New Here? Welcome.
If you’re visiting Westdale United Church for the first time — we’re really glad you’re here.
People come to our community for all kinds of reasons. Some are exploring faith for the first time. Some are returning after time away. Some are looking for a church that reflects their values. Some are just curious.
Whatever brought you here, you are welcome — just as you are.
Who We Are
Westdale United Church is part of The United Church of Canada, a progressive Christian denomination that believes God’s love is wider than we can imagine.
We try to follow Jesus in ways that are:
- loving and compassionate
- thoughtful and curious
- rooted in justice and care for the world
We don’t expect everyone to believe the same things. Questions, doubt, and wonder are all part of faith here.
Visiting for the First Time?
If walking into a church feels a little intimidating, you’re not alone.
You’re welcome to:
- Arrive early. Coffee is always available at the back of the sanctuary starting half an hour before the service. Please bring your own cup (mugs are available!).
- Come and go quietly or socialise and get to know others.
- Take things at your own pace.
When you come in, you will be met by greeters (identifiable by their neon lanyards). They can help answer any questions and will show you the “Welcome Table” which has name tags, first time visitor cards and other information about the church. (It’s the table at the back with the rainbow tablecloth on it).
Feeling nervous about coming alone? We have church buddies available who would be glad to connect with you ahead of time and meet you your first morning so you don’t have to come in by yourself. Reach out to Rev. Evan either by email or phone (289-207-3247) if you would like to meet a buddy!
What Sunday Worship Is Like
Our worship is meaningful, reflective, and connected to everyday life.
You can expect:
- music from hymns to more contemporary songs
- inclusive language for God
- prayers for ourselves and others
- scripture read with care and curiosity
- a sermon that connects faith with justice, community, and hope
You’re free to participate in whatever way feels right to you. You won’t be singled out or put on the spot.
A Church That Is Fully Inclusive
Westdale United Church is an affirming church.
That means:
- LGBTQIA2S+ people are fully welcomed and celebrated
- all gender identities and expressions belong here
- families of all kinds are honoured
- you don’t need to change who you are to be part of this community
We also seek to live out commitments to anti-racism, reconciliation, and decolonization, knowing this is lifelong work we do together.
Communion Is for Everyone
When we celebrate communion, the table is open.
You don’t need to be a member.
You don’t need to be baptized.
You don’t need to believe a certain way.
If you wish, you’re invited to receive bread and juice or wine. Gluten-free options are available. You’re also welcome to stay seated or simply receive a blessing.
All are welcome at Christ’s table.
What Should I Wear?
Whatever you’re comfortable in.
You’ll see jeans, hoodies, sweaters, dresses, and the occasional suit. There’s no dress code here. We want you to be comfortable and to be the truest version of you.
Children, Youth & Families
Children and youth are welcome — fully and joyfully.
- Children are welcome to stay in worship. Families are welcome to sit anywhere in the sanctuary and there is a seating area at the back with couches, toys, and colouring materials that all ages are welcome to use-even adults!
- We have programming available for children following the “conversation time” in the service. Our family ministry folks will greet you and make sure you know what is available.
- We are a breast/chest feeding friendly church. You are welcome to feed your child anywhere you are comfortable. Pumping and G-tubes are of course welcome as well.
- Movement and noise are okay
- Youth are invited to participate and lead
- Families are supported, not judged
We believe children are already part of the community, exactly as they are.
Accessibility Matters
We want our space and our worship to be as accessible as possible.
- Our building is accessible by a lift off the parking lot closest to Paisley Ave (and the main doors of the sanctuary). Please ring the doorbell and someone will come and assist you with the lift. All of the offices and small group spaces are wheelchair accessible.
- Accessible washrooms are available on both floors.
- Assistive Listening Devices are available. Please ask a greeter (neon lanyard) or at the tech table in the sanctuary.
- There are fidget tools/toys available at the back of the sanctuary. Anyone is welcome to use them during the service.
- You are welcome to get up and move around during the service.
If you have questions or specific needs, please reach out — we’re glad to help.
After the Service
Following worship, many people stay for coffee, tea, and conversation at the back of the sanctuary.
You’re welcome to join in — or head out quietly if you prefer. There’s no pressure either way.
You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out
You don’t need to:
- know the words
- understand the traditions
- agree with everyone
- be certain about what you believe
Faith here is about showing up honestly, not having all the answers.
Join Us
Sunday Worship:
September to June at10:30am.
During July and August as well as the first Sunday after Christmas we share our services with MacNeil Baptist Church and St. Cuthbert’s Presbyterian Church. Both are LGBT-Affirming communities. For information on these services click HERE.
Location:
99 North Oval Hamilton. On Sunday mornings, most people enter through the main sanctuary doors which are off Stirling Street at the corner of Stirling and King.
Parking and Transit:
We have limited parking spots however there is street parking available as well as paid parking on King Street. There are accessible parking spaces available in the parking lot off Stirling Street.
Hamilton’s public transit system (Hamilton Street Railway or HSR) serves the Westdale neighbourhood with several bus routes. The most common routes that drop you close to Westdale Village (near King St. W and Longwood Rd.) include:
- Route 01 (King)
- Route 05 (King)
- Route 51 (University / McMaster route)
These buses run along King Street West through Westdale Village and McMaster University.
Once you’re on a bus heading west on King Street West:
- Exit at a stop near King Street & Longwood Road West or King Street & Paisley Ave. These stops are within a short 5–10 minute walk to Westdale United Church.
From there:
- Walk south on Longwood Road West toward North Oval.
- Turn left on North Oval and you’ll see Westdale United Church at 99 North Oval.
It’s a pleasant and short walk through the Westdale neighbourhood.
Still Have Questions?
We’d love to connect.
Email, call, or simply stop by.
Or just come as you are.