Who We Are   |   Our Ministers   |   Membership At Central United  

Who we are

We are a busy church with many activities both on Sundays and throughout the week for people of all ages. Central United Church was founded in 1840 as a Methodist congregation. The sanctuary, an original and historic Markham structure, dates back to 1879. Extensive renovations were undertaken in 1986 with a remodelling of the sanctuary and the addition of the present administration area. Our inviting facility blends the beauty of our history with the function of current day. The church’s beautiful stained glass windows balance off our modern day sanctuary technology to provide an inviting and enjoyable worship experience for all generations.

Our mission

Central United Church is the church for you because ....

• We have an open heart and an open door.
• We recognize the spiritual longing felt in today's society and seek to share the peaceful presence of Jesus Christ and a faith that is practical and supportive with challenges faced by individuals and families in their daily lives.
• In these times of stress and change, we seek to offer worship which is uplifting, and Biblical study which is faith building.
• We recognize the need to care about the world in which we live and we provide opportunities to share the love of Jesus Christ in word and deed.
• We recognize that participation in a church is a new or unfamiliar experience for many people and we welcome the opportunity to be supportive to them.

Our Congregation: Respect for Diversity

As part of the United Church of Canada, we value diversity. We welcome everyone and all that makes them unique.We view the religious practice of all people of goodwill with respect and gratitude. We believe the Spirit of God is at work in many different faith communities.

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Our Ministers

Rev. Dr. James R. Clubine Reverend James Clubine, the Minister of Worship and Pastoral Care, joined the ministry team at Central United Church in 2003.   His pastoral work is guided by his mission; ‘to help people fall in love with God who is in love with them’.  In addition to over 20 years of pastoral experience, James also established a practice in leadership development consulting, specializing in coaching and life leadership workshops. He holds masters degrees in Divinity, Theology and Religious Education and as well as a doctorate in Theology.

Rev. Karl Burden Rev. Karl Burden entered the ministry in 1963, serving 3 pastorates:  Wawota, Sask; St. Paul’s U.C. in Oakville & Wilmar Heights U.C. in Scarborough.  Subsequently, he taught high risk students in a Primary Behaviour Class in North York, then later at the High School level he taught grade 9 special education classes in Markham.  In 1979, he became the Executive Director of Alcohol & Drug Concerns, Inc. (other wise known as ‘Concerns, Canada’).  Following a short period of early retirement, Karl has returned to active work, servicing as one of the ministry team here at Central United Church in Unionville.  He is married with 2 children and 5 grandchildren.

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Membership with Central

All are welcome at Central United Church.

How to become a Member:

• Join us for a Sunday service at 9:30 or 11:15 a.m from September though May's long weekend. During the summer months we worship together at one 10 am service.  Come experience the community and flow of our faith.
• If you like what you've experienced, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 905-474-0183 to let us know you are considering joining Central’s congregation.
• You will be invited to attend Membership Orientation with Rev. Clubine during which you will be have a chance to explore Central and all it has to offer in a casual, friendly atmosphere of discussion and exploration. 
• A few days later, Jim will contact you to learn your decision concerning membership.
• Once you have made your decision to become a member, and you let Central know, you will be asked to join us during the next membership/baptism service at either the 9:30 or 11:00 am service, where you will be formally welcomed into the Congregation at that time.

Once you have become a member, we would welcome your participation in our community. There are many opportunities, from Christian Education to church council, for you to join in. Your involvement in activities that keep our church active and healthy. 

A key component of membership also includes stewardship of our personal resources. Regular offerings can be facilitated by setting up a PAR account, or you can contact Sally for personal offering envelopes.

Membership at Central can also be marked through Baptism at one of three services held throughout the year. Those interested being baptised, or having their child/children baptised, are encouraged to contact our Minister, Jim Clubine or church Administrator, Sally Sandiford for more information.