Committees

We don’t just go to church – we are the church!

Church Council

Church Council

Church Council is comprised of the Committee Chairs. Council meets monthly to discuss issues concerning the ministry, activities and direction of Westminster United Church. Church members or adherents may make a submission to Council via the Council Secretary. All church members and adherents may speak at the council meetings provided they are recognized by the Chair.

Chair of Council
Ava Tomlinson

Council Secretary
Carrie Hunter-Cruz

Treasurer
Paul Pierson


Christian Education

Christian Education

Christian Education is about life-long learning. This committee provides activities, events, and programs for all ages. We encourage and empower children, adults, and families to explore and grow in their faith. The Christian Education Committee offers opportunities for social gatherings and outreach to our local church family and to the wider community.


Climate Disruption Mitigation

Climate Disruption Mitigation

We believe God calls us to care for Creation.
The CDMC addresses environmental and climate issues by raising awareness and advocating for change. They invite volunteers to support advocacy, engage the congregation, collaborate with other local faith communities, and help implement Westminster’s Climate Disruption Mitigation Plan.


Communications

Communications

The Communication Committee plays a key role in facilitating, promoting, and improving communication within the congregation. This includes compiling the monthly newsletter, updating the e-sign, bulletin boards, and kiosk in the narthex to keep everyone informed. Additionally, the committee manages subscriptions to The United Church magazine, Broadview, ensuring the congregation has access to relevant news and resources.

Chair of Communications
Bev Crumb


Ministry & Personnel

Ministry & Personnel

The Ministry & Personnel (M&P) Committee meets on a monthly basis.  This is a lively group dedicated to the well being of our Staff Team. Committee members are updated on the work of the staff team and discuss plans to address future needs. They work with each staff member to establish annual goals and conduct year-end reviews.  Employment matters are, by their nature, confidential; accordingly, M&P updates Council and the Congregation on such matters as appropriate. 

Chair of Ministry & Personnel
Peter Spratt & Lorraine Joynt


Outreach

Outreach

Westminster’s Outreach Committee supports the wider community through compassionate service and local partnerships, addressing social and economic challenges. Some outreach initiatives include The Pantry Food Bank, Durham Outlook, Prayer Shawl Ministry, Christmas Hampers, The Backpack Project, Bridge to a New Home (BTANH), and more.

Chair of Outreach
Joanne MacPherson


Parish Mosaic

Parish Mosaic

The Parish Mosaic Committee supports us in our commitment to being an Affirming community of faith. They work to ensure that all people—regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or background—feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated here. The Parish Mosaic Committee helps us grow as a church that reflects God’s love for all.


Property

Property

The Property Committee meets regularly to ensure the church building is safe, secure, and well-maintained. Working with the custodian and volunteers, they manage capital projects, contract essential services, and oversee routine maintenance. Volunteers support with cleaning, painting, gardening, event setup, and light repairs, helping keep the church welcoming and functional.

Chair of Property
Bob Neil


Sanctuary

Sanctuary

The Sanctuary Committee enhances the worship environment by decorating the narthex and sanctuary to reflect each liturgical season. Through seasonal flowers, banners, and symbols, they create a warm, meaningful setting—especially during Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter.

Chair of Sanctuary
Joanna Coulter


Stewardship / Finance

Stewardship / Finance

Stewardship is Discipleship
The Stewardship Committee promotes the sharing of time, talents, and treasures while overseeing Westminster’s finances. Meeting monthly, the team handles budgeting, financial reviews, reporting, and congregational education. Key events include the Fall Campaign with Stew for Stewardship Sunday, the Christmas Bazaar, and a Spring Dinner & Theatre Night.

Chair of Stewardship / Finance
Margaret Suepaul


Tech Team

Tech Team

Volunteer tech teams play a vital behind-the-scenes role in worship, managing sound, lighting, and presentation technology to enhance both in-person and online experiences. Working in pairs, they operate equipment and provide audio/video support, with hands-on training available for all, regardless of prior experience.


Trustees

Trustees

The Board of Trustees holds the property for the use and benefit of the congregation for such religious, charitable, educational, congregational or social purposes as the congregation may direct, for the support and maintenance of public worship and the propagation of Christian knowledge, according to the policies of the United Church.

Chair of Trustees
Ed Rosdobutko


United Church Women

United Church Women

The UCW, open to all women of the congregation, is dedicated to worship, education, service, and fellowship. Members gather for spiritual growth, guest speakers, and shared activities, including supporting church events and welcoming new members in partnership with other volunteer groups.


Wellness

Wellness

The Wellness Committee promotes holistic well-being—body, mind, and spirit—through health education, safety and accessibility efforts, and emotional support, such as Easter flower outreach. They also host community presentations, offer gentle yoga, and coordinate the Friendly Visitors team to stay connected with homebound or recovering members.

Co-Chairs of Wellness
Carol O’Neil & Crystal Smith


Worship

Worship

The Worship Committee ensures a meaningful worship experience by coordinating key elements such as greeting (in-person and online), sanctuary decoration (with the Sanctuary Committee), and the organization of sacraments like Communion and Baptism. They also arrange ushers, scripture readers, and fellowship refreshments, helping create a welcoming atmosphere at Westminster.

Chair of Worship
Heather Von Zuben


Curious to know more?

Please feel welcome to reach out for more info or to find out how to share your skills and talents on a committee!