Montgomery Park Disc Golf course brings community together
In Kitchener, disc golf is bringing people together in a new way. The Grand River Disc Golf Association, a volunteer-run group, is passionate about promoting the sport and building accessible courses in the community.
When local courses charged fees, the association wanted to create a free space where everyone could play. Partnering with Eastwood Collegiate Institute, the group looked close to home and applied for a LoveMyHood Matching Grant to build a disc golf course in Montgomery Park, a multi-use space for all to enjoy.
At first, some neighbors were uncertain about the idea. Zac Jolliffe, one of the association’s founders, worked closely with a Project Coordinator from the City of Kitchener’s Neighbourhood Development Office and neighbours to share the vision of the course as a community resource. The course opened in 2022, offering a beginnerfriendly, nine-hole layout surrounded by scenic trees.
It quickly became a popular gathering spot for players of all ages and skill levels. “It’s a great way for neighbours to meet and connect,” said Mat-
thew Kruschack, chair of the Eastwood Neighborhood Association. The course has not only increased park use but also fostered a sense of community.
The Montgomery Park Disc Golf course is more than just a place to play—it’s a space for neighbours to come together,
try something new, and build stronger community ties.
To learn more about the LoveMyHood Matching Grant and how it can help bring your neighbourhood vision to life, visit www.lovemyhood.ca/lmhgrant.
This story, submitted to the
Kitchener Citizen, is part of the LoveMyHood storytelling series ‘Stories from our Neighbourhood’ as the City of Kitchener shares stories from neighbourhoods across the city each month. To read more stories of resident-led projects, visit www.lovemyhood.ca/stories.
home or semi-detached that you can decorate in any fashion you choose because of holidays or
condo townhouse.
check for this information.
ute! Not so fast! Buying a condo is not like purchasing a private
A. It happens all the time. A purchaser buys their first condo and takes occupancy a few weeks before Christmas. They can’t wait to buy some outside lights and plenty of decorations for the balcony and the entrance door to their apartment. Does this sound like you? Wait a minute! Not so fast! Buying a condo is not like purchasing a private
home or semi-detached that you can decorate in any fashion you choose because of holidays or
view your condominium rules um documents will inform you if outside decorations are rations, where they are to be located and for what length of time they may be displayed. Decorating policies are in place to maintain marketing values by allowing a uniform appearance from the outside of the building. After all, not everyone would be delighted at the thought of a blown up Santa and his team of reindeers appearing on several balconies or the rooftop of your
condo townhouse.
view your condominium rules
um documents will inform you if outside decorations are permitted, what type of decorations, where they are to be located and for what length of time they may be displayed. Decorating policies are in place to maintain marketing values by allowing a uniform appearance from the outside of the building. After all, not everyone would be delighted at the thought of a blown up Santa and his team of reindeers appearing on several balconies or the rooftop of your
some sort of guidelines in or der to eliminate decorations that could also cause property damage or interfere with main tenance/repairs. For instance, some owners may think nothing of drilling a hole into their en trance door to accommodate a wreath. Others may string doz ens of lights that burn for hours, not realizing that the hydro to power these lights may be a common expense. What about wall plugs and wiring up of the lights? All these factors are crit ical in maintaining the safety and security of the building in regards to fire. This is probably why most hi-rise condos only allow artificial Christmas trees. If
Atsome sort of guidelines in or der to eliminate decorations that could also cause property damage or interfere with main tenance/repairs. For instance, some owners may think nothing of drilling a hole into their entrance door to accommodate a wreath. Others may string dozens of lights that burn for hours, not realizing that the hydro to power these lights may be a common expense. What about wall plugs and wiring up of the lights? All these factors are critical in maintaining the safety and security of the building in regards to fire. This is probably why most hi-rise condos only allow artificial Christmas trees. If
a ceremony held on Friday, April 25, at the Grand Staircase of the Legislative Building at Queen’s Park in Toronto, John MacDonald and Mark McInnis accepted the award for Excellence in Conservation presented to Dickson Public School Adaptive Reuse,
GREAT TIME TO BE A BUYER
Oh, how times have changed! Just a few years ago, buyers were paying inflated prices on homes. In some instances, they weren’t in love with the home, they just wanted to get into the real estate market.
Now the tables have turned. In February 2022, there were only 250 homes for sale in all of Waterloo Region. Today, we have over 1900 active listings. Prices for the same period have changed from $1,135,000 to $825,000 for an average single-family home, and interest rates have fallen from over 6% to 3.75%. This is now, hands down, the best time to get into the real estate market. Buyers now
a fantastic level of choice. When finding a home, they have time to think it over and not make rash decisions. Most importantly, they can put in proper clauses to protect their interests, like a home inspection or financing conditions.
Be careful, this will not last too long. Prices have bottomed out and most likely will not be going lower. As soon as the trade war settles down, prices will start to surge back up. You don’t want to be buying when that happens. Take advantage of this unique situation and get into the housing market - now! For a free, no obligation meeting to determine what you can afford. Call me at 519-589-3554.
holiday spirit. However, don’t let the Corporation Grinch spoil your Christmas and order you to remove your decorations be-
for exceptional achievement in conserving Ontario’s heritage.
The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, and John Ecker, Chair of the Ontario Heritage Trust celebrated projects and individuals who made exceptional contributions to heritage conservation in Ontario.
Administered by the Ontario Heritage Trust and awarded annually, the Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Awards recognize outstanding contributions made by groups or individuals to identify, preserve, protect and promote Ontario’s heritage.
The awards criteria incorporate a broad range of heritage interests and activities including sustainability, biodiversity and cultural and natural heritage.
market during this global pandemic was not what we expected. You would think things would have slowed down, but not in Kitchener Waterloo where prices have increased and the number of active listings has decreased. So what’s in store for the future with us?
ties bought this historic school in 2015 and enlisted John MacDonald Architect to assist with the revitalization of the property. Mark and John MacDonald were well known to each other from the successful conversion of an early 20th century shoe factory in Kitchener into office and commercial space. Early work at the Dickson Public School supported a vision for office space, but during the pandemic, it became evident that it was necessary to pivot toward housing.
Some have said if a global pandemic can’t slow us down then nothing will, and they might be right. But this boom has to end sometime, they all do. But when is the big question.
The market during this global pandemic was not what we expected. You would think things would have slowed down, but not in Kitchener Waterloo where prices have increased and the number of active listings has decreased. So what’s in store for the future with us?
are excited to announce that we are
to a new location effective Sept.19 2022.
Previous recipients include the restorations of Massey Hall and the Senate of Canada Building, as well as the adaptive reuse of the Niagara Parks Power Station, and the F.M. Woods Waterworks Building in Guelph.
The Dickson Public School building at 65 St. Andrews Street in Galt, Cambridge dates back to 1876. By 1894, the original school building had been expanded twice to its current footprint.
Former classrooms on the main and upper levels have been transformed into ten rental apartments – five per floor. There are five two-bedroom units, four one-bedroom units, and one bachelor unit. With grade changes and a new entry ramp, the ground floor of the building is accessible and features two accessible units: one two-bedroom unit and one onebedroom unit.
If I was thinking of year or so I definitely would luck and do it now. No ball but we only have to predict what might happen And what goes up must always has, and always If you would like to your house has increased me a call at 519-589-3554, happy to give you an value.
We are excited to announce that we are moving to a new location effective Sept.19 2022.
130 Birch Ave Unit 4 • Kitchener
replace diately.
Some have said if a global pandemic can’t slow us down then nothing will, and they might be right. But this boom has to end sometime, they all do. But when is the big question. If I was thinking of year or so I definitely would luck and do it now. No ball but we only have to predict what might happen And what goes up must always has, and always If you would like to your house has increased me a call at 519-589-3554, happy to give you an value.
Gascho Automotive Limited
The two-storey limestone building was a fully operational school until 2014. It was designated in 1983 for its historic and architectural significance. It is an excellent example of a 19th century stone school in Ontario with vernacular Scottish Georgian features.
The philosophy throughout design and construction was to retain all that was beautiful as much as possible. If it couldn’t be used for its original purpose, either alter minimally to make it useful, or repurpose. Through its transformation, Dickson P.S. has retained its original architectural features, inside and out, for all residents to enjoy.
YOUR FULL SERVICE ONE STOP AUTO SHOP!
market during this global pandemic was not what we expected. You would think things would have slowed down, but not in Kitchener Waterloo where prices have increased and the number of active listings has decreased. So what’s in store for the future with us?
As a surplus property of the local school board, Mark McInnis, head of Summerco Proper-
Some have said if a global pandemic can’t slow us down then nothing will, and they might be right. But this boom has to end sometime, they all do. But when is the big question.
The adaptive reuse of the Dickson Public School has not just saved it from falling into disrepair, but has brought into the community much needed residential units. Every unit is bright and joyful and celebrates the rich architectural heritage of the old school. The design quality of these units will elevate and enrich the living experience of every resident.
If I was thinking of year or so I definitely would luck and do it now. No ball but we only have to predict what might happen And what goes up must always has, and always If you would like to your house has increased me a call at 519-589-3554, happy to give you an value.
thor of The Condominium Self Management Guide, 2nd edition. Send questions to marilyncondoguide@hotmail.com
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From left: John MacDonald, Margaret Santos, Mila Wiggins and Mark McInnis at the awards ceremony at Queen’s Park. Submitted photo
Page 2 l Kitchener Citizen l November 2020
Key decisions of Council is a summary of major discussion items presented at Kitchener City Council meetings. It is circulated immediately following each meeting by City of Kitchener Communications staff. Please refer to the minutes for an official record of the meeting.
Dark Eyed Junco named Kitchener’s official bird
After being certified as Bird Friendly by Nature Canada, the Bird Friendly City Kitchener committee conducted a poll to name Kitchener’s official bird. Representatives of Bird Friendly City Kitchener reported the results of their poll, with the Dark Eyed Junco emerging as the winner as Kitchener’s new official bird.
This May, local artist and bird enthusiast Meredith Blunt, along with Bird Friendly City Kitchener, invite you to visit Sq. Peg to enjoy, learn and support the wonderful world of our local feathered friends. BFC will be sponsoring birding walks, conservation presentations, bird-themed gifts, and artist talks all of May in DTK! Kitchener receives Smart 20 Cities Award
The City of Kitchener’s Sustainable Urban Forest Program has been recognized as a Smart 20 Cities Awards recipient, a program that annually recognizes global smart cities projects, honoring the most innovative and influential work. This recognition highlights the cutting-edge technology and data-driven tools Kitchener is leveraging to make informed, sustainable urban planning decisions.
Kitchener received the Smart 20 award for Cooling Our City – An Equitable Guide to Tree Planting, which is an innovative tool developed to help prioritize tree planting in underserved areas that need trees the most. This tool is used as part of the City’s broader Sustainable Urban Forest Strategy, which focuses on sustainable urban forest management along with growth of our tree canopy coverage to 30% in each ward by 2050 and 33% city-wide by 2070.
For more information and to view the 2025 list of winning projects, visit Smart 20 Awards. City enables 35,000 new homes with Growing Together East policy
The City of Kitchener has enabled more than 35,000 new homes through its new Growing Together East policy. The new policy framework will enable Kitchener to grow through mixed-use projects that empha-
9 Conway Dr. (at River Rd), Kitchener (519) 894-5999
Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.
Mid-week activities for all ages. www.kitchenergospel.com
with the producers, but the region will not be responsibile for any of the cost.
The region will continue to be responsible for garbage, green bins, and yard waste.
Key Decisions of Kitchener Council: May 5, 2025
Kitchener East Presbyterian 10 Zeller Drive, Kitchener (519) 748-9786
Reverend: Mark S. Richardson
Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Nursery and Sunday School provided Sonshine Corner, Thursdays from 9 - 11 a.m.
Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran
322 East Avenue (at Stirling), Kitchener (519) 742-5812
size transit, moving the city towards its housing goals through this award-winning project that is one of the most ambitious in Canada.
102 Woolwich St., Breslau (519) 648-2712
Sunday Worship Service: 10 a.m.
Children’s Ministry - Youth Ministry - Small Groups
All are welcome! Visit us at ww w.bemc.ca
Growing Together East covers the Block Line, Fairway and Sportsworld neighbourhoods, joining the other seven major transit neighbourhoods that were already covered by Growing Together West. Growing Together is a key component of the City of Kitchener’s commitment under the Housing Accelerator Fund, and a major step forward in ensuring that everyone in Kitchener has a place to call home.
Sunday Service and Kid’s Church: 10 a.m. ALL WELCOME!
cent reduction in speeds on residential roads, among other safety improvements, as work continues in implementing its five-year strategy. In a report to committee on Monday, staff outlined the work that has been completed, the work underway and the work yet to come as the City of Kitchener continues its efforts to eliminate serious injuries and deaths due to traffic collisions.
Nexus Church Meets in The Conrad Center - 36 King St W. Kitchener Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. K
City Council approves ban on sale of fireworks
www.nexuschurch.ca
All are welcome!
Following a comprehensive review of the Fireworks and Firecracker By-law, Kitchener City Council approved the staff-recommended option to amend the bylaw to set time limits under which fireworks can be set off on specified dates and ban the sale of fireworks within the City.
To enable local vendors to reduce their existing inventory and plan for the elimination of sales within the City of Kitchener, the ban of sales will not come into effect until 2026. Other restrictions will take effect immediately. There is no change to the designated days on which consumer fireworks can be used; specifically, Victoria Day, Canada Day, and Diwali.
The review, which included input from 18 municipalities and a public survey with 1,900 responses, revealed strong community support for stricter regulations. Concerns over safety, misuse, noise, environmental impacts, and enforcement challenges drove discussions among regional municipalities.
Kitchener expands Vision Zero safety measure for 2025
The City of Kitchener’s ongoing work to achieve Vision Zero has resulted in a 15 per
In the report to the Community and Infrastructure Services Committee, traffic data showed a reduction in average speeds of 8.2 km/h or 15 per cent. This data was collected before and after the implementation of “hot spot” improvements in 2023, alongside a reduction in speed limits to 40 km/h.
Highlights of the report include the specific measures put in place to calm the 18 identified hot spots, six of which are within school zones. They include 30 raised measures such as speed humps and speed cushions, a pedestrian crossover, an all-way stop, a pedestrian refuge island, intersection pavement markings and approximately 500 metres of additional sidewalks or multi-use trails.
en initiative, WREDS defines collective priorities to support a thriving regional economy.
Visit Your Dentist On A Regular Basis - your dentist will advise on how frequently you should see them. Depending on individual circumstances, regular checkups may be every 3,6 or 9 months.
Keep Your Mouth Cleanbrush your teeth at least twice a day and use floss. Floss helps to remove food and plaque which gets lodged or forms
More information about the strategy, full staff reports and a Vision Zero dashboard can be found on the City of Kitchener’s Vision Zero page. Kitchener endorses Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy
The City of Kitchener has endorsed the 2025 Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy (WREDS), reinforcing collaboration among municipal economic development partners. As a community-driv-
between the teeth and gums. Flossing helps to reduce bad breath and gum disease. Using a mouthwash can help reduce plaque from forming, reduces infection and eliminates bad breath.
Developed by an Area Municipal Working Group with leadership from municipal CAOs, the strategy focuses on five strategic pillars to drive efficiency and innovation. More than 1,800 individuals contributed via workshops, surveys, and interviews, ensuring diverse perspectives informed the process.
Each municipality remains responsible for its own priorities, with semi-annual meetings fostering shared progress and identifying opportunities for collaboration. Financially, any future initiatives under WREDS will be subject to Council approval.
By guiding long-term economic development efforts, WREDS supports the goal of creating an economically thriving city together.
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Eat, Drink But Be Waryhealthy, unprocessed nutrient rich foods help the body fight any infection. Reduce sugar intake. Sugar is a major cause of dental brush sugary Check -gum disease) cause signs sensitive sore, which flossing. Check signs normally the mouth, mouth the tongue. Oral Include: small areas red mouth a numbness bleeding obvious sores not heal Avoid - using smoking)
The market during this global pandemic was not what we expected. You would think things would have slowed down, but not in Kitchener Waterloo where prices have increased and the number of active listings has decreased. So what’s in store for the future with us?
The market during this global pandemic was not what we expected. You would think things would have slowed down, but not in Kitchener Waterloo where prices have increased and the number of active listings has decreased. So what’s in store for the future with us?
The market during this global pandemic was not what we expected. You would think things would have slowed down, but not in Kitchener Waterloo where prices have increased and the number of active listings has decreased. So what’s in store for the future with us?
Our local real estate market has been rising sharply since 2017, not even the first wave of a Global Pandemic could slow it down. In fact, it has made the market stronger.
The supply of new and resale homes on the market are at historic low levels which tells us that prices cannot decline until inventory increases dramatically.
Some have said if a global pandemic can’t slow us down then nothing will, and they might be right. But this boom has to end sometime, they all do. But when is the big question.
Some have said if a global pandemic can’t slow us down then nothing will, and they might be right. But this boom has to end sometime, they all do. But when is the big question.
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The second wave is now upon us, will this now slow the market? The Canadian banks are positive and will continue to be reporting a 3% decline months. Canadian Mortgage forecasting a 21% decline I think the right answer the middle. It does seem be ending soon, which Buyers and bad news For honest advice estate situation give me
and do it now. No ball but we only have predict what might happen And what goes up must always has, and always If you would like to your house has increased me a call at 519-589-3554, happy to give you an value.
If I was thinking of year or so I definitely luck and do it now. No ball but we only have predict what might happen And what goes up must always has, and always If you would like to your house has increased me a call at 519-589-3554, happy to give you an value.
Some have said if a global pandemic can’t slow us down then nothing will, and they might be right. But this boom has to end sometime, they all do. But when is the big question. If I was thinking of year or so I definitely
If I was thinking of year or so I definitely luck and do it now. No ball but we only have predict what might happen And what goes up must always has, and always If you would like to your house has increased me a call at 519-589-3554, happy to give you an value.
Dark Eyed Junco has been named Kitchener’s official bird. Photo by Carl Leisegang
2025 Summer Camps
Celebrating Erick Traplin
Waterloo Region’s beloved children’s entertainer Erick Traplin is being celebrated for his 35 years of performing.
“Erick Traplin is one of our city’s most wellknown and beloved entertainers who has been bringing joy to generations of families for decades,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic.
“I always look forward to seeing his infectious performances on stage and looking out in the crowd to see the smiles he brings to everyone’s faces. I’m excited to be celebrating Erick’s incredible career and can’t wait to come together with our community to let him know how much we appreciate the impact he has and the memories he’s helped us make together.”
This summer, unleash your child’s creativity at KWAG’s exciting arts camp for kids aged 6-13! Your child will build artistic skills, forge new friendships and boost their confidence.
The fun-filled day of celebration will be held on Sunday, June 8, in Carl Zehr Square from noon to 5 p.m. The highlight will be a special 1 p.m. celebration to say a heartfelt thank you to Erick with memories from the community and special guests, along with live music for everyone to enjoy. This afternoon of fun will also feature live entertainment, roaming performers, food trucks and family-friendly games and activities like face painting, a balloon artist, sidewalk chalk, inflatable games and more.
“My kids, who are both now in their twenties, loved Bubbles when they were young and still talk about and fondly remember the impact Erick had on their childhood,” said Steve Roth, Kitchener’s Manager of Special Events. “When we were planning this event, we heard lots of similar stories from people who saw Erick on stage as a kid and are now bringing their own kids to his shows.”
Six week-long camps running from 7 July - 15 August.
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Extended aftercare is $50/wk $275 per 5-day week
As part of the event, you can share your memories of Erick with him. Visit the City’s Engage page to share a photo, video or written memory of what Erick means to you or your family. This could be a photo of you at your first Erick Traplin show, a video of Erick singing your child’s favourite song at an event, a written memory of a performance you remember, or anything else that shows Erick the impact he has had on so many lives. During Erick Traplin Day, we will share some of these memories in a looping slideshow for everyone to enjoy. You can also visit the Engage page to see the memories everyone else has shared.
Erick Traplin Day is being hosted by the City of Kitchener in partnership with the City of Cambridge, City of Waterloo, Kitchener Blues Festival, Kitchener Public Library, KitchenerWaterloo Multicultural Centre, Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest and the Township of Wilmot. This event has brought our communities together, reflecting the impact Erick has had across our entire region.
Visit ErickTraplinDay.ca to learn more about all the fun activities planned and submit your memory of Erick at EngageWR.ca/ErickTraplin.
Erick Traplin entertaining children at the 2024 New Year’s Levee at Kitchener City Hall.
Photo by Helen Hall
Grand Horizons
The pros and
(NC) Financial planners used to ask their clients, “What if you die? How will you look after your family?” Nowadays, with people living longer, the question is, “What if you live?”
One of the key decisions that many Canadians need to make in retirement planning is when to begin receiving your Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefits. It’s an important decision that can have a significant impact on retirement income, but it’s a decision that is different for everyone based on personal circumstances.
Understanding the impact of early and late benefits: The standard age to receive CPP benefits is 65. You can start as early as 60, but you’ll receive a smaller amount; or you can delay until 70 and receive higher benefits. (The maximum monthly amount is reached at 70, except for increases due to inflation.) Here’s how it works:
If you choose to start receiving benefits before age 65, payments will decrease by 0.6 per cent each month (or 7.2 per cent per year), up to a maximum reduction of 36 per cent if you start at age 60.
If you start after age 65, pay-
ments increase by 0.7 per cent each month (or 8.4 per cent per year) up to a maximum of 42 per cent if you wait until age 70.
Based on those figures, if you were eligible to receive $10,000 a year in CPP benefits at 65, the amount would be $6,400 if you started taking payments at age 60 versus $14,200 at 70.
Factors to consider before deciding: It can be daunting to make the decision, but there are several questions you can ask yourself before you decide –and of course you can choose to begin receiving benefits any time between ages 60 and 70.
For example, you may consider taking CPP earlier if you are ill or have a family history of shorter lifespans. You may also want to pay off debts or invest the money. On the other hand, you may consider waiting longer if you are healthy, have a family history of living longer and don’t need the money for immediate needs.
Benefits assurance: Whatever you decide, the benefits will be there for you – and you’ll keep receiving payments for as long as you live. As of September 30, 2024, the Fund stands at
Win two free tickets that
be
at any coming Drayton Entertainment 2025 season performance!
April winners: Betty Jacobs, Avni Rego
Simply email citizenwest@hotmail.com to be entered in the draw
Winners will be notified by the newspaper following each month’s giveaway and winners will be announce d in the Kitchener Citizen following each draw.
Winning tickets may be used for any performance at the following Drayton Entertainment venues during the 2025 season: Hamilton Family Theatre - Cambridge
St. Jacobs Country Playhouse
St. Jacobs Schoolhouse Theatre
King’s Wharf Theatre
Drayton Festival Theatre
Huron Country Playhouse
Huron Country Playhouse - South Huron Stage
*Tickets must be booked in advance. Performance dates and times are subject to availability.
To see what exciting shows Drayton Entertainment has in store for you this season call 1-885-DRAYTON (372-9866) or visit www.draytonentertainment.com
$675 billion. It’s professionally managed by CPP Investments, the independent Crown Corporation that operates at arm’s length from the federal and provincial governments. The independent Office of the Chief Actuary, which monitors the long-term health of the Fund, says in its latest review that the CPP Fund is financially sustainable for at least the next 75 years.
Don Drews’ Views
Waterloo Inukshuk and Trans Canada Trail Pavilion, Laurel Trail, Waterloo Park.
Photography by Don Drews
Don Drews is a retired school teacher who likes to take local photo walks. His photography can be found on social media on YouTube and Flickr, most of which include a descriptive history of the photos.
The United Church of Canada unveils bold reimagining of The Last Supper for its 100th anniversary
OnHoly Thursday, The United Church of Canada unveiled a bold photographic reimagining of The Last Supper, marking a significant moment in its centennial celebrations this year.
Revealed for the first time at Metropolitan United Church in Toronto, this reinterpretation challenges traditional depictions of the iconic scene and
affirms the United Church’s belief in an all-encompassing love that embraces each person as their authentic self.
Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, commemorates Jesus’ act of radical inclusion—sharing a meal with his followers, washing their feet and urging them to love one another.
Inspired by this powerful
Community Church Listing
ChurchCommunityListing
St James’-Rosemount United 171 Sherwood Ave., Kitchener (519) 742-1002
Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.
The United Church’s reimagining of The Last Supper invites reflection on the belief that “God’s love for all is limitless. Everyone, celebrating all backgrounds and identities, has a place at the table.”
Lunch served following service on the third Sunday of every month. Nursery, Sunday School, Youth Group, Wed. Night Bible study
St. George’s of Forest Hill - Anglican 321 Fischer-Hallman Road, Kitchener (519) 744-4751 www.stgeorgesofforesthill.com
Sunday Service 8:15 a.m. (Book of Common Prayer)
Kitchener Gospel Temple-Pentecostal
Sunday Service 10:00 a.m. (Children’s - Youth Ministries)
act, the Church’s reimagining invites reflection on its core value: that God’s love for all is limitless. Everyone, celebrating all backgrounds and identities, has a place at the table.
bodied through the gathered community, underscoring the belief that faith is expressed through justice, compassion, and service.
welcomed but celebrated,” said King Julez, past chair of Affirm United/S’affirmer Ensemble and one of the Disciples in the photograph.
Wednesday Service 10:00 a.m. All Welcome
9 Conway Dr. (at River Rd), Kitchener (519) 894-5999
Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.
Mid-week activities for all ages. www.kitchenergospel.com
St Paul’s Lutheran Church (Bridgeport) 101-544 Bridgeport Rd E., Kitchener ON N2K 1N7 Phone: 519-743-4464
Kitchener East Presbyterian
10 Zeller Drive, Kitchener (519) 748-9786
Reverend: Mark S. Richardson
Pastor Mario Hryniewicz
Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Nursery and Sunday School provided Sonshine Corner, Thursdays from 9 - 11 a.m.
Email: https://stpaulsbridgeport.weebly.com/ Worship Service: 10:00 am All are Welcome!
30 Shaftsbury Drive, Kitchener ON N2A 1N6 (519) 893-5290 www.hopelc.ca
“This is not just a statement for all time, but for our time,” said Rev. Michael Blair, General Secretary of The United Church of Canada. “This reimagining calls us to rethink what it means to be a faith community—one that evolves with the times, embraces diversity and actively fosters spaces of bold belonging. It’s not enough to simply have a seat, one must have a voice and the space to bring the fullness of all who gather.”
“As a member of the United Church, I was honoured and inspired to reimagine The Last Supper in a way that let each of the Disciples’ identities shine through,” said photographer Alan Lai.
“I wanted the image to honour who they each are and reflect the Church’s spirit of unity and belonging, showing that Christ’s presence lives in all of us, in all our diversity.”
“As a trans person and drag performer, I carry the legacy of queer resilience—of people who fought, created chosen families and found joy even in struggle. This image is about more than representation, it’s about transformation. It challenges us to reflect on what it truly means to belong.”
30 Shaftsbury Drive, Kitchener (519) 893-5290 Worship Service : 10:00 a.m. Nursery closed at this time ww w.hopelc.ca
Worship Service Times 10:00 am Worship Service 11:15 am Adult Bible Study Nursery open at this time
Breslau Evangelical Missionary Church
102 Woolwich St., Breslau (519) 648-2712
Sunday Worship Service: 10 a.m.
Children’s Ministry - Youth Ministry - Small Groups
Sunday Service and Kid’s Church: 10 a.m. ALL WELCOME!
Nexus Church Meets in The Conrad Center - 36 King St W. Kitchener Sunday Service 10:30 a.m.
K
www.nexuschurch.ca
All are welcome!
As part of The United Church of Canada’s centennial theme, Deep Spirituality, Bold Discipleship and Daring Justice, this photograph brings together people from various walks of life, each representing the diverse community they embrace. The image serves as a bold testament to the Church’s vision—a table where differences are honoured, diversity is celebrated, and faith is lived through shared commitment to equity and belonging.
A defining feature of this reimagining is the absence of Christ in physical form. Instead, Christ’s presence is em-
This reimagining also underscores The United Church of Canada’s ongoing commitment to advocacy, including support for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, Racial Equity, Disability Justice, and engagement in struggles for peace and human rights, including those around the globe.
It affirms that true belonging requires more than just tolerance—it requires action, dialogue and the intentional creation of spaces where all are truly welcomed and valued.
“I’ve experienced firsthand how life-giving it is to create spaces where 2S and LGBTQIA+ people, and all those on the margins, are not only
Throughout the Church’s centennial year, the photograph will be shared across digital platforms, including on a new dedicated webpage, sparking conversations about faith, identity and community in the modern world.
This art is a call to action, encouraging the creation of spaces that embrace authenticity and promote social justice. Bringing together individuals from coast to coast to coast, the project reflects the diversity of today’s United Church of Canada—spanning cultural backgrounds, generations, gender identities and spiritual perspectives.
Rather than assuming sameness, it celebrates differences while reinforcing a shared vision of faith, hope and a bold future.
COMMMUNITY CALENDAR
WALK FOR ALZHEIMER’S - The Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington is excited to announce the return of the annual IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, happening on Saturday, May 24, 2025. This family-friendly event will be held at four locations across the region – Kitchener, Guelph, Mount Forest, and a new location in Cambridge. For more information or to
register, visit Alzheimerww.ca. GARDEN OF RESILIENCE - The Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery (KWAG) is excited to announce the launch of the 50/50 Garden of Resilience, a groundbreaking community garden project to address two pressing social challenges: food security and ecological sustainability. Nestled within the KWAG Sculpture Garden in
the Olde Berlin Neighborhood, the Garden of Resilience will be providing an opportunity for community members to grow their own organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers, while fostering intergenerational and intercultural learning through community collaboration and mutual aid. Contact garden@ kwag.on.ca for further information.
