There was a good turnout of residents, parishioners and interested parties at Manor Road United Church Wednesday night to hear about changes to the 90-year-old place of worship and community hub. As has been reported, the easterly half of the church’s property has been sold to the City as a public park. The sale was deemed the best solution to tightening conditions for the church. It is believed the investment of the proceeds will sustain Manor Road well into the future. The sale of the land will require the demolition of the large gymnasium building to the east. It has accommodated many church activities as well as the Montessori school in the basement. To make up for this loss, the original church will be renovated to accommodate sacred services in the sanctuary as well as meeting spaces, a kitchen and washrooms. The old pews will be removed and moveable chairs will be purchased for all seating. The chairs will be stored when the church holds public events such as its pancake breakfast and fall fair. (Those pews might be hot items for collectors of church furniture).
REVEREND SCHNEIDER
The gathering heard from Reverend Debra Schneider who said she would miss the gymnasium as the scene of so many happy events. She recalled that it was built through the efforts of the community and it seemed suitable she said that the land be returned to the community in the form of a park. The reverend asked that residents support the church at a Committee of Adjustment meeting set for December 2, 2015, required by certain minor variances. Reverend Schneider particularly thanked parishioner Neil Jacoby, chair of the church’s redevelopment committee for his informed assistance during negotiations. The meeting heard from architect Janet Harrison. She set out the changes to doors and walkways. Also present was Josh Matlow (Ward 22) who advised the church and assisted in the sale of the land to the City, and MP-designate Rob Oliphant,. newly-elected in the riding of Don Valley West, and a United Church Minister.
