Picture this a round church on Bloor Street West. That’s Bloordale United Church. It’s more than just a building. It’s a community hub a testament to faith and change.
Bloordale United Church opened its doors in 1958. It served a growing suburban area. The original structure was small and temporary. Rapid growth led to a unique round sanctuary. A domed skylight and twelve large wooden arches formed its distinctive shape. A Christian Education building was added later to accommodate the thriving Sunday School.
For over six decades Bloordale United flourished. It hosted various groups. A seniors group met there. So did AA and Al-Anon groups. A childcare centre thrived within its walls. Smaller congregations found a home. Scout and Guide groups held meetings. Children attended summer camps. Even an Islamic cooking school and a Polish language school found a place within this welcoming space. Pickup basketball games filled the evenings.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges. Worship services went online. Church council meetings moved to Zoom. A four-person Executive Committee Rev Brian McIntosh Pat Conway-Willis Julia Stavreff and Paul Rose guided the church through this period. They ensured continuity and connection.
As the pandemic eased in-person worship resumed. But the congregation was aging. Numbers dwindled. Rev McIntosh’s retirement approached. The congregation made a difficult decision. They chose amalgamation with Islington United Church. This union was approved in June 2024. It officially took effect on July 1 2024.
The amalgamated church is now Islington United Church. Bloordale’s building remains active. It’s now called the Bloordale Campus of Islington United Church. The various community groups continue to use the space. Bloordale’s administrative office remains in the sanctuary building. The history of Bloordale United Church is a story of growth adaptation and community spirit. A story etched into the very walls of this round church on Bloor.