News & Events

On July 29, Contemplative Fire gathers to celebrate two milestones: our tenth anniversary, and “Spreading the Fire to the Edge” as Anne and Hugh relocate (read more…)

The latest issue of our newsletter, The Link, is now available for your reading enjoyment. Find it in your mailbox, in the church foyers, or online right here. (read more…)

This summer, we welcome Brother Charles McMulkin to St. John’s Church. This Sunday, June 24, Br. Charles will preach at the 8 a.m. Sacred Table service. (read more…)

The acclaimed handbell ensemble

St. John’s is proud to welcome Strikepoint to the sanctuary for a handbell concert on Sunday evening, June 24, starting at 7 p.m. (read more…)

Contemplative Fire invites you on a walk to and through Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. We depart at 10:00 a.m. from Yorkminster Park Baptist Church for a two-hour journey (read more…)

So much music filled the church…

Thank you everyone who helped make MusicFest 2018 so entertaining and wonderful. (read more…)

Gentlemen of the Supper Club, we will be meeting outdoors on June 12 for our annual season-ending barbecue. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. (read more…)

On Friday June 1, 2018, at 1 p.m., you’re invited to join in prayer at SJYM. We’ll be a part of a day of prayer and fasting as the Diocese prepares to elect a new Bishop. (read more…)

Our monthly gathering starts at 4 p.m. in the Community Hall at St. Leonard’s Church. This month, Contemplative Fire seeks to journey Way Beyond Religion. (read more…)

On Saturday, May 26, the SJYM Youth are going to Niagara-on-the-Lake, or possibly Narnia, to take in the play The Magician’s Nephew at the Shaw Festival. (read more…)

The Wanless Park Spring Fair happens this Saturday, May 12, and two St. John’s bands will be on stage! Wanless Park is a 12-minute walk from St. Leonard’s (read more…)

The Anglican Church Women of the Diocese of Toronto holds its Annual General Meeting on Saturday, May 12. This year’s theme is “Embracing Safety for All Women”. (read more…)

How do we respond at a difficult time?

The heart of the city of Toronto is heavy this week, and this of course includes the hearts of all of us here at SJYM. (read more…)

The Five Love Languages:

Gentlemen, you are invited to an evening of hearty food for the body and for the soul. On Tuesday, May 8, we’ll gather to consider the ideas of Gary Chapman in his book The 5 Love Languages. (read more…)

In the wake of Monday’s destruction, remember that we are here for you. A prayer service and vigil will be held at The Redeemer, 162 Bloor St. W., on Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. (read more…)

Our monthly gathering starts at 4 p.m. in the Community Hall at St. Leonard’s Church. This month, Contemplative Fire thinks about going Way Beyond Religion. (read more…)

Is money causing you stress? Do you feel bewildered? The CAP money course can help give you the tools and the financial literacy to get those feelings under control. (read more…)

Anniversary Lunch Celebration

The Lychgate Group was started at St. John’s in 1978 as a social and service club for the women of the parish. This year, forty years later, the Lychgate Group is going strong so it’s time to celebrate! (read more…)

A new date – Music’s still great!

We had to postpone MusicFest 2018 due to a wind storm that cut power to the church for three days in early May. The new date for MusicFest is June 3, 2018.

Our apologies to those of you that we weren’t able to notify and who came out expecting music but found only a dark building.

Music and Magic from the Movies

Music that can charm the restless soul and lift the sagging spirit: you’ll find it at MusicFest 2018 with music from the movies. Drawing on moments of magic from history (Titanic) to fantasy (Beauty and the Beast) and much in between, we’ll re-live those moments through songs from the movies. (read more…)

L’Arche is fostering an open, inclusive, and compassionate Canada, one in which people with intellectual disabilities can find their place. (read more…)

Pondering the eternal questions.

Gentlemen, on Tuesday, April 10, we will be meeting for a delectable dinner (6:30 pm for socializing, 7:00 for dinner). (read more…)

We welcome guest speaker Jolene Goulet to The Open Door this Sunday at 10:30 a.m. She will be talking about the work of Christians Against Poverty. (read more…)

Come and unburden your heart

How are you feeling right now…

Tired?
Bone-weary?
Frustrated?
Bored?

Whatever your week has held, whatever you’re facing, whatever you’re carrying…

At Breathe you’ll find some space,
something of peace,
some grounding,
something of the unforced rhythms of grace. (read more…)

Growing to a New Level in Faith

(read more…)

We’re taking a break on Easter Monday, April 2, 2018. The church office will be closed, and Youth Night activities will not take place. (read more…)

On Monday, March 26 at 7:30 p.m., the youth of St. John’s lead us in a service that recounts the Passion story – the story of Jesus’s suffering and crucifixion. (read more…)

Contemplative Fire’s monthly gathering is happening at St. Leonard’s Church on Palm Sunday, March 25, starting at 4:00 p.m. (read more…)

How could a seed of faith become planted in a most unlikely person? We’ll talk about this at A Night Out with God and the Girls on Friday, March 23. (read more…)

The Lent-Easter 2018 edition of The Link is now available: in the foyer on Sundays, in your mail box or e-mail inbox, and online right here. (read more…)

The Hour of Daylight Saving Time is upon us (read more…)

What makes or breaks a marriage?

Gentlemen, join us for dinner and discussion on March 13 at 6:30 p.m. when we continue the conversation: Being a Christian man in a post-Harvey Weinstein world. This month, we talk about marriage: what do we need to do to make it work, and how can we avoid the stumbling blocks. (read more…)

The Lychgate Group meets on Thursday March 8 at 7 p.m. This month we welcome Constable Howard Clements who will speak on fraud prevention. (read more…)

1:30 p.m.: Part of a global community

On Friday March 2, 2018, Christians from 170 countries come together in spirit for a day to learn from people of other countries (read more…)

A seriously irreverent book study? It must be a Night Out with God and the Girls!

Pastrix: the Cranky Beautiful Faith of a Sinner & Saint by Nadia Bolz-Weber (read more…)

Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John

Lent is the time of year when Christians are called on to reflect on our past, seek to renew our relationship with God, and chart a course for the days ahead. We step back from the busy-ness of our day-to-day lives to make space for self-examination, prayer, insight, and self-renewal.

A Lenten Guide

This year, the leaders at St. John’s have selected a lenten guide to help you along the way:

Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John

A six-week offering of prayer and reflection
on the words of John the Evangelist (read more…)

We’re taking a break for Family Day. The church office will be closed, and there will be no Youth Night activities, on Monday February 19, 2018. (read more…)

Ash Wednesday is our entry into the season of Lent. Services take place at 7:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. at St. John’s, and at 12:15 p.m. at St. Leonard’s. (read more…)

• St John’s • St Leonard’s • YLF •

Pancake supper on Shrove Tuesday, prepared and served by the Scouts, has been a long-standing tradition at St. Leonard’s (read more…)

This Sunday at The Forum, we invite all congregants to take part as we discuss St. John’s Third Century Fund. What will be our legacy to the next generation? (read more…)

Director of Children’s Ministry (part-time)

We are looking for someone who will develop our existing ministry to children and move us on to the next level with fresh vision and energy (read more…)

The Lychgate Women’s Group welcomes Jacqueline Kennedy to talk about urban bees and beekeeping. Everyone is welcome. Come at 7:00 p.m. to enjoy (read more…)

A “Souper” potluck for Outreach

WHEN:    Sunday, February 4 after The Open Door

WHERE: The foyer and the Garnsworthy Room

WHAT:     SOUPer Bowl Sunday lunch and cook-off

WHO:      The SJYM Youth kitchen crew and you (read more…)

You are invited to take part in our monthly worship and communion, starting at 4 p.m. at St. Leonard’s church. Find a spiritual passion born in stillness and reflection. (read more…)

This month, we meet at St. John’s at 6:00 p.m. to listen to a selected podcast and then discuss over refreshments. Then at 7:15, we’re invited to watch (read more…)

The debate live from Convocation Hall

Join us as we hear a provocative discussion between three scholars as they offer their insights into this timeless question. This event is part of the Religion and Society Series hosted by Wycliffe College.

On Friday, January 26th from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Convocation Hall we welcome philosopher and author Dr. Rebecca Goldstein, philosopher William Lane Craig, and psychology professor Dr. Jordan Peterson for what will be an exciting two hours of dialogue, moderated by journalist Karen Stiller. (read more…)

Sharing a meal, fostering a community

This Sunday at The Open Door we emphasize fellowship with a guest preacher, holy communion, and a casual lunch after. (read more…)

The envelopes for weekly offerings for the year of 2018 are now available for pick-up. Find them in the foyer on Sunday mornings and in the office during the week. (read more…)

After taking a break for the Christmas holidays, Monday Nights are once again Youth Nights at SJYM, beginning on January 15. (read more…)

The Lychgate Group gathers for the first regular meeting of the new year. This month, we welcome Tom Hayes who will speak about the parables of Jesus. (read more…)

The Shepherds Tell the Good News, by the children and youth of SJYM. A star brighter than any other recently appeared in the sky. What does it mean? (read more…)

Being a Christian Man Today

In the past year, a cultural and moral shock wave has rolled over us. Taboos around sex and power relationships have been brought to the front pages of the news media. Careers have been destroyed in the blink of an eye, previously-silenced victims are speaking out, and many people are wondering: what are the rules now?

This month, Tim Taylor will lead us in a discussion on: Being a Christian man in a post- Harvey Weinstein world. We’ll look at the issue from several perspectives.

• One is as a man in the covenantal relationship of marriage. What guides us as a loving husband? Does that change in a same-gender relationship?
• Another is as a man interacting in the world at large, especially as we interact with people over whom we may have power and/or authority.
• Is Paul a misogynist or was he the seminal feminist Christian theologian?
• WWJD?

(read more…)

Procrastinators, this is your time to shine! Donations must be received no later than December 31 to be applied to the 2017 tax year. (read more…)

We Sang and Rang and filled the church with music on Dec 10. Thanks to you, we raised a record amount for Canadian Anglican world relief and development. (read more…)

The day before Christmas is the day filled with both anticipation and with joy. Through the season of Advent we have been anticipating, waiting, and preparing (read more…)

The Advent 2017 issue of The Link – SJYM’s quarterly newsletter – has arrived. Find it online here, on paper in the foyer on Sunday, or in your mailbox. (read more…)

On November 18, 2017, the human rights lawyer and 2017 CBC Massey Lecturer Payam Akhavan spoke at SJYM. A recording of his talk is available here (read more…)

The story of Christmas through words and music

It is the the magnificent story of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a story of a promise made a long time ago, of a promise kept two thousand years ago, of the birth of Jesus in a humble abode, and of the joy that started to fill the world that very night.

Come and be a part of SJYM’s Candlelight and Carols Service, when the handbell ringers and the choir join with readers to tell the story of Christmas through words and music. (read more…)

The Barnabas team is hosting a Christmas Breakfast on December 13, 2017, and they’re hoping you will be an angel and support them for this special day. (read more…)

Is Jesus the only way to God?

In the Bible, Jesus says “No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6). This month, we meet at St. Leonard’s church (read more…)

‘Tis the Season to Make a Joyful Noise

Kick off the Christmas season on a high note when the Handbell Ringers of St. John’s join the Band and the Choir to fill the church with the songs and carols of Christmas.

For your Sunday afternoon, enjoy seasonal songs both traditional and modern. You – the audience – get to join in: everyone gets to sing along to some well-known songs, and children have an opportunity to come up to the stage and try ringing the handbells. (read more…)

On Tuesday, December 5 at 2 p.m., St. John’ offers a Christmas eucharist especially for seniors and others who cannot attend on Sundays.  (read more…)

Contemplative Fire invites you to Holy Waiting: a gathering to mark the beginning of the season of Advent, at St. Leonard’s Church beginning at 4:00 p.m. (read more…)

The Ingram Ringers of St. John’s will be performing at the Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District this afternoon at 3:30 and again at 4:30 p.m. (read more…)

On Saturday November 18 at 7:30 p.m., St John’s handbell ringers join handbell choirs from around Ontario for a concert at St Mark’s Coptic Cathedral. (read more…)

Payam Akhavan, a renowned human rights lawyer and 2017 CBC Massey Lecturer, will be speaking at St. John’s on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at 4:00 p.m.

Professor Payam Akhavan: In Search of a Better World

Payam Akhavan set out on a noble mission, traveling to Sarajevo with the UN 20 years ago to help promote justice and to bring war criminals to trial. His idealism was severely tested by the realities of capturing and trying leaders for crimes against humanity, and he returned as a changed person struggling with his own moral values. (read more…)

Hosted by the Parish Council

They’re back! On the second Sunday of every month, following The Open Door service, all are invited to enjoy a potluck lunch. Stay and enjoy a filling lunch while sampling a variety of tasty offerings.

This month, the Parish Council hosts the lunch. Members of the Council provide a variety of entrees and desserts.

All congregants are bring a favourite dish if they like – it’s optional – or simply enjoy the food that is on offer. (read more…)

Do you think to yourself, “I could use an extra hour of sleep?” You’re in luck: Daylight Savings Time ends this Sunday, November 5. The clocks go back one hour (read more…)

Women of the Lychgate Group gather for our regular monthly meeting. We welcome Rev. Tim Taylor who will speak about his pilgrimage on the Camino Santiago. (read more…)

What should be the priorities for St. John’s in the next few years? You are invited to hear ideas and share opinions at a Town Hall following The Open Door. (read more…)

Our duty to remember

On Sunday, November 5, 2017, St. John’s will hold services to commemorate Remembrance Day. (read more…)

On Saturday, November 4, the annual Outreach and Advocacy Conference, hosted by the Diocese of Toronto, takes place at St. John’s. (read more…)

An annual tradition of fellowship

Each year, the men of the St. John’smen group host the highly regarded St. John’smen’s Dinner. The evening is open to all male parishioners of St. John’s, and we encourage attendees to make it an event by bringing their fathers and sons. The evening includes a reception with hors d’oeuves, a full-course meal, the presentation of the St. John’sman of the Year award, and then a talk by a notable speaker.

Dr. Peter Stotland on advances in oncology

This year, on November 2, 2017, we are pleased to welcome Dr. Peter Stotland, a surgical oncologist who practices at North York General Hospital, to speak on Helping your Health – Beating Colorectal Cancer. Dr. Stotland brings good news on the medical front: recent advances in detection and treatment have greatly improved not only the success rate but also the quality of life for patients with colon cancer. Dr. Stotland will also talk about ideas and lessons that we can take from his work to apply in our own lives. (read more…)

500th anniversary of Luther’s 95 Theses

When Martin Luther wrote his 95 Theses, he was hoping to get people talking about the sale of indulgences – promises of escape from punishment for sin in exchange for money – which he believed were a corrupt practice. Instead the publication of the Theses marked the start of the Protestant Reformation, which saw large numbers of Christians split away from the Roman Catholic church to form Protestant churches.

The Protestant Reformation is considered to have begun on October 31, 1517, when Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenburg, Germany, which makes October 31 of this year, 2017, the 500th anniversary.

Teachings that infuse the modern church

Martin Luther went on to call for other reforms to the church of his day, and many of these infuse the beliefs of our modern church. For example:

• Christians must look to the scriptures, rather than to priests, for the definitive source of Christian doctrines.
• Ordinary people should be able to read their Bibles, hence the Bible should be available in the language of the people.
• People gain entry into heaven through God’s grace alone. Doing good works cannot grant you entry into heaven.

(read more…)

At home and in the commmunity

The Rockin’ Ringers performed for the congregation on October 1, Harvest Sunday

The Handbell Ringers of St. John’s are performing throughout the fall and in the Christmas season.

They perform at venues in and around Toronto as well as here at home. At St. John’s you will find them at the regular services on selected Sundays, at special services such as Christmas Candlelight and Carols, and of course at the musical highlight of the season, Sing and Ring. (read more…)

At Wycliffe College

• Be Inspired • Be Equipped •

The Toronto Children’s Ministry Conference is a gathering of people dedicated to the spiritual growth of children (read more…)

This is not your average book study! Women of all ages are invited to the next gathering on Friday, October 27: 205 The Donway West beginning at 7:00 p.m. (read more…)

Treats and music for the season

On Sunday afternoon, October 29, warm up to fall with Bachtoberfest. The afternoon starts at 3 p.m. with a reception in the Garnsworthy room where there will be seasonal snacks and drinks. Enjoy some refreshments, meet the musicians, talk to friends, or just relax.

At 4 p.m. we move into the sanctuary for a recital of works of J.S. Bach. Our music director, Patrick Dewell, will be performing on the organ. He will be accompanied by the choir leads for some choral renditions. (read more…)

Looking at the year ahead: have your say.

Once a year, the congregation of St. John’s York Mills Anglican Church is invited to gather with the leaders (read more…)

Scott Kennedy on our area’s history

On Thursday, October 12, 2017, the Lychgate Group is pleased to present Scott Kennedy speaking at St. John’s. (read more…)

Call for nominations to the 2017-18 Parish Council. The Parish Council is the voice of the parish in the direction of the church throughout the year. (read more…)

Christians are called on to believe in miracles, especially those in the gospels. Science does not accept miracles: earthly events have earthly causes (read more…)

On Sunday morning, October 1, 2017, we observed the 10-year anniversary of Rev. Drew MacDonald’s leadership of our parish. (read more…)

This is not your average book study! Women of all ages are invited to the next gathering on Friday, October 27: 205 The Donway West beginning at 7:00 p.m. There will be wine; also, snacks! (read more…)

Come and help us say goodbye to Rev. Anne Crosthwait as she steps down from her role as Associate Priest. Following the Open Door service (read more…)

Yonge Lawrence Fellowship is offering a five-session parenting course inspired by Barbara Coloroso’s best-selling book, Kids Are Worth It. The course includes (read more…)

Scheduled to start in the week of September 17, St. John’s is launching new offerings of the acclaimed “Apprentice” life study courses. (read more…)

Or is God a figment of our imagination? Two great minds – Alister McGrath, theologian, and Michael Shermer, skeptic – go head to head at Convocation Hall (read more…)

The Lychgate Group is gathering for a “welcome back” potluck dinner on Thursday, September 14, starting at 7:30 p.m. Women of the parish are invited (read more…)

Gentlemen, if you hunger for intellectual stimulation and spiritual growth along with good food and fellowship, the Men’s Supper Club is for you. (read more…)

Good food, good fun, good cause

Our annual Barbecue for Outreach is happening on Sunday, September 10, following The Open Door service. Join us on the patio for some hot food, cold drinks, and tasty treats. In addition, St. John’s youth will be washing cars, there will be a raffle for great prizes, and possibly someone will be getting a pie in the face. (read more…)

Monday Nights are Youth Nights at SJYM. On Monday, September 11, join Rev. Tim in the Youth Room at 7 p.m. for social time and for an unstructured forum. (read more…)

This September, the Yonge Lawrence Fellowship will reprise two of its popular offerings: The Parenting Course (starting Sept 20) and Alpha (starting Sept 28). (read more…)

Starting Sept 10 – Register now

A new year is starting in the Children’s Ministry at St. John’s. Registration is now open for programs for children in JK/SK to grade 6.

Train children in the right way,
and when old, they will not stray.
Proverbs 22:6

Getting started

Here is what you need to know for getting your children started in the 2017-2018 program:

• Registration dates: Open now; registration continues until September 10.
• Registration forms: Available here (fillable PDF) and in the foyer on Sunday mornings.
• Completed forms: Please e-mail to welcome@sjym.ca, drop off in the foyer on Sunday mornings, or drop off in the church office during the week.
• Children’s Ministry begins: Sunday, September 10.
• Children’s Ministry runs: Concurrent with The Open Door (Sundays at 10:30 a.m.) from September 2017 to June 2018.

(read more…)

The music starts Monday, Sept 11.

This is the time when families begin to plan for a new school year and start thinking about after-school and weekend activities. Our free handbell and handchime programs are so good for young people. Research shows that music study from an early age supports language and social development, and teaches self-discipline, cooperation and interpersonal skills. In addition, by becoming part of a music community, young people learn to manage everything that comes with public performance: from the care that goes into preparation to the stress of the unexpected to the exhilaration of applause.

Of course, along the way we have fun, laugh and learn — and we would love to have new ringers join us, especially Chimers.

(read more…)

The Kingdomtide edition of The Link is here – with news you can use about fall programs, with looks at the life in the parish, and with reflections on our walks in faith. (read more…)

Here is a guide you can use to study a complete book of the Bible on your own, complete with questions to help you tease out the deeper meanings in the texts. (read more…)

The 2016 edition of the church photo directory has finally arrived! Copies are now available for pick-up: please contact the church office or see Pam Smith (read more…)

The books we’re taking on vacation

The summer of 2017 is here, school has finished, vacations are happening, and we have the time to spend with a good book. But what to choose? To help you decide, here’s a peek at what our clergy are reading. (read more…)

Beverley Salmon, a member of the St. John’s community, was appointed to the Order of Ontario on June 28. The Order of Ontario is the province’s highest honour, (read more…)

Save the trees for shade in the summer! During July and August, we are not printing paper bulletins for the Sunday morning services. (read more…)

SJYM Youth in the Summer is launching for 2017 with a movie night on Tuesday, July 4. We’ll be meeting up at the Cineplex at Yonge and Eglinton (read more…)

James Sholl is joining us for the summer as a McCollum summer student. He’s excited about working with both Yonge Lawrence Fellowship and with SJYM Youth. (read more…)

Sunday mornings at The Open Door

Throughout July and August, St. John’s is offering a summer Children’s Ministry program for children during The Open Door service each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. It’s a drop-in format so children can attend as they like throughout the summer. (read more…)

Our annual Outreach Barbecue will take place Sunday, September 10, following The Open Door. (read more…)

Food for the body. Food for the soul.

Gentlemen, please join us on Tuesday, June 13 for the final gathering of the Men’s Supper Club before the summer break. (read more…)

The Lychgate Group is holding its annual spring party on Thursday June 8 starting at 6:30 p.m., and the women are inviting spouses and significant others (read more…)

From May 25 to 27, the Ontario Guild of English Handbell Ringers (OGEHR) is hosting its annual festival, and St. John’s handbell ringers are taking part. (read more…)

The Pentecost 2017 edition of The Link is now here. This spring, we have seen how community – people meeting to talk, pray, eat, and care for one another (read more…)

Wednesday evenings starting May 31

The Parenting Course returns to Yonge Lawrence Fellowship this Spring.

The book Kids are Worth It by Barbara Coloroso is the inspiration for this course. Barbara is a highly regarded writer and speaker on many aspects of child rearing, including parenting, schools and teaching, and conflict resolution. (read more…)

From May 10 to 23, Rev. Tim will be walking the Camino Portugues on a pilgrimage to Santiago. Join him in spirit by reading two chapters of the Book of Acts each day. (read more…)

The Resurrection of Jesus – An Exclusive Video Report

The SJYM Children’s Ministry news team brings you a video report on what some are saying is a most miraculous event. (read more…)

The Case For Christ: Facts and Faith.

Today, Lee Strobel is well known for being a writer on Christian apologetics.  But in the 1970s, he was
an investigative (read more…)

Getting to know faith and ourselves

The evening begins with dinner and casual conversation. Dinner for this first evening was prepared by a team from St. John’s.

The first offering of Alpha at the Yonge Lawrence Fellowship has begun. Over thirty people have enrolled in the program, which meets every Thursday evening for twelve weeks. (read more…)

For the body and the soul:

Monday night at SJYM is a time for young adults to gather for socializing, for a little food, and for talking about topics both light and heavy. (read more…)

Now on sale are tickets for Musicfest 2017.  They’re available every Sunday morning in the foyer and during office hours from the church office at 416-225-6611. (read more…)

Thank you for a wonderful afternoon!

Thank you to all the musicians, volunteers, and the audience members who made Musicfest 2017 a wonderful and memorable musical journey. All the practice and preparation that went into this day paid off in the great handbell, choral, and band performances of songs from around the world. (read more…)

Spirit Cinema presents Quakers: That of God in Everyone. See stories of the Society of Friends (Quakers) and the outsized role it has played (read more…)

Easter Sunday is the most joyous day of the year as we remember how Jesus was restored back to life. With the resurrection of Jesus, God completed what He started (read more…)

Holy Week runs from Palm Sunday (April 9, 2017) to the next Saturday (April 15). It is a somber time as we recall the events leading up to the death of Jesus. (read more…)

On Wednesday, April 12 at 3 p.m., St. Leonard’s Church is having a service of Eucharist especially for seniors. If you know someone who might like to receive (read more…)

An evening out at the movies:

This month, the SJYM Men’s Supper Club is stepping out to the movie house … and inviting the women to join them! (read more…)

We’re finishing Sarah Bessey’s book, Out of Sorts, with a bang! Join us for an evening of discussion and celebration. (read more…)

Monday, April 3, 2017 is the deadline for registering for Contemplative Fire’s silent retreat – The Splendor of Silence – which takes place April 24 to 28 (read more…)

At 3:45 p.m., the Handbell Ringers of St. John’s are on stage at St. Mark’s Coptic Museum for an interactive concert. It’s part of an afternoon of tours (read more…)

The Power of Forgiveness:

Contemplative Fire presents a moving and multilevel examination of the religious, spiritual and scientific values of forgiveness. (read more…)

Wednesday evenings for six weeks beginning on March 29. The Foundations of the Faith course looks at the essentials that all Christians should know. (read more…)

Treat your ears on Sunday afternoon, March 19, to a selection of choral works spanning classical to gospel to contemporary. The music begins at 4 p.m. (read more…)

It’s engaging. It might be life-changing.

The hugely successful Alpha course has been retooled for a new generation – and it’s coming to Yonge Lawrence Fellowship!

(read more…)

The Lent 2017 edition of The Link newsletter is here.

Lent is a time to pause, to look back and look ahead, and to listen and respond to God’s call. (read more…)

If you have significant doubts about your faith, can you keep the faith, or should you let go of it until you can resolve the doubts? (read more…)

Praying the Anglican Rosary:

This month, the Lychgate group is meeting at SSJD, 233 Cummer Ave, where we’ll do a contemporary take on an ancient tradition. (read more…)

Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 12 at 1 a.m. Services for March 12, 2017 start at 9 a.m. DST (Sacred Table) and 10:30 a.m. DST (Open Door). (read more…)

Join with others St. John’s and other congregations in Toronto at St. Elizabeth of Hungary R.C. Church, 432 Sheppard Ave. E. on March 3 starting at 1:30 p.m. (read more…)

On Ash Wednesday, March 1, St. John’s is holding services at 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Both services include the imposition of ashes. (read more…)

The Wisdom to Survive – Climate Change, Capitalism & Community –

A film that offers an inspiring, enlightening, creative, and practical guide to the spiritual dimensions of climate change. (read more…)

Feb 23: Join us for dinner, stories, and celebration in support of a ministry that brings compassion and transformation to many lives. (read more…)

Feast on Shrove Tuesday

Shrove Tuesday is the last day before the season of Lent, a time for the feast before the fast. (read more…)

Postponed to March 10 –
Contemplative Fire
FIREWORKS!
Engaging and making and difference
with hot topics in our world
(read more…)

Over ten bowls of hot and hearty soup were on offer and all proved to be very popular. The winning soups as selected by the clergy judging team were …

(read more…)

“Everyone Gets To Play” when we discuss Sarah Bessey’s ideas on theology and change in chapter 3 of Out of Sorts: Making Peace with an Evolving Faith. (read more…)

On Sunday January 22 at 7 p.m., Bishop Kevin Robertson will be installed as the new Area Bishop for York-Scarborough. (read more…)

Every Wednesday at 7 pm

• Note – Deep and Wide will be not meeting for the duration of Alpha, which is happening at Yonge Lawrence Fellowship starting on March 30, 2017 and running until June 15. 

A different kind of weekly gathering is happening at the Yonge Lawrence Fellowship. It’s a place for people who want to experience a life well lived, who want to feel that there’s a plan and things are going according to plan, who want to know that their life has value. (read more…)

Starts Jan 19: Be the parent you want to be

It’s never too late to improve your relationship with your child. Start now with a parenting course based on
the internationally bestselling book Kids Are Worth It by Barbara Coloroso. The course is led by Dr. Guy Chevreau. (read more…)

At The Open Door on January 15 at 10:30 a.m., we’re holding a special service of confirmation with Bishop Patrick White presiding. (read more…)

Ladies, you’re invited to the Lychgate monthly meeting where our guest speaker Kerry Chevreau will be talking about sex trafficking in the Far East. (read more…)

Fierce Light: When Spirit Meets Action

Fuelled by a belief that another world is possible, this documentary by filmmaker Velcrow Ripper takes us on a global journey of spiritual activism from its historical roots to those who are igniting a new wave of spiritual activism. The movie profiles the powerful personalities of visionary Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hahn, Nobel Peace Prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Alice Walker, among others. (read more…)

The Children’s Ministry resumes on Sunday, January 8 at The Open Door, 10:30 a.m. We look forward to welcoming you back after the Christmas break. (read more…)

The church office will be open on Friday morning, December 30, from 9 a.m. until noon to receive last-minute donations for the year 2016. (read more…)

Dinner. Discussion. Deeper Insights.

Gentlemen, do you have an appetite for personal growth? Join us for an evening of good food, good fellowship, and thoughtful discussion on topics that matter.

We meet on the second Tuesday of every month. In January, 2017, we’ll be looking at the role of doubt in faith.

Having faith … having doubts

Do you have doubts about your faith? Do you feel uncertain about particular teachings? If you do have doubts, does that mean that perhaps you’re not a true Christian? Writer John Ortberg tackles these questions head on in his book Know Doubt: Embracing Uncertainty in your Faith. (read more…)

Christmas is not over yet. By the Christian calendar, we celebrate Christmas for twelve days, ending with the Feast of the Epiphany. Epiphany falls on January 6 (the 12th day); in 2017 it will be observed on Sunday January 8. (read more…)

Join us as we celebrate the birthday of Jesus, the light of the world, who moved in on Christmas day two millennia ago. (read more…)

The story of Christmas told with words and music (read more…)

The Barnabas team will be hosting the annual Christmas Breakfast on December 14. Your support helps provide a hearty meal and a Christmas gift bag (read more…)

The Winter 2016-17 edition of The Link, our quarterly newsletter, is available online here and in print in the foyer. Looking at the past year and the year ahead, (read more…)

Renewed hope at the darkest time of the year

Do you find the Christmas season to be a difficult time of year? Do you seem to be at odds with the relentless cheerfulness all around you? If you feel this way, you’re not alone.

Join us on December 21 at Healing and Light, our gathering on the darkest day of the year, for a time of healing prayer, of comforting words, and of understanding. We also offer communion for those who wish to partake. (read more…)

Dinner. Discussion. Deeper Insights.

Gentlemen, we gather in December at St. Leonard’s for an evening of food, fellowship, and discussion on topics that matter. (read more…)

On December 4, we kicked off the Christmas season on a high note. The Handbell and Chime Ringers of St. John’s, along with the band an choir, filled the church with the songs and carols of Christmas. (read more…)

Waiting … and watchful …

Advent, which marks the beginning of the Christian church year, begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. For 2016, Advent is from November 27 to December 24. (read more…)

What kind of connection do you have with Jesus? Has that relationship evolved over time? Join us as we explore one person’s roundabout road to faith. (read more…)

Reading what others have to say about their Christian faith journeys is a great way to nourish your own faith. Here are two books that groups at SJYM are studying (read more…)

On Saturday November 19 at 7:30 p.m., St. John’s Rockin’ Ringers will be ringing with five other handbell choirs at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Markham. (read more…)

‘Tis the Season to Make a Joyful Noise

(read more…)

On Friday, November 11 at 10:30 a.m., St. John’s hosts a special Remembrance Day Service at the Yonge Corporate Centre, 4100 Yonge Street. (read more…)

Why not set your clocks back on Saturday evening, November 5? Enjoy an extra hour of uninterrupted sleep and still be at church on time Sunday morning. (read more…)

Nov 5 • Be inspired • Be equipped

The Toronto Children’s Ministry Conference is a gathering of people who are dedicated to the spiritual growth of children (read more…)

Join us at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 29, when majestic organ music will fill the sanctuary in a concert for St. John’s 200th anniversary. (read more…)

From now until Christmas, our Handbell and Chime Choirs are in concert at St. John’s and elsewhere. Learn when and where in the schedule posted here (read more…)

A comedy classic with live organ music.

(Click on poster for larger image)

Please join us on Saturday, November 12 at 7:30 p.m. for the screening of the classic silent movie Speedy (1928; 86 minutes), a comedy starring Harold Lloyd. (read more…)

Ordinary women. Extraordinary faith.

Join us on October 27 for Contemplative Fire’s Spirit Cinema when we screen Pray the Devil Back to Hell (read more…)

An initiative of Contemplative Fire, where we discuss today’s hot topics. This month, we consider our reaction to the recent Assisted Dying legislation. (read more…)

Looking at the year ahead: have your say.

Once a year, the congregation of St. John’s York Mills Anglican Church is invited to gather with the leadership to review the accomplishments of the past year and to discuss the plans for the year ahead. (read more…)

For newcomers and for the curious

Are you new to St. John’s? Wanting to re-connect? Or just curious to learn more?

Rev. Drew and Rev. Anne are hosting a morning to learn about life at St John’s. It is an informal time for you to get to know us better, and for us to find out what is important to you. We discuss topics that range from the fundamentals – what are our core beliefs and practices – to the practical – who’s who at St. John’s and what programs we have. Learn about all the things that we have to offer, and why so many people have chosen to be a part of the community of faith that is St. John’s. (read more…)

On Thursday, October 13, the women of the Lychgate Group gather. This month, it’s all about the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides program. (read more…)

Gentlemen, please join us for an evening of dinner, discussion and fellowship. This month we look at Islam, Christianity, and the story of one man’s crisis of faith. (read more…)

SJYM takes on life’s difficult questions

(read more…)

Attention, Women of St. John’s! On Tuesday, October 4 at 7:00 p.m., we will gather for the first meeting of a new, women’s monthly book study group. (read more…)

Registration is now open for the 2016 Toronto Children’s Ministry Conference. If you are interested in or involved with nurturing children’s Christian growth, mark Nov. 5 (read more…)

Now available – one church, many stories. Just released is a new book about this historic church – 200 Years at St. John’s York Mills by Scott Kennedy with Jeanne Hopkins.

The new book 200 Years at St. John’s York Mills brings the history of St. John’s up to date. It tells the wonderful stories of St. John’s with emphasis on the past 50 years and is a complement to 150 Years at St. John’s York Mills by Audrey Graham, published in 1966. (read more…)

Two worldviews. One central question.

For most of his life, Abdu was a proud Muslim who studied the Qur’an and Islam. After a nine-year investigation into (read more…)

The Fall edition of The Link, our quarterly newsletter, is available online here and in print in the foyer.

In this special edition that marks our 200th anniversary (read more…)

Journey of the Heart: The Life of Henri Nouwen is the story of the complex and compassionate life of a man who helped shape modern spirituality. (read more…)

Ladies, the Lychgate Group is getting together for the first meeting of the fall on Thursday, September 8, starting with a potluck supper at 6:30 p.m. (read more…)

A music program that hits all the right notes

Choosing after-school activities for your family? Our free handbell and handchime programs are so good for your children. As a recent article puts it:

“Studying music from an early age has proven to be beneficial in almost every aspect of a child’s life. Learning to read and understand music and its underlying theory facilitates learning many other subjects. Music is shown to lead to language development and increase verbal recall. As they develop higher language and social skills, children become well rounded and benefit from the intrinsic benefits of learning music. They become disciplined, learn a skill and become part of a community they can be proud of. They learn to manage performances and the related anxiety and learn interpersonal skills like cooperation, sharing and compromise” 

Of course we have fun, laugh and learn! We would love to have new children join us. (read more…)

This Fall, Rev. Tim is hosting classes for young people to prepare for Confirmation. Class starts at 7:15 p.m. Come early and help Tim make soup! (read more…)

A special day of worship and celebration

St. John’s is 200 years old this week, and we celebrate this Sunday, September 18, with two distinctive services. All parishioners, former parishioners, former clergy, and friends of St. John’s are warmly invited to attend. (read more…)

Jeanny Hwang, SJYM’s new Children’s Ministry coordinator

St. John’s is very happy to welcome Jeanny Hwang to the church and to her new role as coordinator for Children’s Ministry. (read more…)

In your life, do you measure up? Or do you fall short? The reality is that you may need to change the way you measure self worth. Tara Birch explains how. (read more…)

Sermon Series: Sundays at The Open Door

Some people have the idea that Jesus’s teachings are a kind of “how to” guide for living a good life. They feel that the gospels offer easy-to-follow instructions and advice that anyone can apply with a little practice.

These people are in for disappointment when they read their bibles because they find that Jesus did not give a step-by-step guide. Indeed what he did say often seems baffling, even contradictory. (read more…)

A journey to faith through discovery

The Men’s Supper Club is resuming, after taking a break for the summer. You’re invited to an evening that will feature fellowship, a hearty meal, and some thoughtful discussion around a topic of real relevance.

We’ll be taking a look at the journey of faith of one man, Nabeel Qureshi, who was raised in the Muslim faith, who as a young adult felt a passion to deepen his faith, and who ended up feeling compelled, against his will, to the faith that is centred on Christ. In the book Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus, Qureshi tells of the conflicts he had to deal with along the way, both with his family and with his own heart. (read more…)

On Wednesday, August 24, Summer Soul takes a look at the ‘ACT’ approach to finding fulfilment and happiness in life with all its ups and downs.
(read more…)

Gentlemen, the next meeting of the Men’s Supper Club is on Sept. 13, only a month away! Perhaps you had time to read the book that will be up for discussion (read more…)

On Wednesday, August 17, starting at 7 p.m., come and learn techniques that will help you achieve the benefits of Mindfulness in the workplace. (read more…)

On August 14, at The Open Door, Rev. Anne will wrap up the summer’s series on Freedom with a talk: On a Road Trip to Freedom. (read more…)

On Wednesday, August 10, starting at 7 p.m., come and learn how the practice of Mindfulness can help you to lessen and manage pain. (read more…)

From the acorn to the oak tree

Stages of Growth

Clergy, lay leaders and members of SJYM have envisioned an intentional program of Christian education, based on the Apprenticeship Principle. Its goal is “oak trees” — well-rooted Christian disciples who make Him known in everything they are and do. Using resources and groups already in place in our church, the teaching program unfolds in stages. (read more…)

Many have been following the deliberations of the recent General Synod on the question of same-sex marriage and have been wondering what does this mean for us at St John’s. (read more…)

Summertime, and the reading is easy … but it can still feed your soul! Try one of these titles, recommended by staff and clergy. (read more…)

Summer Soul begins this Wednesday July 6 at 7 p.m. with: Introduction to Mindfulness. An evening featuring a video, discussion, and practice. (read more…)

A relaxed program in July and August

Throughout July and August, and up until September 11, St. John’s is offering a relaxed Children’s Ministry program for children in grades 1 through 8. The program is offered during The Open Door service each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. It’s a drop-in format so children can attend optionally throughout the summer. (read more…)

The books we’re reading on vacation

Summer. A time when school has finished, vacations are happening, and we have the time to relax and immerse in a good book. But what to choose?

Here’s a peek at what Drew+ and Anne+ are reading this summer. An ideal summer book is one that’s easy to read yet engages you in a meaningful way, and these selections surely fill the bill. (read more…)

Wednesdays at 7 in July and August

Want to enhance your ability to relax during the summer? Join us for a speaker, discussion and practice around the art of simply enjoying each moment, with the help of Anne’s+ video shelf.

Each week we’ll listen to a short presentation by a world-recognized speaker. Then, we’ll enjoy a discussion and practice what we’ve heard. (read more…)

The Spring 2016 edition of The Link newsletter is here. You can receive it in your e-mailbox, pick up a paper copy at church on Sunday, or click to read it online. (read more…)

On May 28 and 29, we welcomed visitors to our church and churchyard for the Doors Open Toronto 2016 weekend. Here are highlights in words and pictures. (read more…)

Looking for yoga classes that are fun, invigorating and affordable? Then take a look at the classes now being hosted at St. John’s. (read more…)

Do you enjoy working with children? Would you like to be part of a lively and supportive team? Are you seeking summer employment? (read more…)

It’s the last meeting of the Men’s Supper Club before the summer, so we’re going outside for a barbecue. It’s a time for burgers and hotdogs, a time for looking back (read more…)

A summer tradition – Updated!

This year marks the 200th anniversary of St. John’s, and to help celebrate, we’re holding a Strawberry Social. (read more…)

Welcome to a church both old and new.

St. John’s is 200 years old, and to celebrate we’re inviting everyone to visit our church building and churchyard during Doors Open Toronto (read more…)

The English Conversation Fellowship will be taking a break for the summer. Our final meeting will be on Tuesday, May 26 at 1 p.m. (read more…)

What it really is and how to have it

Personal freedom is a defining idea in our society, yet many of us struggle to be free, and others who think they have reached freedom feel oddly discontented. Perhaps the idea of freedom is not as simple as we might have thought. (read more…)

“Let the little children come unto me,
and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of God
belongs to such as these.” 
(Mark 10:14, NIV) (read more…)

For newcomers and for the curious

Are you new to St. John’s? Wanting to re-connect? Or just curious to learn more?

Rev. Drew and Rev. Anne are hosting a morning to learn about life at St John’s. It is an informal time for you to get to know us better, and for us to find out what is important to you. We discuss topics that range from the fundamentals – what are our core beliefs and practices – to the practical – who’s who at St. John’s and what programs we have. Learn about all the things that we have to offer, and why so many people have chosen to be a part of the community of faith that is St. John’s. You’ll even get to discover hidden places of our historic building on a guided tour. (read more…)

The Decision to be a Christian:

John Stott, in his book Basic Christianity, explains the fundamentals of the Christian faith (read more…)

On Thursday, May 5 starting at 7:30 p.m., the Rev. Tim Taylor will be ordained as a priest in a ceremony at St. John’s. Watch it live on YouTube. (read more…)

For five days, from Monday May 9 to Friday May 13, discover the gifts of the spiritual discipline of silence at Manresa Retreat Centre in Pickering. (read more…)

On May 10, several members of the parish will be travelling to Jamaica for a week to continue fostering our relationship with Sandy Bay Primary School (read more…)

Over the course of the past year, challenges and opportunities have presented themselves to St. John’s. How do we respond to the calls that are on us? (read more…)

For the past three years Chantal Sathi has been leading the Children’s and Youth Ministries at St. John’s. Now she is moving on to new opportunities at Ravi Zacharias (read more…)

Seneca Ketchum was instrumental in the founding of St. John’s. He also lived a rather colourful life two centuries ago. His story and his legacy are recalled (read more…)

Starting on Tuesday, May 5, at 7 p.m. in the Marsh Room: The Yarn-Yarn Sisterhood (and its divine secrets).

We’re launching a new women’s group (read more…)

Historian – Raconteur – Torontonian.

Spend an evening with Mike Filey as he looks back at the events, the culture, and the people that have shaped St. John’s over the past 200 years.

Mike Filey is a popular historian who has spent years researching, writing about, and speaking on the history of his hometown, Toronto. He has written more than two dozen books, including The TTC Story, the First 75 Years; I Remember Sunnyside; A Toronto Portrait; and Toronto, Then and Now. He has been a regular contributor for over 30 years to the Toronto Sun with his column, The Way We Were; many of these columns have been collected and published in a series of books, Toronto Sketches, The Way We Were (volumes 1 to 12). Mike is known not just for his knowledge of Toronto’s past, but for bringing that knowledge to life in an lively and engaging way. (read more…)

When having it all is not enough

“There’s a place deep within us that wants to feel fulfilled. That wants to know my life has made a difference.” – Dr Wayne Dyer (read more…)

The cost of being a Christian:

The gospels offer the “good news” of God’s great gifts to all of us. But in return, what obligations are put on us?
(read more…)

Ask questions. Get answers.

Every Sunday at 12:30, right after The Forum, Drew+ invites youth ages 13 and up to join him for lunch and conversation. Meet in the sanctuary to plan the lunch order – pizza or perhaps something else.

Then we move to the meeting room for food and for talk. There’s be lots of time to discuss and ask questions and offer opinions while we wait for lunch to arrive. School, friendship, social life, culture, family, sexuality, work, the world and your place in it — we’ll hold it all up to the light of faith and see what the Bible has to say about it.

If you’re a teenager, your invited – and invited to bring a friend!

Youth Forum
Sundays @ 12:30 p.m.
Meet in the sanctuary
Hosted by Rev. Drew

Prayer is an integral part of the life of a Christian, alone in quiet places and together in groups. At SJYM a small group meets every week to pray.
(read more…)

Thinking about the reasons for belief

St. John’s is pleased to welcome Dr. Andy Bannister as the guest speaker at The Open Door on Sunday April 17. Andy will speak on the topic of “Why I Believe in the Resurrection.” The resurrection of Christ on the first Easter morning is one of the most pivotal events in history – and an event that can seem unbelievable. Could the body of a man dead for 48 hours really be returned to life? Does Jesus’s return to life really signal a victory over death?

Andy is part of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, a worldwide organization that “helps thinkers believe and believers think.” On April 17, he will explore the evidence and the reasoning that has convinced him that the resurrection is indeed a fact. (read more…)

Nurture the marriage that you really want.

In modern culture we have the idea that to have a successful marriage, you have to find a soulmate who is a perfect match for you, so if you run into problems in your marriage the implication is that you married the wrong person. In fact a successful marriage is a balance of making a wise choice in who you marry, combined with a willingness and an ability to foster a healthy relationship with your partner.

The Marriage Course is designed to help couples delve into their relationships and learn ways to nurture and maintain a healthy, loving, and enduring marriage. The course covers the full scope of a healthy marriage, from communication, through conflict and forgiveness, to the impact of the wider family to how we relate with our partners. (read more…)

Being present in the Here and Now

For three Fridays in March, Contemplative Fire invites you to take time to experience the practice of mindfulness. (read more…)

Starting in March, we are again offering courses based on the acclaimed Apprenticeship Series by James Bryan Smith. Each course runs for ten weeks. (read more…)

St. John’s is 200 years old, and we’re marking the anniversary by releasing two books that tell the story of our church and community: one old and one new. (read more…)

Every Thursday at 1 p.m., people who are learning English gather for an hour to practice conversing in English in a casual, friendly setting. (read more…)

Spring must almost be here because “March, Music & Merriment” is back! Come on out to St. John’s Anglican Church this Sunday at 5 p.m. to hear our choir’s (read more…)

Bonhoeffer: a Christian in adversity

On screen is “Bonhoeffer”, the portrait of a German theologian determined to change the world for the better. Join us beforehand for a soup supper.

Bonhoeffer – This 2003 documentary is a portrait of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German theologian who was imprisoned and killed for plotting to assassinate Hitler. This film conveys the essence of a man and his world. Bonhoeffer’s life is lyrically presented, with his friends and family shedding light on his breakaway seminary, his travels to America and Harlem, his calls to change the world for better, and his noble attempts to respond to a war-time Germany as a Christian. Written and Directed by Martin Doblmeier. (read more…)

Salvation: What it means for us

Spend any time in church and you will hear talk about “salvation”, often in conjunction with that other word, “sin”. But what is salvation, really? Does it really mean that God forgives all our sins, just like that? Does it mean we can live as we please with the comfort of knowing that nothing we do will be counted against us?

As you might suspect, the reality is more complicated. God does not seek to see people freed of responsibility for their sins; he seeks to see people free of sin. But how can you become free of sin? (read more…)

The World Day of Prayer is an ecumenical movement that brings Christians of all faith traditions together in an annual common day of prayer. (read more…)

Congratulations to the four seminary students who have been awarded bursaries from the Archdeacon A.C. McCollum Fund 2016. (read more…)

A reprint of the book “150 Years at St. John’s York Mills”, written by M. Audrey Graham in 1966, is now available for purchase. (read more…)

One of our core values at St John’s is spiritual growth which is reflected in a love of learning. A large part of that spiritual growth takes place in our small groups (read more…)

It is important that refugee sponsors have the right tools and most up-to-date information for successful refugee sponsorship. (read more…)

A Soup Cook-off with SJYM Youth

WHEN: Sunday, February 7 starting at 11:30 a.m.

WHERE: The foyer and the Garnsworthy Room

WHAT: Second annual SOUPer Bowl Sunday fundraising lunch and cook-off

WHO: The SJYM Senior Youth and you (read more…)

The Christmas story as re-enacted by the children of St. John’s is now on-line. Watch the video here and read about how it was made. (read more…)

Can you be drawn toward the stillness of monastic contemplation, yet want to act to change the world? A new blog explores questions like this (read more…)

Join us on January 22nd at 7 p.m. at St. Mary Magdalene church for an evening around the 2014 film The Many Storeys and Last Days of Thomas Merton. (read more…)

“Let the little children come unto me,
and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of God
belongs to such as these.”
(Mark 10:14, NIV) (read more…)

Christ’s Death: What it Means for Us

Ever wonder why the symbol of Christianity is the cross? Why do we use a symbol that memorializes the cruel death of Jesus? Why don’t we use a positive symbol such as a lamp (the light of knowledge) or a sheep (a follower of Christ)?

The reason the cross is the central symbol of Christianity is because the death of Jesus on the cross is the centre of Christian theology. This is the central event that binds together so many other things – Jesus being simultaneously God and human, His death followed by His return to life, sin and redemption, the nature of the love of God, the purpose of our own existence, how we should live our lives. (read more…)

Help! My kids are (about to be) Teenagers!

Parenting teenagers is one of the most challenging and rewarding tasks that you might ever do. Wherever you are on your parenting journey – about to enter the teen years or in the middle of them already – please join us for Family Night at SJYM starting in January.

Starting January 11 and running every Monday for five weeks until February 8, you can share some food and engage in relaxed conversation about parenting, and meet other people in the midst of their own parenting journeys. (read more…)

Starting your Journey with SJYM

Are you new or new-ish to St. John’s? Do you want to know what you can expect here? Then this course is for you!

Over five weeks, we’ll gather on Mondays at 7:00 p.m. for a light supper of soup. Then Drew will lay it all out: our mission, what we preach, our immediate goals, and the many ways you can grow at SJYM. Now is the time to make sure that this is the place for you. (read more…)

The Children’s Ministry will take a break for Christmas on December 27 and January 3. Programs start again on January 10, 2016. (read more…)

The Winter 2015 edition of The Link newsletter is out. You can receive it in your e-mailbox, pick up a paper copy at church on Sunday, or read it online here. (read more…)

For those who find Christmas difficult

On the shortest day of the year we offer a Service of Light to bring hope into the world. (read more…)

Take a good look at a difficult topic

Sin. It’s everybody’s least favourite topic. Some people avoid saying the word; others think that it’s not worth worrying about (read more…)

Every Sunday at 9 a.m. we gather at the Sacred Table to partake in the Holy Communion. Come and be nourished by the gifts of God. (read more…)

Every Sunday at 10:30 is the Open Door: a gathering for prayer, teaching and song. Purposeful and relaxed. Rich and accessible. (read more…)

Every Sunday following the Open Door, grab a coffee and bring it back into the church with your questions. At The Forum, the floor is open – let’s discuss! (read more…)

Over two Saturday mornings – November 28 and December 5 – learn about sound systems and how to run the system at St. John’s. (read more…)

A special service at the start of Advent

Does the Christmas season seem like a frantic time of year? There is an alternative to the crush and panic. St. John’s and Contemplative Fire are offering a quiet and reflective service on November 29 to mark the first day of Advent. This service gives us the time and the space to prepare our hearts for a faith-filled celebration of Christmas.

Here is an offering of a different way, a calmer way, that invites us to take the time to breathe and to anticipate. (read more…)

The women of the Lychgate group meet on the second Thursday of every month to socialize, hear from guest speakers, and take on projects. (read more…)

Practice Waiting … and Anticipating

Friday, December 4
6.00-9.00 p.m.
(light supper included)

and/or

Saturday, December 5
9.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m.
(drinks and snacks provided)

What does it mean to you to wait in the presence of God?

With a mixture of mindfulness and art we’ll explore how to expand our capacity to wait. In our rushing world, waiting is not easy to do! Drawing on the Advent theme and Christmas celebration we’ll experience ways of waiting in the presence of God. (read more…)

Come Home for Christmas

During this holy season of Advent and Christmas, why not come home to St. John’s? Our family of faith would love to welcome you!

Advent — Sunday December 3 to Sunday December 24, 2017 — is  a season of waiting: waiting for the earthly incarnation of Jesus, our Lord and Saviour. It’s also a season of preparing: putting up Christmas lights and the tree, shopping for gifts, making travel plans to be with loved ones at Christmas.

Come join us, and think about inviting a friend or family member. Whether you seek the deeper meaning of this holy season in a service such as Candlelight and Carols (Dec 17), or just want be merry and festive at Sing and Ring (Dec 10), there’s something here for all.

On Christmas Eve, the final day of Advent – Sunday, December 24 – we have three services. At 10:30 a.m. is the contemporary Open Door, at 5:00 p.m. is the lively Family Christmas, and finally at 10:00 p.m. is the traditional Classic Candlelight Christmas.

Christmas Day — Monday, December 25 — is the wonderful day that we celebrate the first coming of Jesus, not with clamourous excitement but with deep joy. We gather at 9:00 a.m. for the Sacred Table service.

Advent and Christmas 2017
Special Services and Events

Events are at St. John’s York Mills Church unless noted otherwise.

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Where Events are Happening

St. John’s is welcoming a new youth ministry leader who will be taking charge of the senior youth group (Grades 9 to 12). (read more…)

The shape of Sundays at St. John’s (read more…)

Remembrance Day service at the Yonge Corporate Centre starting at 10:30 a.m. (read more…)

Friday, November 6 is the last day for submitting news items, photos, and articles for publication in the winter issue of The Link. Think Christmas! (read more…)

Dinner. Discussion. Deeper Insight.

A central teaching of Christian doctrines is that three days after he died, Jesus was brought back to life. In other words, he was resurrected. (read more…)

Music is a big part of life at St. John’s. Our handbell and handchime groups are now underway for the fall with over thirty participants. (read more…)

Once there was a blind beggar at the side of the road who heard that Jesus was entering his world. Imagine Jesus entering your life. (read more…)

A day of learning. A day about learning.

Registration is now open for Conference 2015, the annual conference of the Centre for Excellence in Christian Education (CECE). Throughout the year, the CECE offers resources to lay and clerical people who are involved in delivering, improving, and promoting Christian education for all ages. The CECE also strives to be a centre for community, with the highlight of the year being the annual conference.

The conference takes place at St. John’s York Mills church and runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The day includes a keynote talk in the morning, sessions and workshops throughout the day, and opportunities to meet and talk with other attendees. Lunch is provided and child care is available. (read more…)

A place for the very young up to three years old and their parents. It’s a nice bright space next to the Shepard room. In the new nursery room you’ll find space, and lots of toys and activities. The room is unsupervised, so we ask that parents stay with their children.

If you prefer, the room at the back of the sanctuary is also open for parents and children. This option is handy if you have children with you in the service and you wish to step out for a few minutes.

The wit and wisdom of Terry Fallis

Each year, the St. John’smen social group hosts the highly regarded Men’s Dinner. The event is open to all male parishioners of St. John’s, and we encourage each attendee to bring his father or son. The agenda for the evening includes a social mixer, a full-course meal, presentation of “St. John’sman of the Year” award, and then a talk by a notable speaker.

This year we are very honoured to have Terry Fallis join us. Terry Fallis has made a career working in both the Federal and Ontario governments, and later, for companies that offer consultation to governments. Now you might expect someone with that kind of work history to be rather humourless, but in Terry’s case, you would be very wrong. (read more…)

An afternoon retreat led by Rev. Anne at the Church of St Mary Magdalene.

Do visual images or works of art speak to your heart? Can you gain insight from them?
During this retreat time we’ll consider what holy seeing is, and learn techniques to enhance our ability to see clearly. We will seek to hear how God is speaking to us through various works of art.

For more information or to register, please contact Rev. Anne at acrosthwait@sjym.ca. The retreat is open to all, but pre-registration is requested. (read more…)

Thomas Merton: the soul of a modern spiritual giant.

Join us on Thursday, October 22, at 7 p.m. for an enlightening and entertaining evening
when we present the film Soul Searching: The Journey of Thomas Merton. Following the screening will be a discussion. (read more…)

Discerning, Deciding, and then Doing.

The community of faith that is St. John’s has always committed itself to working in the wider community (read more…)

For newcomers and for the curious.

Are you new to St. John’s? Wanting to re-connect? Or just curious to learn more? (read more…)

The nature of Christ and the resurrection.

A central teaching of Christian doctrines is that three days after he died, Jesus was brought back to life. (read more…)

The next step after The Good and Beautiful God. Evening group starts Wednesday September 30 at 7:30. Daytime group starts Thursday October 15 at 10:00. (read more…)

At 4 p.m. How might a community quench your thirst? What would be involved in creating a community that is life giving, and thirst quenching? (read more…)

The 2015 Vestry Report is now available on-line here, and on paper at the church office. Get ready for the Vestry Meeting next Sunday, September 27 (read more…)

Unfortunately, The Emmaus Formation Centre will not be offering the course “Introduction to Spiritual Formation” at St. John’s this fall.

(read more…)

A new year is starting in the Children’s Ministry at St. John’s. Registration is now open for programs for children of ages 3 to 12. (read more…)

Your voice in the year ahead

Our Annual Vestry Meeting takes place in the Auditorium on Sunday, September 27, 2015 following the 10:00 a.m. service.

The vestry meeting is where parishioners – the members of the church – hear about, and have their say on, the business of the church. At the meeting, we will receive reports about the past year’s operations, consider the budget, and make plans for the upcoming fiscal year. (read more…)

Making a Space for Ourselves

The new, permanent home of the Youth Ministry, following renovations.

St. John’s now has a permanent youth room, a place which will impact our younger generation and help them spiritually develop in a healthy way.

Thanks to the efforts of three youth leaders and ten members of the grades 6 – 8 class, who volunteered during the summer to paint, move furniture, and decorate the youth room so it will be ready for September. (read more…)

As the humanitarian crisis in Europe deepens, St. John’s hears the call to take action. On Thursday, the Anglican United Refugee Alliance will be at St. John’s (read more…)

The Lychgate Group gets underway again for the year on Thursday, September 10th at 7:30 p.m. in the Garnsworthy Room, with some pot luck appetizers and desserts. We will use the evening to plan activities for the 2015-16 season; also Michele McDonald will talk about the Sandy Bay school project in Jamaica.

The Lychgate Group holds its meetings on the 2nd Thursday of each month through to May, at 7:30 p.m. in the Garnsworthy Room. We get involved with projects throughout the year – in the past year we spent an evening with Kathy Knowles who has grown a children’s reading circle into a family of community libraries in Africa, and we took group trips to destinations such as the Aga Khan museum. (read more…)

As Anne embarks on some time away from St. John’s, she reflects on flowing: water flowing around us, God’s love flowing into us. (read more…)

Following the 10 a.m. service of Morning Praise, join us for lemonade and a question-and-answer time with Rev. Drew. Ask him anything about his sabbatical! (read more…)

Plans – Action – Results

St. John’s Jamaica project phase one is complete! Thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of parishioners at St. John’s, the volunteer team went to Jamaica to the work, and the Sandy Bay Public School is now already transformed. Here is our daily journal of the first phase of the project – bathroom overhaul and classroom essentials. (read more…)

The Fall 2015 edition of The Link newsletter is now available. You can receive it digitally in your e-mailbox, on paper at the Sunday services, or online right here. (read more…)

Christ – Who did He claim to be?

Jesus Christ is, of course, central to Christianity and so it is vital for us to learn about Jesus and understand who He was. Indeed, we have set the mission of St. John’s church to be: to know Christ and make Him known.

On Tuesday, September 8 at the Men’s Supper Club, we will seek a perspective on who Jesus was by looking at Jesus’s own claims – claims that He made through word (“I am the living bread that came down from heaven”), through deed (by His teaching and by His miracles), and through character (His conduct among the learned and among the poor). (read more…)

Stained glass windows have long told the stories of faith through images. As we dedicate a new chapel window, let us explore the symbolism in these windows. (read more…)

Exploration, Introspection, Discovery

Rev. Drew has returned from a sojourn that took him to diverse places and met many people with diverse backgrounds. He also took time for introspection, studying and pondering the ideas and theologies of great thinkers and of ordinary people.

Over the next few weeks, Drew will be sharing some of what he has learned with us – ideas ranging from higher topics in theology to practical aspects of running a healthy church.

Please join us this Sunday, August 16, when Drew delivers his first sermon since his return. It promises to be a thoughtful and engaging talk.

The Barnabas ministry at St. John’s continues during the summer months when many in the city were curtailing their program because of vacations. (read more…)

Food for Body and Soul:

Ever wonder why the symbol of Christianity is the cross on which Jesus was cruelly put to death? Why don’t we have a positive symbol (read more…)

Rev. Canon Jim and Dr. Jean O’Neil

On Sunday, August 23, at the 10 a.m. service, we will dedicate the new stained glass window in the chapel to honour Rev. Canon Jim and Dr. Jean O’Neil.

Jim O’Neil served as rector of St. John’s for twenty years, from 1969 until his retirement in 1989. Jim brought his gifts for preaching and for pastoral visiting, gifts that became the hallmark of his ministry. (read more…)

Celebrating Drew's return with cake and lemonade: Drew gets ready to cut the cake.

On Sunday, August 9, we welcomed Rev. Drew home from his sabbatical sojourn, and we thanked Rev. Anne for her leadership during Drew’s absence. (read more…)

Rev. Canon George Sumner, who preached at St. John’s on August 2, has served for many years as Principal of Wycliffe College. St. John’s has strong ties (read more…)

Rev. Tim (left) and a commuter at the afternoon lemonade stand.

The arrival of both the new lawn furniture and the new curate created an opportunity to get to know some of our neighbours. (read more…)

Reserve Thursday, November 5, 2015 for the St. John’smen’s 22nd Annual Men’s Dinner with guest speaker, the award-winning writer Terry Fallis.

Each year, the St. John’smen social group hosts the highly regarded Men’s Dinner. The event is open to all male parishioners of St. John’s, and we encourage each attendee to bring his father or son. The agenda for the evening includes a social mixer, a full-course meal, presentation of “St. John’sman of the Year” award, and then a talk by a notable speaker.

This year we are very honoured to have Terry Fallis as our speaker. Terry has written four novels that all went on to become national bestsellers, and is currently working on his fifth. (read more…)

A great day – and a great project

Mark and Damien are the masters of the grill

Thank you to everyone who came out for our barbecue in support of the Sandy Bay school renovation project.
Not only was it a great day to be enjoying food cooked outdoors, we have hit a milestone in raising funds to begin the work to bring the first phase to reality. (read more…)

Paul in Rome, Drew at home

On Sunday, August 9, we mark the conclusions of two long journeys.

Rev. Drew returns from the sabbatical that he embarked on in April. He has spent the past few months travelling in the United States and England, spending time worshiping in a variety of churches, engaging in study, attending an international church leadership conference, and in personal discovery at a men’s retreat and in quiet reflection. (read more…)

St. John's new sign on Yonge Street. Celebrating its arrival are Rev. Anne, project leader Brian, and Rev. Tim.

After more than five years of planning, designing, obtaining permission and untold effort, we finally have a sign at our Yonge Street entrance. (read more…)

It’s like Christmas in the Summer! In Children’s Ministry, we are making a video to tell the nativity story – a narrated re-enactment starring the children. (read more…)

August: Putting plans into action

An international outreach. As a Christian community, St. John’s has been involved with outreach projects both at home in the city and further afield – projects that are designed to make positive, meaningful differences in people’s lives. Jesus calls us to reach out to the children, and this spring, spurred by the enthusiasm of Michele McDonald and Damien Benedict, St. John’s has chosen to engage with a project with an international scope – to help rehabilitate Sandy Bay Primary School. (read more…)

Coming this September: a new ministry to help St. John’s connect with a greater number of people in the neighbourhood, and to help people connect. (read more…)

Aug 5: Summer study group starts.

What do you think is God’s real nature? Perhaps you believe that God is stern and wrathful, like a strict parent who stands ready to mete out punishment for any transgression no matter how minor. Or perhaps you believe in a warm and fuzzy God who loves you no matter what you do, so much that He not only overlooks all misdeeds but guarantees you eternal life.

Many Christians hold on to one of these two narratives. However it turns out both narratives are wrong, or more precisely, they are incorrect narratives that have grown from seeds of truth. (read more…)

Guest Sermon series at St. John’s

In the book of Acts, 27:13-26, the apostle Paul is on board a ship sailing from Crete to Rome when the ship is caught in a severe storm that lashes it for fourteen days. The sailors do everything they can to keep the ship afloat in the storm, but they soon start to lose hope of ever setting foot on land again. It is then that Paul has a vision of an angel reassuring him that, with courage by all, everyone will be saved. Paul’s vision is eventually fulfilled, but at this point the storm has not finished with this ship yet. (read more…)

The Nominating Committee is now inviting parishioners to put forward nominations for Parish Council – the voice of the congregation in the running of St. John’s. (read more…)

Ambition, Vocation and Mission.

On Sunday, July 19, Dr. Yau Man Siew takes to the lectern as our guest preacher. He will tell the story of his personal journey of faith. (read more…)

We’re looking for volunteers to help paint the walls of the new Youth Room. We’ll start July 19 after the 10 a.m. service, and Monday July 20 at 3 p.m. (read more…)

Food, Fellowship and Fundraising

Following the 10 a.m. Morning Praise service, enjoy a burger or hotdog on the patio, and help us raise funds for the Jamaica school rehabilitation project. We’re inviting parishioners to bring favourite side dishes to complete the meal. (read more…)

Each Piece is Essential to the Whole

For me it was often a rainy spell at the cottage when the jig saw puzzles came out …

My family had rituals around doing jig-saw puzzles. We had our order of how to sort, how to do the outline and who did the sky. Did your family? Do you remember that odd piece you’d wonder about? Where would it fit? And how it felt when the puzzle was complete, or not complete if the dog had eaten a piece!

In conversations several times this week that image of the odd puzzle piece has come up. Each one of us is known. Each dot on our lives, each line, each scrape, each joy, each sorrow is known by God. And each one of us is significant to complete the picture. We are all needed. The picture is incomplete if one is lost. (read more…)

Meet our new Assistant Curate, The Rev. Tim Taylor. We welcome him on Sunday, July 5, as he begins his new role with St. John’s. (read more…)

How to plant a church:

On Sunday, July 5, Rev Graham Singh will be our guest preacher at the 10 a.m. service. Rev. Graham is currently the downtown Pastor of Lakeside Church in Guelph. He was trained for ministry at Cambridge and at Holy Trinity Brompton (the home of Alpha Course) in London. He was invited by the church in Guelph to return home and help them with a new church plant.

Rev. Graham has experience, passion and vision to inspire the church to discern and do God’s work in the world. He will be joined by Ms Rachel Abraham, a staff member from Holy Trinity Brompton and daughter of our parishioners Tony and Barbara Abraham. (read more…)

We’re doing it again! After the 10 a.m. service on Sunday, June 28, get your car washed and help support St. John’s Jamaica school renovation project. (read more…)

Meeting the people where they are

Culture. Why does culture matter to Christianity? Is it not enough to build a church grounded on scripture? No, the culture of the community matters a lot. Indeed this will determine if the church thrives or withers. To put it another way, it does not work to stand on the hilltop and proclaim the word. One must go down to where the people are and deal with them on their terms. (read more…)

This Sunday, we welcome two clergy from the Anglican Witness conference: Rev Canon Rosemary Mbogo of Kenya and Bishop Moon Hing Ng of Malaysia. (read more…)

Our Morning Praise service, on the last Sunday of each month at 10 a.m., is built around songs and prayers, and around conversations on topics that matter in today’s world. (read more…)

On Sunday, June 14, during the 10 a.m. service, we honour the grade-5 and grade-8 graduates of Children’s Ministry, and thank the parent volunteers. (read more…)

The Men’s Supper Club is meeting for the last time before summer break with a barbecue on the patio, starting at 6:30 p.m. (read more…)

Participants in last year's Noah's Ark Summer Camp hosted at St. Stephen's Downsview Youth Covenant

This July to early August, St. Stephen’s Downsview Youth Covenant (DYC) will once again be running Noah’s Ark Summer Camp. (read more…)

With changing needs, changing plans, and changing resources, phase 3 is being postponed. (read more…)

I’m taking a deep breath. Might you slow down with me and take a deep breath too? Right now I can hear some people chatting down the hall, some birds chirping, the drone of the house being constructed down the street and insistent hum of our city. There is so much that happens all around us every day, every moment of every day. Sometimes choices can overwhelm us, paralyze or push us to take hurried action. What’s happening around you right now? (read more…)

Gathering on the Longest Day of the Year (read more…)

On Sunday, June 7, the Rockin’ Ringers join us at the 10 a.m. Family Worship service with their musical offerings on handbells.

The Rockin’ Ringers have just returned from Lift Lock and Ring festival in Peterborough, where they gathered with English handbell ringers from all over Ontario for a weekend of music and fun. This Sunday, June 7, they will be in the sanctuary to perform before and during the service.

A relaxed program for Summer Sundays

The Children’s Ministry at St. John’s continues through the summer. Children in grades 1 to 8 are invited to join us for outdoor activities during the 10 a.m. family service. (read more…)

The Summer 2015 edition of The Link newsletter is now available. You can receive it digitally in your e-mailbox, on paper at the Sunday services, or online right here. (read more…)

Please pre-register by May 17 to attend Voices of Silence, which will take place on Saturday, May 23. This is a day hosted by Contemplative Fire (read more…)

A Guide for Making it Work

Guest preacher Rev. Dr. Paul Bramer spoke about Creative Conflict at St. John’s on Sunday, May 10, 2015. You can view the full talk here, or keep reading for a summary. (read more…)

We are pleased to report that the Barnabas Ministry is thriving, and growing, thanks to the support of the congregation and the dedication of our volunteers. (read more…)

“Let the little children …”

“Let the little children come unto me,
and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of God
belongs to such as these.”
(Mark 10:14, NIV) (read more…)

Followed by a Potluck Lunch (read more…)

May 31: Monthly Worship Gathering

Are you ready for the ride of your life?

Whether you are struggling in life or in a place of rest, God’s Spirit arrives and breathes new life into us! (read more…)

St. John’s annual Silent Film Series has finished for another year, showing classic movies and raising funds for FaithWorks outreach. (read more…)

Real People. Real Faith. Real World.

Conflict – most of us try to avoid it but that’s hardly possible. From May 3 to 17, we look at conflict in the early church and conflict in our own lives. (read more…)

A Day for Contemplatives to Gather (read more…)

The Debate: The Bible and Homosexuality.

Gentlemen, please join us at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12th for our monthly meeting of the Men’s Supper Club. (read more…)

The PWRDF is now accepting donations to support relief efforts for victims of the earthquake in Nepal. (read more…)

Guest Sermon: Constructive Conflict

Over the next three Sundays – May 3, 10, and 17 – we are looking at Acts chapter 15, in which the church experiences conflicts both theological and personal. On May 10, we welcome Rev. Dr. Paul Bramer to St. John’s. Paul Bramer will be speaking on the personal conflicts described in Acts 15:36-41 – how the conflict arose, how the conflict was handled, and how it influenced the formation of the early church.

Dr. Paul Bramer has been involved in a variety of ministries and has taught at all levels of education from elementary through to graduate, and at the doctoral level. He has had a life-long commitment to the development of Christian leaders.

Students everywhere look forward to Prom Night at their high schools. You can help students to look their best with a clothing donation to New Circles by April 17. (read more…)

MUSICFEST 2015 is less than one month away, and we would love to have you join us. Tickets are now on sale for $15 per adult and $5 per child. (read more…)

Following the 10 a.m. Morning Praise service this Sunday, we will have a potluck lunch in the Garnsthworthy room. Everyone is invited (read more…)

An evening to encounter the love of God

On Saturday, May 9th, starting at 5:30 p.m., young adults are invited to St. John’s York Mills church to be a part of Second Chance. It’s your chance to come as you are and join with others in an opportunity to experience the love of God. (read more…)

With a Potluck Lunch after.

Our Morning Praise service, which happens on the last Sunday of each month at 10 a.m., is built around songs and prayers, and around conversations on topics that matter in today’s world. It’s a service that both uplifts and enlightens. (read more…)

Hurry! April 26 is the last Sunday to place your order for the Renewal 2014 Commemorative Book. Visit the table in the foyer after the 10 a.m. service to order. (read more…)

Gathering on Sunday, April 26 at 4 p.m. at St. Leonard’s Anglican Church. You are invited to be part of our reflective worship and communion (read more…)

The Coffee Hour, following the 10 a.m. service, is a wonderful time for fellowship and friendship, thanks to our volunteers. (read more…)

An evening for the body and the soul:
Male Spirituality by Fr Richard Rohr.
Dinner at 6:30, video presentation at 7:30,
followed by a lively discussion. (read more…)

On screen: Buster Keaton in The Navigator.

Please join us on Saturday evening, April 18, at 7:30 for our next (and final) night of the St. John’s 2015 Silent Film Series. (read more…)

The Bells, the Band, the Choir, and You!

We would love you to join us for MUSICFEST 2015. It’s all about COLOURS in the lyrics, titles or composers. What a Wonderful World it is with My Favourite Things, Sing a Rainbow, The Pink Panther and lots of Name That Tune teasers to challenge you. (read more…)

The Many Storeys and Last Days of Thomas Merton

Join us as Contemplative Fire presents the new film The Many Storeys and Last Days of Thomas Merton. The doors at St. John’s York Mills open at 7 p.m.; the film starts at 7:30. A discussion will follow. (read more…)

Celebrate as a Community.

Easter Sunday is a day of great happiness as Christians rejoice in Jesus’s resurrection to life. (read more…)

Children are invited to join the Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday morning, during the 10 a.m service, to search for Easter treasure. (read more…)

Gathering on Sunday, March 29 at 4 p.m. at St. Leonard’s Anglican Church. You are invited to be part of our reflective worship and communion (read more…)

On Saturday, March 28, at 5 p.m. at St. John’s York Mills, soprano Lauren Bryant-Monk is giving an advance performance of her Master’s recital. (read more…)

Apr 30: Last Day to Order

A church is not the building, but the community of faith that inhabits it. The Commemorative Book is a snapshot of the community of St. John’s at a historic milestone. (read more…)

A story of children’s libraries in Africa.

On March 12, the Lychgate Group welcomes Kathy Knowles, Director of the Osu Children’s Library Fund. (read more…)

Gentlemen, if you hunger for intellectual stimulation and spiritual growth, along with some good food and wine, the Men’s Supper Club is the place for you. (read more…)

For a little retreat from busy lives…

Every Wednesday morning in Lent, at 7:30, we offer a service of Holy Communion in the Chapel. From February 25 to April 1, why not get up early on Wednesdays and join us for quiet, reflective spoken-word services? It’s a nice spiritual practice during the time of Lent. (read more…)

Go further in your spiritual journey.

Two new sessions to study The Good and Beautiful God are starting in the week of March 2. (read more…)

March 8 at 5 p.m.: a musical treat awaits you. The lead singers of the Choir of St. John’s will perform pieces from madrigals to modern songs. (read more…)

This Sunday, March 8, 2015, following the 10 a.m. service, we will hold a short vestry meeting to consider an application to the Diocesan Ministry (read more…)

The Spring, 2015 edition of The Link newsletter is now available. You can receive it digitally in your e-mailbox, on paper at the Sunday services, or online right here. (read more…)

Saturday, March 7, 9:30 to 2:30

Do you ever feel your life is too busy?
Curious about an alternative to a busy life?
Want to learn more about Contemplative Fire?

You’re invited to take part in “Rhythms” (read more…)

St. John’s York Mills will join other churches for the World Day of Prayer. This year we will gather at St. Gabriel’s Church, 670 Sheppard Ave. E. at 1:30 p.m. (read more…)

When and where are things happening at St. John’s? Find out by checking the revamped Calendar of Events under the Parish Life menu. (read more…)

Please note that Confirmation classes are now taking place every Monday from 5 to 6 p.m. Also note that for February 9 only, the class will run from 5 to 7 p.m. (read more…)

Feb 21 at St. John’s: Sharing the Gospel Online.

Do you wish that your parish could be doing more on social media? (read more…)

Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday are our traditional entry points into Lent. Plan on joining us this year for both days, for they are a matched pair – not to do one without the other! (read more…)

Harold Lloyd on the big screen will kick off the 12^th annual Silent Film Series at St. John’s. On Saturday, February 21, at 7:30 p.m., Harold Lloyd stars in the comedy “For Heaven’s Sake”. (read more…)

New Circles now in their new home

New Circles has now moved into their new quarters at 161 Bartley Drive (south of Eglinton Avenue and West of Victoria Park Avenue) and is now ready to receive donations of clothes, shoes and accessories. (read more…)

An evening to encounter the love of God

On Saturday, February 28, St. John’s York Mills will team up with the Evangel Temple to host Second Chance, a free event for young adults to come as they are and encounter the love of God. (read more…)

Taking stock, making plans: Feb 7.

(read more…)

We are resuming our monthly gatherings on the last Sunday of each month. This month’s theme:

“Shaking but not Shaken”

(read more…)

The Foundations of Faith

St. John’s York Mills Anglican church is offering confirmation classes this winter. Classes will be held at the church every Monday from January 26 to March 30 after school. (read more…)

On Sunday, January 25, St. George’s United Church is hosting an important examination of the changes to chaplaincy in our criminal justice system. (read more…)

Potluck lunch with a soup theme

Following the 10 a.m. service, stay and join us for a potluck lunch in the foyer and the Garnsworthy room. We will be featuring soup to warm you up on a cold winter day. (read more…)

Have you ever wondered where the beautiful flowers come from, that you see at St. John’s on Sundays? (read more…)

On screen – The Gospel of John.

Join us after the 10 a.m. service on Sunday, January 28, for a free screening of the movie The Gospel of John. (read more…)

An easygoing start to the week (read more…)

If your children participate in our Children’s Ministry programs, please join us after the 10 a.m. service for half an hour for some important information sharing.

On Sunday, January 4th, 2015, Bishop Patrick Yu will be visiting St. John’s, and will preach at the 10 a.m. service. (read more…)

Options for families with children
(read more…)

For newcomers and for the curious.

What attracts people to St. John’s York Mills?
What brings them back week after week?

What do people want to know about our church?
What are they seeking in our community of faith? (read more…)

From January 1 to 3, Catch the Fire Toronto is hosting the Heavy Rain Young Adult Conference, and St. John’s will be there. (read more…)

The Importance of Fatherhood

Gentlemen, if you hunger for intellectual stimulation and spiritual growth, along with some good food and wine, the Men’s Supper Club is the place for you. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month. Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, January 13, 2015, at 6:30 p.m. (read more…)

Jan 8 at 7:30 pm: Bring your questions (read more…)

We’re excited to tell you that this legacy book, a time capsule of our congregation in 2014 and a history of the renovation of 2014, is almost ready. (read more…)

A Contemplative Fire Christmas service

Seasonal emotions can run deep. On Saturday December 20, from 4 to 6, our Healing and Light service will offer an opportunity to bring healing into our lives. (read more…)

The Winter 2014-15 edition of St. John’s newsletter, The Link, is now available digitally in your e-mailbox, on paper at the Sunday services, and online right here. (read more…)

During the week, please use the Lychgate (churchyard) entrance from Old Yonge St. to come and go. On Sunday, please arrive by Don Ridge Drive (read more…)

Songs and prayers, conversation and fellowship (read more…)

An evening of Life, God, and other Small Topics.

Gentlemen, if you hunger for intellectual stimulation and spiritual growth, along with some good food and wine, the Men’s Supper Club is the place for you. (read more…)

Baptisms: Sunday, November 16.

“Let the little children come unto me,
and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of God
belongs to such as these.”
(Mark 10:14) (read more…)

This fall, the Handbell and Chime Choirs are performing at St. John’s and at other venues in and around Toronto. Click here to see when and where (read more…)

We’re getting ready to put together the Renovation Memorial Book. Submissions for the parishioners’ pages are due Friday, November 15. (read more…)

Boxes were distributed in September. Please fill and return the boxes to St. John’s no later than Sunday November 16. (read more…)

An evening of music, praise, and inspiration

On November 22nd St. John’s York Mills Anglican Church will host its first free event for young adults over 17 to come as they are and encounter the love of God. (read more…)

An opportunity to develop a contemplative network in Toronto:

Saturday November 15, 2014
St John’s York Mills Anglican Church (read more…)

Services of Remembrance: Nov 9 and 11

Please join us at St. John’s York Mills on Sunday, November 9 for reverential and thoughtful worship services at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. (read more…)

Canadian Anglicans are helping to build a church on the Island of Roatan in Honduras. Learn more at an Info Workshop the Outreach Committee is hosting (read more…)

Remember to “fall back” for Sunday morning! Or, don’t change your clocks, and arrive early and get the best seats in the house for the Archbishop’s visit.

We meet November 11 at 6:30 to discuss Life, God, and other Small Topics. (read more…)

St. John’s youth group is collecting empty jars for a project in November. We will be collecting jars until November 1st. (read more…)

For the leaders of Children’s Ministries: the fourth annual Children’s Ministries conference. (read more…)

Fellowship,
a hearty meal,
an intriguing talk:

The annual Men’s Dinner
at St. John’s York Mills

Thursday, November 6, 2014
6:30 – Reception – Garnsworthy Room
7:30 – Dinner – Auditorium (read more…)

If you have ever sung in the choir, you are invited to be a part of the grand re-opening service on November 2. The rehearsal is on Thursday, October 30. (read more…)

Finishing touches, and then the Big Reveal (read more…)

Join us as we celebrate the completion of the renovation project and rededicate the sanctuary.

(read more…)

The Bishop’s Committee on Prayer invites you to the biannual Diocesan Prayer Conference on Oct. 25 at St. John, York Mills. (read more…)

Our Annual Vestry Meeting takes place in the new sanctuary on Sunday, October 19, 2014 following the 10:00 a.m. service. (read more…)

Our major renovation project is in its last days. We will have our first service in the rejuvenated sanctuary on October 19. The official dedication will be November 2. (read more…)

How do we experience Christ as we juggle multiple and sometimes conflicting demands in our modern lives? Come and join us for an evening to explore. (read more…)

New Circles Community Services seeks new and gently-used costumes to help families celebrate Halloween for the first time in Canada. (read more…)

Creating a community of Christ at the edge (read more…)

Reason and Faith – can they be reconciled?

(read more…)

The Fall edition of St. John’s newsletter, The Link, is now available digitally in your e-mailbox, on paper at the Sunday services, and online right here. (read more…)

Beginning a new year (read more…)

More options for spiritual growth (read more…)

The Nominating Committee invites members of the congregation to forward names of people they would recommend for positions within St. John’s Parish. (read more…)

St. John’s offers financial assistance to those studying at any of the Anglican Church of Canada’s three accredited seminaries. Apply now for the 2014 bursary. (read more…)

The finish line is in sight! (read more…)

All young people are invited to the Children’s Chapel on Sept. 14 at 10 a.m. to hear two people from St. John’s who will talk about their recent mission trips. (read more…)

Taking care of the extras (read more…)

Parishioners are encouraged to attend a Special Vestry Meeting on Sunday, August 24, 2014 after the 10 a.m. service, to gauge support for two major proposals. (read more…)

August 8-10 at Brock University: A conference and retreat exploring Christian sources of comfort in challenging times. Contemplative Fire will be there. (read more…)

For July, we will not be posting the Sunday sermons to the SJYM TV channel on YouTube. SJYM TV will resume in August.  (read more…)

When we study the Bible we can lose sight of the Old Testament. In fact the Old Testament texts are fundamental, and so it is time to take a fresh look. (read more…)

A welcome to the new volunteer librarians, and a request to readers who use the library. (read more…)

Practical advice for a challenging task (read more…)

This summer, the St. Stephen’s Downsview Youth Covenant will be running Noah’s Ark Summer Camp, and St. John’s will be helping. (read more…)

Read a good book and find a new perspective (read more…)

Join us when we gather on Saturday June 21, the longest day of the year, for a picnic and a creative communion service. (read more…)

We are celebrating! Everyone who volunteered in the Children’s Ministry is invited to a celebration on Sunday, June 22, following the 10 a.m. service. (read more…)

Since last fall, St. John’s Youth Group has been revitalized and has had a lively year of meetings, of activities, and of accomplishments. (read more…)

St. George on Yonge St. Anglican Church will host a prayer breakfast on Saturday, June 14, from 9 a.m. to noon, with a talk on the theme of Discernment. (read more…)

Thanks to everyone who helped make MusicFest happen, and a special thanks to everyone who attended this major fundraising event. (read more…)

The next “Orientations” day – for newcomers to St. John’s, for returnees, and for those just curious – will be on Saturday May 31 from 9:30 to noon. (read more…)

All worship services are now in the auditorium. Here is what you need to know about our temporary home during the building renovations. (read more…)

If you’re a member of one of St. John’s many Compass Groups, you’re invited to the annual Compass Dinner to share in food and fellowship. (read more…)

The Lychgate Group is visiting the ROM to tour the exhibition “China’s Forbidden City”, and you’re invited. (read more…)

Each year, our  handbell ringers, chimers, singers and instrumentalists prepare for this concert featuring handbells, with Choir, Band, organ, piano, handchimes and percussion. (read more…)

Stillness – Spaciousness – Storytelling – Sacrament.

Join us on Sunday, April 27, at 4 p.m. at our monthly contemplative worship gathering. (read more…)

In this final week of Lent we prepare for the most significant days of the Christian year. (read more…)

The Prom Boutique at New Circles Community Services is asking for donations of prom clothing and items, no later than April 24. (read more…)

Where the leaves of the trefoil overlap –
a space of mystery.  Prayer, action, study are
all aspects of a Contemplative Fire life. (read more…)

On April 8 at 6:30 p.m., join us for a dinner and a discussion of what C.S. Lewis has to say in his book Mere Christianity. (read more…)

An Opportunity for Everyone to Participate
in Remembering our History
and in Building for the Future. (read more…)

During Lent, until April 16, Holy Eucharist services take place every Wednesday morning at 7:30 a.m. (read more…)

Come and enjoy a classic silent movie on St. John’s “big screen” accompanied by music performed live on the organ. It all starts at 7:30 p.m. (read more…)

Living from the Centre is an exploration of contemporary prayer practices. The final session will be on Tuesday, March 11. (read more…)

On March 9, The Rev. Canon Dr. George Sumner of Wycliffe College comes to our pulpit to speak on Jesus in the wilderness, on temptations, and on choices. (read more…)

Join us, as we join with Christians around the world for a shared day of worship, this year sharing in a worship celebration prepared by WDP Egypt.  (read more…)

On Ash Wednesday, March 5, we are having a morning service at 7:30 a.m. and an evening service at 7:30 p.m. On the following Wednesday mornings in Lent,  (read more…)

We’ve moved! During the renovations the church office is located on the other side of the building, on the top floor at the west end in the Ketchum Room. (read more…)

On Shrove Tuesday, March 4th, a feast awaits you when the Men’s Supper Club and the Youth Ministry host Pancake Supper at St. John’s York Mills. (read more…)

Join us from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, February 23 at St. Leonard’s Anglican Church to explore “Everything Belongs.” Woven with stillness and spaciousness, (read more…)

Contemplative Fire is offering four weeks of an introduction to contemplative prayer practices. Each week you’ll learn an different prayer form (read more…)

St. John’s Youth are cooking for you! (read more…)

We are delighted to inform you that Karen & Bill Barnett have been selected by Archbishop Colin Johnson to be Members of the Order of the Diocese of Toronto. (read more…)

Are you ‘new’ to St John’s? Save this date:  Saturday, January 18 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. You are invited to join Drew+ and Anne+ for an Orientation Morning. (read more…)

The latest issue of our newsletter is now available for download. All our Advent and Christmas events and celebrations are included. (read more…)

December 29 Services Cancelled – Power still not restored (read more…)

Rescheduled due to the Ice Storm (read more…)

Due to the ice storm and for safety reasons, we have reluctantly decided to cancel this morning’s 10 a.m. Service. We do look forward to seeing you Christmas Eve at 5 p.m. or 10 p.m, or Christmas Day at 10 a.m.

We had a great time singing and ringing in Christmas and we raised $2000 for Anglican Missions and World Vision.  (read more…)

This tragedy is fading from the news, but assistance to help those affected remains great.  Until Dec. 31 all donations received by PWRDF will be matched by the Canadian government.  (read more…)