team that’s here for you.
Because at Elm Street, caring for the soul of the church means caring for each other.
HOSPITALITY
At Elm Street United Church, we know that for many, Sunday morning is more than just worship—it’s a vital moment of connection. For some, it may be the only social gathering of the week. That’s why our Hospitality Committee goes beyond coffee and tea, offering light lunches and snacks each Sunday to create space where people can linger, share stories, and enjoy the gift of community.
Our goal is simple: to care for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—through warm fellowship, good food, and joyful connection.
The Hospitality Committee is one of the newer ministries in our church, created to help build a welcoming atmosphere, strengthen community bonds, and foster a spirit of inclusion. We believe everyone—regardless of age or background—has something to bring to the table, and we encourage both women and men to participate in this ministry of care.
In addition to Sunday refreshments, we plan a variety of events throughout the year that bring people together and deepen our life as a community of faith. These include:
- Toonie Toonie Lunches
- Potlucks & BBQ's
- Dramatizations
- Pizza & Games Nights
- Mystery Tours
- Victorian Teas
- Canada Day Celebration
- Movie Nights
- Annual Yard/Garage Sale
We also coordinate the seasonal beautification of our sanctuary by arranging group orders of poinsettias and hydrangeas at Christmas and Easter.
Through shared meals, laughter, and hospitality, we strive to make Elm Street not just a church, but a place where everyone feels welcome and at home.
Bible study
Our Bible Study is more than just reading Scripture—it’s a space to dig deep, ask questions, and grow in faith together. We explore the Bible through historical, anthropological, and sociological lenses, using tools of exegesis to understand what the text meant then—and what it means for us today.
Each week, we connect the wisdom of Scripture to real-world issues, the life of the church, and our own personal journeys. Together, we pray, reflect, and discover not only more about the Bible, but more about one another.
Whether you’re new to the Bible or have studied it for years, there’s always something new to uncover—and a place for your voice in the conversation.
exercise Class
Our ladies’ exercise programme, led by our Lynn Dinwoodie, has been operating as an outreach for Elm Street United Church for 12 years. The majority of the ladies who attend the class are from the community, and they support various activities within the Church, such as the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, our bazaar, yard sale and Toonie Toonie lunches.
Dance, core strengthening, light weights, and cardio drumming are all part of our programme.
Over the past few years the ladies have donated $10 a month, usually at the end of each 8-week session. With this money we have been able to support several local charities.
Glory Community Church
We are blessed to share our space with Glory Community Church, a vibrant worshipping community that seeks to glorify God through heartfelt praise, prayer, and service.
You are warmly invited to join Glory Community Church as they gather to celebrate all that God has done—and is yet to do. Your presence will enrich their time of worship, and you are welcome just as you are.
When: Sundays from 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Where: Elm Street United Church, 11 Elm Street, St. Catharines
Scripture Focus: "Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known." — Jeremiah 33:3
Senior Pastor: Rev. Eunice Magira Hawkins
Come and be part of what God is doing through Glory Community Church!
scouts
Scouts have a lot of fun discovering new things and experiences they wouldn't have elsewhere. Along the way they develop into capable, confident and well-rounded individuals, better prepared for success in the world. We have Beaver Scouts (Age 5 - 7), Cub Scouts (Ages 8 - 10), and Scouts (Ages 11 - 14). Scouting makes a difference in the lives of children, youth and young adults. Providing opportunities for youth to grow, achieve new "firsts" and develop in to citizens of the world. For more information please contact Mike Hallett - by phone: 905-401-7682 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Scouts Meet on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm from September to mid-June.
1st Merritton Sparks
Sparks meet on Wednesdays at 6:30 to 7:30 pm For more information please contact Denise Clark at 289-362-4799
1st Merritton Brownies
Brownies meet on Wednesdays at 6:30 to 7:30 pm For more information please contact Jessica Domanico at 289-241-4684
