Metropolitan United Church

The Local Congregation, comprising all members and adherents, has the ultimate authority in all major faith and financial issues. All Official Board members, Stewards committee members, and members of the Board of Trustees are elected by the congregation at the Annual Meeting, or at special Congregational Meetings held at the call of the Official Board Chair.

The Official Board acts on behalf of the congregation. It is responsible for the sound operation of the programs and property, and the general well being of the congregation.

The Committee of Stewards is responsible for the prudent financial operations of the local church. The Board of Trustees legally holds the title to the property, in the name of the congregation and the United Church of Canada. They oversee the investments of all designated bequests and ensure that the building(s) are kept in good repair, and are adequately insured.

How we are governed

The Congregation is ultimately responsible for the overall well-being of the local church. There must be an Annual General Meeting to review the programs and financial operations of the church. This meeting usually occurs 2 months into every New Year, to allow for the collection of program reports, and audited financial statements from Stewards and Trustees.

Other Congregational meetings are held, as required, to review, receive information, and make decisions brought forward by the Official Board. All such meetings are called by the Chair of the Official Board and require at least 3 weeks notice, both verbal and written. Sufficient relevant information in advance of such meetings is to be expected. All church members are entitled to vote.

At Metropolitan, we approve, at the beginning of each congregational meeting, that voting privileges be extended to all adherents during that meeting.

How we fit with the United Church of Canada

The United Church of Canada provides guidance for the operation of all United Church congregations in this country, including that of Metropolitan United Church. The General Council establishes policy and sets certain mandatory governance principles for us all. It meets every 3 years, and reviews/revises the operations manuals we use. The Congregation in every United Church is ultimately responsible to General Council, through a regional council. For Metropolitan United, that is the Toronto Conference, and a local council, Toronto South Presbytery. All Ministers and one Official Board member from our congregation represent our church at Presbytery. They attend Presbyterial meetings to give and receive information, seek guidance, and obtain necessary approvals for issues regarding major structural or staff changes.

If, at any time, we encounter problems that threaten our effectiveness as a congregation, we would normally ask for Presbyterial assistance.