At Metropolitan, funerals and memorial services allow friends and family to gather up the years of a life, and help them face their loss. The beauty of our sacred space can ease the pain of bereavement. If you wish to hold a funeral at Metropolitan United Church, we've provided some information below. For more information, you may contact one of our ministry staff who would be honoured to assist you.
The Rev. John Joseph Mastandrea at 416-363-0331 ext 24.
The Rev. Dr. Malcolm Sinclair at 416-363-0331 ext. 27.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can have a funeral at Metropolitan United Church?
Of course, members and adherents of Metropolitan may have funerals at our church. But we are also available to assist newcomers in their time of bereavement. Contact one of our ministry Staff for information.
Does the deceased have to have been a member of the United Church of Canada, or a practicing Christian in order to have his or her funeral at Metropolitan?
No. The family or friend who has died does not have to have been a member of the United Church of Canada or a practicing Christian. We will conduct funeral services for people of all faiths.
Is there a charge for the funeral?
Yes, there is a charge that will be arranged with the ministry staff and the Church Administator. The fee includes an honoraria for Ministry Staff, Organist, and Care Staff.
How many people can be seated at Metropolitan?
The sanctuary, including the balcony, holds 800 persons comfortably in our pews. We can fit an additional 100 people on folding chairs at the rear of the church.
What should I do to arrange a funeral?
You should make contact with one of the ministry staff, who will review details with you. Then the minister will contact our interim church administrator The Rev. John Joseph Mastandrea at 416-363-0331 ext 24.
Are there restrictions on the day and time a funeral can be held? Funerals can be booked for time between Monday and Saturday, or on Sunday afternoons.
What about music at the service?
We can provide music at the funeral service, and arrangements can be made directly with our organist: Dr. Patricia Wright at 416-363-0331 ext 26.
Will the choir sing at the service?
Metropolitan's senior choir comprises paid soloists and a corps of volunteer singers. We are sometimes able to provide a choir at funeral services, depending on their availability.
Do you have space for a reception following the funeral?
Yes. We have a newly designed space called the Metropolitan Centre that is available for your reception, with full kitchen/catering facilities as well as tables and chairs. While we do not have a license for this space, you are permitted to secure your own liquor license for the space. The booking and cost arrangements can be made with our interim administrator The Rev. John Joseph Mastandrea at 416-363-0331 ext 24.
Does Metropolitan offer catering services?
No, but we can provide a list of preferred caterers to you.
