St. Matthew's United Church

St. Matthew's United Church is a welcoming congregation in Belleville, Ontario, formed from the amalgamation of two historic Methodist churches. The church offers Sunday worship at 10am, a free lunch program on Tuesdays, and a food pantry. Sunday worship is livestreamed from Bridge Street United Church.

St. Matthew's United Church is a United Church of Canada congregation located at 25 Holloway Street in Belleville, Ontario. Formed in 1995 from the merger of Tabernacle United Church and Holloway Street United Church, the church continues to serve the community with a blend of traditional and modern practices. Sunday worship is held at 10am and is livestreamed from Bridge Street United Church, led by The Rev. Sherry Fugard. The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible and equipped with hearing-assist devices. After worship, the congregation shares light refreshments and conversation.

The church offers a range of community programs, including a free lunch program on Tuesdays from noon to 1pm and a food pantry that operates at 1pm on the same day. These programs are supported by volunteers like Sabrina and Kayla, who are praised for their dedication in reviews. Lunch program and food pantry are key community services that support those in need.

St. Matthew's also hosts various community groups and events, such as the Ontario Genealogical Society and the United Church Women's meetings. The church is a proud sponsor of Camp Quin Mo Lac and Five Oaks, both affiliated with the United Church of Canada. Community programs include Canadian Tai Chi on Mondays and Thursdays, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings on Wednesdays at 8pm, and United Church Women meetings on the 4th Wednesday of each month at 1:30pm.

The church building is available for rentals, offering office space, board rooms, large halls, and the sanctuary. Rental spaces are available for hourly, half-day, full-day, or monthly use. The church is committed to accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that all programs and services are accessible to people of all abilities.

Newcomers are warmly welcomed, and the church is known for its friendly and supportive community. Reviews highlight the kindness of the congregation and the welcoming atmosphere, making St. Matthew's a valued part of the Belleville community.

St. Matthew's United Church in Otonabee-South Monaghan, ON, offers a welcoming environment with a blend of traditional and modern worship. First-time visitors would likely notice the accessible sanctuary, livestreamed Sunday services at 10am, and a strong commitment to community support through programs like the free lunch and food pantry. The church's inclusive atmosphere and volunteer-driven initiatives reflect its role as a central gathering place in Belleville.

Pros

• Welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for newcomers
• Livestreamed Sunday worship at 10am with accessible sanctuary features
• Community-focused programs including free lunch and food pantry on Tuesdays
• Wheelchair accessibility and hearing-assist devices available
• Diverse community events and rental spaces for various needs
• Active volunteer support for outreach initiatives

Cons

• Basement facilities are noted as slightly aged
• Website provides limited details on family or children's ministries
• Accessibility of parking or arrival information is not specified
• Service times are limited to a single Sunday slot
• Information on newcomer orientation or first-visit guidance is sparse
• Some event details, like the spring yard sale dates, are not yet current