Come share​ our Vision
 To know God through Jesus Christ and to reflect God's love as the church in a changing community and world.
Information on ways to make Donations click HERE
For letter from our Treasurer click HERE
For PAR sign up form click HERE
For PAR cancellation form click HERE
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Burton Avenue United Church is a dynamic Christ-centred community of faith. For over 145 years, we have served the community of Allandale and the surrounding Barrie area, through meaningful worship, spiritual nurture and outreach into the community and wider world. We are inclusive, open, welcoming, willing to push the boundaries and take risks in order to be the hands and voice and heart of Christ. If you are looking for a church home where you will be welcomed, nurtured and challenged, Welcome to Burton Avenue United Church!

EXPLORE BURTON aVENUE uNITED church

What's NEW

Upcoming Livestream Worship. 
 Click HERE for our YouTube channel link and look for the live video stream that begins at 9:50 a.m. with announcements and the service starts at 10:00 a.m.  If you miss the livestream you can watch the recording after it uploads.
Nov. 28: 1st Sunday of Advent: Hope - Celebration of Holy Communion
For those worshiping in person, juice & bread will be placed beforehand in the pews. Should you wish a  gluten free option, it will be available as you enter the sanctuary. For those at home: you are invited to think about what you might use for the elements…. perhaps it will be bread & juice or maybe it will be crackers & Juice, toast and tea or cookies and milk,  muffin and coffee. We will be eating the “bread” together and then drinking the “juice”, so we encourage you to have individual cups.
Dec.  5: 2nd Sunday of Advent: Peace

In-Person Worship Attendance UPDATE - NEW- As a result of the increasing rate of Covid infection in Simcoe /Muskoka, the Health Unit is requiring increased safety measures for Faith Based Communities. In addition to vaccination checks and attendance we must also actively screen each person entering. Come to church early.  Also, sadly, the congregation may not sing.
Please read the following as it has changed. .
Note the following for Sunday, November 28:
1.Proof of vaccination must be shown if you have not yet done so. Please allow extra time for this.
2.Effective Nov. 28, active screening questions must be answered before signing in for attendance. This occurs in the foyer. This must be done each time you attend. Allow extra time.
3. Masking protocols are still in place. Masks must remain on at all times.
4.The congregation cannot sing.
5. Please, no physical contact i.e. hugging, shaking hands etc.
6. Be aware of other folk’s physical space while entering and leaving. We are not all at the same comfort level. Maintain 6 feet distance as much as possible
7.Although there is no seating plan, ushers will actively assist you with  distancing, seating and exiting.
8.Following the Postlude, ushers will direct exiting from the sanctuary and building. Please visit outdoors.

Transition Team Update - Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has advised that it is necessary for further interventions to be implemented in certain public settings to assist in reducing the spread of COVID-19. Communities of faith have been included in these directives. Effective November 26, 2021, the following measures will be in place:
  • Active screening will be conducted daily for all persons entering Burton Avenue United Church, whether or not they have been vaccinated. A series of screening questions will be asked.
  • An attendance record (full name and contact information) of every person who enter any area of the establishment will be maintained.
  • Congregational singing is now suspended as it is strongly discouraged. Singing will only be by the choir who will maintain a physical distance of at least 2 metres from all others at all times.
  • We will continue to implement and follow other public health measures including physical distancing, wearing a mask, cleaning and disinfection.
Proof of Vaccination Policy - You will be required to show proof of full vaccination and identification in order to attend the worship service.  If you have already shown it last week, you do not need to show it again.  The Vaccination policy was sent out by email and mail.  If you have any questions, please be in touch with Islay Scott, Chair of Transition Team.  We are grateful for your understanding as this additional safety measure enhances the safety protocols already in place at Burton Avenue United Church.

Church "Office" Hours - Our building remains closed to the public and anyone who enters the building must follow the guidelines as above.  Messages are checked daily and the office is now open 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to make arrangements if needed, to drop off and/or pick up items at the church.  If this does not work for you, other arrangements can be made ahead by calling or emailing the office at burtonaveunitedchurch@bauc.ca  Andrea Wheaton can be reached in the office Mondays to Thursdays.

Hey Youth! - Did you notice our Youth Singers who helped to provide the music leadership this past week?  We wanted you to know that we have fun every Thursday (from 5:40-6:30 pm), learning songs, singing and laughing together, and putting some actions to our songs.  We schedule ourselves to sing in church every 4 weeks or so - We are LOOKING for new members and would love to welcome you to our group! You don't have to read music, but it is helpful if you can read the words on the page - it makes learning so much easier.  Contact Katie P if you'd like to join us.  We look forward to welcoming you and your voice to our group!

Church Office Reminders - This is a reminder that Linda Gray, Office administrative assistant, can be reached at linda@bauc.ca and Andrea Wheaton, Minister can be reached at andrea@bauc.ca  The public church email address is burtonaveunitedchurch@bauc.ca (if your email is for a particular staff person use their email).

~MOVEMBER~
As we come to the close of Movember 2021, the BAUC Men of Movember wish to thank all who have supported their efforts this year.  There is still time to get informed about Movember’s men’s health initiatives or even sponsor the team or an individual!  BAUC Mo Men can be found by clicking here  We thank you, and until next year, Go Mo!

Burton Ave United’s Snowflake Christmas Tree - will be collecting gifts for children in our community. If you are interested in participating in this gift giving project, please email Cate Fletcher Down. The name of a child, their age and a small wish list can be sent to you via email or you can select a snowflake from our Yearly Snowflake Christmas Tree on Sundays.  If you wish to select a snowflake from the snowflake tree following the worship service, please remain seated until the ushers have finished exiting the congregation. Then come one at a time, pick your snowflake and proceed to the foyer to record it on the list before exiting. Names are available now and gifts are due by Dec.10-13. The gifts should be unwrapped with the name and number provided to you. Please keep the gifts around $50.00.  Once you have your gifts selected they can be dropped off on Sunday mornings by simply putting them in the back of our car before you enter the church.  We’ll be there each Sunday by 9:15 with Santa's Beige Buick Enclave Sleigh.  Otherwise another option is to drop them off at 32 Springhome Road in Allandale.  Give me a call and one of my elves will be there to receive them.  Thanks again for making a difference,  Cate

Newsletter - The newest edition will be sent by email on Nov. 26 and printed copies available, for those who need them, for pick up on Sun., Nov. 28. or mailed.

Book Club - We have been meeting on Zoom since March 2020.  A poll of those attendees resulted in a consensus to meet Face to Face on Oct. 26th in Burton Avenue’s Rainbow Club room, following Covid 19 safety protocols. It was wonderful to actually see people in person and we had a great discussion. We have agreed to hold future meetings at the church. All are welcome to join us. Upcoming selections: Nov. 30, 7pm: Crossroads by Kaleb Dahlgren. Please confirm your attendance by email to Lesley Landry. Jan. 25, 7pm: Falling by TJ Newman

In-person Youth Inc is Back! - We are excited to announce our return to in person gatherings beginning this Sun., Nov. 14th!  We look forward to seeing those of you that are returning and welcome those of you that are joining 😊 - Covid protocols will be in place, all leaders and youth ages 12 and up must show proof of full vaccination and everyone must wear a mask during the meetings. We will review entire safety protocol upon arrival.  Please complete the registration form found by clicking here and bring with you to the meeting. Any questions or concerns feel free to contact Kim Stoll

Open Hands United - is excited to offer you an opportunity to get a head start on your Christmas shopping! A catalogue of handmade Nicaraguan jewelry and crafts has been prepared, and the catalogue has been emailed out to members of the congregation. Information about the sale is available on the BAUC website and Facebook Group. A few hardcopies of the catalogue are available at the church. Each item in the catalogue has been priced, as well as given an item number and letter code. To purchase an item, send the item number and letter  code to revpat@rogers.com, or call the church office and leave a message for Rev Pat. Confirmation of your purchases will be emailed to you. Purchases can be picked up at the church on Dec. 4 and Dec. 18 10 am-12:00 noon. Payment can be made with cash, debit or credit cards. All proceeds from the sale will be used to support our ministry in Nicaragua.

Victorian Tea Drive-Through Event - Sat., Dec. 4 from 2 - 4 p.m. - Come start the Advent season with a taste of Christmas music and the traditional Victorian Tea (drive-through style). Orders will consist of six homemade scones, preserves, devon cream and two tea bags for $12.  Order online by clicking here (MOST preferred method)  Orders are due Sat. Nov. 27    Payment can be made in the following methods: -Etransfers can be sent to treasurerbauc@outlook.com (please note “Vic Tea” in comments) (MOST preferred) or by Cheques (made out to Burton Avenue United Church) *Note “Vic Tea” on cheque.  If paying by cash, please submit the exact amount of $12 per order. Both cheques or cash, can be dropped off at BAUC in sealed envelopes in the mail slot beside the doors (parking lot side of the church).  **ALSO If you can make a dozen (or more) scones and/or have strawberry freezer jam to donate, please contact Nicole Masuda  or Brenda McGee.

Memorial Poinsettia
If you would like to make a donation to the Memorial fund of any amount and provide us with the name of the individual you are donating in memory of, we will include your dedication on a list of names and remembrances which will be shared on the PowerPoint during the Ministry of Music on Sun., Dec. 19.  We will take some of the funds that are received and purchase poinsettia to be displayed in the sanctuary.  These plants will stay in the Sanctuary for the duration of the Christmas season and will NOT be picked up and taken home.  Only a certain number of plants will be purchased, due to space issues, but all donations will be recognized on the Memorial Roll dedication.  Please click here to submit online OR click here to print or download form.  The form can be submitted by email to Brenda Young at wiley-cook@sympatico.ca  or by dropping off in the church mail slot by Fri., Dec. 10.  Donations can be included with your regular offering, indicated OTHER – MEMORIAL or by separate cheque or e-transfer made out to Burton Avenue United Church (Memorial Poinsettia).  Thank you in advance for helping to beautify our Sanctuary and for allowing us to remember your loved ones during the Advent and Christmas seasons.

Chili & Chowder is back, only this time pick-up or drive through! - Sun., Dec. 12 we will be providing chili and seafood chowder for take-out immediately after the worship service or drive-through from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - We will be offering your choice of Alan's seafood chowder, Wayne's meat chili, or Chris' vegetarian chili in 400 ml servings plus a dinner roll for $10. Order online by clicking here (MOST preferred method to register)  Orders are due  Sun., Dec 5th.  Payment can be made in the following methods: - Etransfers can be sent to treasurerbauc@outlook.com (please note “ Chili and Chow ” in comments) (MOST preferred) or by Cheque (made out to Burton Avenue United Church) *Note “ Chili and Chow” on cheque.  If paying by cash, please submit the exact amount of $10 per order. Both cheques or cash, can be dropped off at BAUC in sealed envelopes in the mail slot beside the doors (parking lot side of the church)

Knitters wanted - In follow up to the Getting To Tomorrow dialogues, our friends at the Gilbert Centre are looking for ways to keep the dialogue going, bridge gaps, and build connection between people who use drugs and the community. They have asked me to reach out to my friends in the faith community to help do this. In preparation for the  upcoming cold Canadian winter and the Christmas holidays they have asked if we have some knitters that would be interested in knitting wool socks, and mittens for their clients. Receiving hand knitted items by members of their community will do more than keep hands and feet warm, it will help those that receive them feel cared for by their neighbours. If you are able to knit something  contact Christine Nayler or Sarah Tilley  from the Gilbert Centre for more information.
 
Volunteer bakers - Ryan's Hope is looking for volunteer bakers to bake muffins, banana bread, tarts, cookies for  their Breakfast-To-Go program as well as their new Night Shift. If you are interested in baking contact Christine Nayler.

40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism
Delve deeply into anti-racism work with a 40-day time of learning, reflection, and advocacy!  Each day from Tues., Oct. 12 to Fri., Nov. 26 (with the exception of Sundays) there will be a new reflection on anti-racism, as well as activities suitable for adults and children. These activities can be done alone, as a family, or in groups.  For more information 

Calling all Spring Flingers! - Have we had enough of this enforced isolation? Do you yearn to go dancing in the streets? Or, failing that, maybe get dressed up for an evening of great food, entertainment and community?  I certainly have, so it is time to start thinking about bringing back one of the highlights of the Burton Avenue social calendar, the Spring Fling Dinner. If you are interested in serving on the organizing committee to help plan this event for early March of 2022, please contact Alan McGee.   While we cannot predict what our situation will be at that time, if we don't start planning for it now, it won't happen.  Looking forward to having some fun planning and participating in a great event.  Alan McGee

You're Invited - St. Mary's Church, 65 Amelia St., Barrie is happy to announce our 2nd Annual Christmas Market, called "Lux Vitae"(meaning light of life) will take place on Fri., Nov. 26 & Sat., Nov. 27 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. The candle-lit path invites patrons to come and journey with us as they explore a variety of vendors, listen to live music, enjoy some food and beverages and ultimately end up at our live Nativity scene. Come out and enjoy this exciting event! Invite your friends and neighbours!  COVID protocols in place.

Little Free Pantry - The Food Bank will continue to fill and monitor the pantry on Fridays.   We are invited to stock as we can with non-perishable food items or items can be dropped off on Sunday mornings from 9-10 directly in the food pantry or in our collection bin to keep stock on hand.  Commonly Needed Items: Ready to eat items such as:  • Bottles of Water • Granola bars • Juice Boxes • Oatmeal Packages • Pudding Cups • Fruit cups • Apple sauce • Dry cereal packs • Flip top canned items • Crackers • Peanut Butter • Dry Soup Mixes • Canned Meat • Cookies • Beef Jerky.

UPDATE: To help ensure greater safety for everyone and especially our most vulnerable, we urge all those that are eligible to be vaccinated, to have done so before attending in person worship.
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Meet Burtie Church!  Burtie uses they/them as their pronouns.  Burtie is interested in learning about Burton Ave United Church and especially how we are living into being an Affirming Church.  If you would like to have Burtie come visit your home to help answer and ask questions, please be in touch with Andrea Wheaton. Burtie fits in a envelope and comes with a journal for questions, answers, drawings and photos of time spent with you!  Then they travel to the next family so more about us can be added to the journal!

ONGOING News


​​​​Masks for Sale - I am making and selling fabric face masks.  I have 2 sizes available (child and adult) and several colours and fabric designs.  These masks have a wire insert for fitting around the nose and a pocket area where you can add a filter if you wish.  They are available for pick-up or delivery (in Barrie).  They are $10 each with 100% of sales going to Burton Avenue United Church.  To order, please email Cate F.D. through the office or directly if you have her contact info.  Thank you to all the people who who have ordered masks.  Your support has been amazing!  Thanks, Cate.

​​Pastoral Care - many of us have been keeping in touch through phone calls, emails and even snail mail. What a blessing it has been that we can still connect to one another in those ways. This has been a good time for so many of us to get to know others in our church that we did not yet know! Remember that Pastoral Care is a ministry that all of us share and need to participate in, however we can.  Whether you are making contact or receiving contact, we are caring for one another. Whether you are on the prayer list or you are praying for those on the list, we are caring for one another.  Whether you are listening to someone's concerns or you are voicing your worries, we are caring for one another.  As we continue to be apart, we will need to continue to stay in touch and care for one another in all the ways that we can. ​

lend a helping hand

Barrie Food Bank -  is in need of juice, jam and toilet paper.

Youth Haven residents have been moved to a motel for their health and safety and that of their staff. The shelter will remain open for EMERGENCY services only. Due to current COVID19 measures they are only accepting financial donations at this time. Financial donations can be made online at youthhaven.ca 

The Busby Centre is in need of the following items. Men’s boots sizes 10 -11 ½, Men’s track pants medium and large preferred, small accepted as well, coffee whiter and sugar, pasta sauce. Items may be dropped off at the centre from 10-2 Monday to Friday.

Baked Goods for Busby Centre - Those interested in contributing baked goods or store bought snack items for the Busby Outreach Team, please contact Andrew Telford for specifics. The Busby Centre would like to coordinate donations with other organizations and the existing sandwich program. This is in addition to the Breakfast Program as there is a great need in our community!  Appreciate any help you can offer.
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The Open Hands Mission Team is supporting a number of projects in Nicaragua including the building of a school.  Donations in support of the Nicaragua Mission should be made payable to "Open Hands United Mission.

             ON THE WEB
Please email blindalleyarts@rogers.com for corrections, changes, or additions to the website.

Burton Avenue United Church Facebook Page
Please feel free to invite your friends and family to like the page and join us at our events.
https://www.facebook.com/BurtonAvenueUnitedChurch/

On Going


During our time out of the building due to Covid-19, these announcments may not apply

 Nametags – If you would like a nametag or you need a new one please sign up in the foyer or let the office know.  Children & Youth can have nametags too.  If parents prefer just first names on the children’s tags let us know.  And remember to wear your nametag.  It helps us get to know one another.

Resource Corner - Both the Affirm Team and the Truth & Reconciliation Committee have compiled books and other resources that you can borrow or keep. On the bulletin board right outside the sanctuary the Outreach Committee have posted information about Mental Health Awareness – take any flyers or information that you need.

Car Pool to Church – Are you able to occasionally offer rides to church for those needing them?  We are wanting to collect a list of those able to offer rides.  If you wish more information or are able to offer rides, please speak to Andrea Wheaton.

Parking Lot - Did you know that on Sundays there is parking on the other side of the school next door to us?  There is also the lot behind the school which can be accessed from Cumberland St. or there is now a road from our lot to it. Please leave the parking spaces closest to the church for those who have difficulty walking a further distance.

People with hearing aids!!  The sanctuary is equipped with a loop system which works with your hearing aids.  You must have a “T coil” installed and activated.  Set your hearing aid to “T coil”.

Notice to Church Members and Guests Our services and events may be photographed or videotaped for the purpose of informing our members or the public.  If you have a concern about your image being used in these situations, please let us know.