Amnesty International
Amnesty International is a global movement of people fighting injustice and promoting human rights, inspired by the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, signed by many countries in 1948. AI researches suspected human rights abuses at home and around the world, and then, as they like to say, they shine the light on the case in an effort to pressure the governments involved to end the abuses. They do this by organized campaigns, harnessing media sources and issuing reports to government agencies and regional and international bodies. AI has directly and positively impacted the lives of tens of thousands of people around the world and has contributed to significant changes in human rights law, and the practices and policies of many governments.
Our church is involved mainly through our annual Write-For-Rights campaign in early December when we join with thousands of people around the world to write letters to implicated governments on behalf of specific individuals suffering from human rights abuses. Sometimes we are able to write to the person or his/her family directly to offer support and encouragement. Our efforts have led to many success stories.
Children & Youth Ministry
On Monday mornings, 9:30 AM, we welcome children and caregivers to a community drop-in to enjoy conversation, play time, stories and music. A week-long Vacation Bible School is offered each summer, and other special events are held through the year. We offer nursery care and educational programming for children and youth each Sunday morning at 11 AM with our Children and Worship and Following Jesus centres. Read more here.
Committees and Teams
A lot of the action at Guildwood Community Presbyterian Church happens through the work of its Committees and Teams. Whether you are new to the church or a member of many years, working with a committee or team is a great way to exercise your faith and make new friends. Learn more about what our committees and teams are up to, and how you might become involved.
Craft Club
The Craft Club meets monthly September to June. We knit, sew, crochet, etc., then sell our items at the Village Fair in support of GCPC. We also support the wider community, for example by knitting caps for newborn infants at local hospitals.
All are welcome to join us and enjoy fellowship as we create and chat over light refreshments (tea, coffee).
Ladies Ecumenical Bible Study Group
This is an ecumenical group that meets at the church on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 am. All are welcome to join as often as they can: no formal registration or long-term commitment is required.
Meals Together
The Meals Together program provides an opportunity for community members who live on their own to enjoy a delicious meal and a time of fellowship. The dinners are held the third Thursday of each month from September to June and include a speaker/entertainment following the meal.
Men’s Breakfast
About five times a year, Saturday morning breakfasts are held for men of the church and community. These joyful gatherings foster a spirit of fellowship, and the food is great, too!
Music
Bells of Guildwood
For many decades, an active handbell choir, the Bells of Guildwood, has contributed to the worship life of Guildwood Church. Multi-generational members of this choir rehearse each Sunday at 9 AM and play monthly during worship services in addition to performing special concerts throughout the year. The choir has a five-octave set of English handbells and a three-octave set of handchimes, and is under the direction of Steven Szeto.
Junior Choir
Our Junior Choir, spearheaded by Carolyn Glasgow, features talented young singers who grace many Sunday services with a mix of traditional and contemporary, wistful songs — many of which have been artfully and cleverly arranged by the youth in collaboration with GCPC music director, Rachelle Risling.
Senior Choir
Together with their director, GCPC music director Rachelle Risling, a choir of 20 people shares musical gifts each Sunday during worship. They rehearse each Thursday evening for a joyful time of singing and fellowship.
Village Fair
From baked goods to books, from silverware to toys, plus a tearoom to cater to one’s appetite, the Village Fair is an event par excellence that offers something for everyone from the church and the wider community. The 2020 Village fair is will be on-line only for seven weeks from October 12. Read more about the 2020 edition.
Women’s Ministry
The purpose of this ministry is to provide spiritual encouragement through fellowship, connectedness, and mutual support to the women of our congregation and community. Events are well attended and have included a variety of guest speakers. A fall retreat is held each year.