[Recap] Joint Centennial Worship

Centennial Joint Worship: A Spirit-Filled Celebration of Unity

All photos by Martin Eisenloeffel

On June 8, First United Church joyfully hosted a Centennial Joint Worship service, bringing together four United Churches in Waterloo: Emmanuel, Westminster, Parkminster, and First. The sanctuary was alive with colour, song, and Spirit as we marked 100 years of The United Church of Canada.

Clergy from each congregation—Rev. Brenda Torrie (Emmanuel), Rev. Joe Gaspar (Parkminster), Rebecca Whiting (Westminster), and Rev. Hoeun Lee (First)—led the service together in a beautiful display of unity and shared ministry. The joint choir lifted hearts in song, streamers swirled with joy, and children led us in celebration.

From communion in many languages to a shared vision of bold discipleship and daring justice, the Spirit moved powerfully among us. Following worship, we gathered around a centennial cake and shared fellowship, gratitude, and hope for the journey ahead.

We offer heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers who helped make this celebration so meaningful—from those who prepared the worship service, organized the potluck lunch, and curated the historical displays, to the ushers who welcomed us so warmly, and the choir and our music director whose music ministry filled the sanctuary with joy and praise.

Thanks be to God for this unforgettable day!