Our History

For over 180 years, Central United Church in Unionville has been a cornerstone of both Markham and York Region’s history. Throughout this time, our congregation has worshiped, shared the Gospel, nurtured spiritual growth, served the community, and cared for one another.

1840
  • Itinerant preachers, known as circuit riders, served Christian families by riding horseback to scattered groups in rural areas of Upper Canada.
  • Several Christian families would gather at one house for Bible lessons, hymn singing, and worship led by the itinerant preacher. Christian families invited others to join them.
  • By 1840, the Primitive Methodist and Wesleyan Methodist churches had active circuits in the Markham area. 
  • Names of members who are now prominent in Markham history included Stiver, Eckardt and Braithwaite.
1879
  • Unionville became the head of the circuit church for the Markham area.
  • Josiah Hall constructs a fine new red brick edifice with white brick trim. The limestone was shipped across Lake Ontario from Kingston and hauled by horse-drawn wagon from Lake Ontario.
  • This new church building allowed Bible lessons and worship services to be held in a dedicated building, supporting the growth of new families in the congregation.
  • The towering steeple includes a bell that has been calling the faithful to worship ever since it was built
  • The congregation was known as the Unionville Primitive Methodist Church
1925
  • The union of the national denominations of the Congregational, Methodist and Presbyterian churches forms the United Church of Canada.
  • Central United Church was formed from the roots of the local Primitive Methodists, Wesleyan Methodists, and Presbyterians.
  • For a time, the congregation was known as Unionville United Church, but the name was soon changed to Central United Church.
1952
  • The church undergoes significant renovations to serve the needs of the congregation.
  • Changes included a Casavant Pipe Organ, a hand-crafted communion table, and refurbished pews to create a centre aisle. The organ and the cross on the communion table were dedicated to the memory of those lost in the two World Wars.
1985
  • To meet the worship and study needs of a growing congregation, significant renovations are completed to expand the sanctuary and add a Narthex (lobby) and rooms for Christian education, Children’s Sunday School, and other mid-week activities. 
  • The renovations carefully maintained the integrity of the original architecture
Current
  • In 2023, the church established a renewed mission, vision, and statement of values focused on becoming a thriving and welcoming community church that encourages all people to accept and grow in the Christian faith.
  • After 22 years of faithful service as the Senior Minister, Rev. Dr. Jim Clubine retired in September 2024.
  • The Rev. Lori Diaz, formerly of Timothy Eaton Memorial Church in Toronto, is now Central’s Minister of Worship, Pastoral Care and Spiritual Development.
Sources
  • “Markham 1793-1900”. Isabel Champion, Editor. Markham District Historical Museum. Second edition, 1989
  • “Central United Church 1879-1979” Booklet published in 1979 by the congregation.