The Rev Sheila Murray was born on Prince Edward Island and was raised there and in New Brunswick. She received her BA in French Studies from Mt. Allison University before attending the University of Toronto where she obtained her Master of Religious Education and Master of Divinity from Emmanuel College, Victoria University.
During 28 years of Ministry in Quebec and Toronto, Sheila has experienced a full range of ministerial duties from Preaching and Pastoral Care to developing a 3 year curriculum for children, designed to introduce them to the major stories of our faith tradition. Sheila loves all aspects of ministry, but is especially dedicated to helping people plan funerals that reflect and respect a person’s life within the context of our faith tradition
Her current passions/challenges in life, outside of work, include Highland Dance, Gaelic, running and learning to play her grandfather’s fiddle.
Douglas Brownlee, Director of Music, is delighted to offer his talents and expertise to the Royal York Road United Church family. A United Church member since a child, Douglas grew up on a farm near Ontario’s Thames River. He has lived in various cities across South-Western Ontario and now resides in Toronto.
Douglas holds degrees in music, art and education from Wilfrid Laurier University and Windsor University where he studied with Jan Overduin and Barrie Cabena. His career in music spans over 20 years, including experience with a number of concert choirs. Notable is his experience at St. James Anglican Church in Dundas, Ontario where he co-consulted, with David Palmer on the installation of a 40 rank pipe organ built by Canadian organ builder, D. Leslie Smith.
At Royal York Road United, Douglas researches and plans the music for Sunday worship and develops the musical programs. In addition, he rehearses and directs the Royal York adult, junior and cherub choirs. You can always find Douglas playing the organ and piano at the Sunday services.
Douglas is an avid gardener, a printmaker and encaustic painter. He has exhibited work in a number of group art shows and held his first solo encaustic art exhibition February 2012.
Working with a team of exceptionally talented musicians and committed people at Royal York Road United, Douglas welcomes everyone – adults, youth and children -- to contact him about becoming involved in the music ministry through singing or musical instrument.
Miguel Mercado, our meticulous, always cheerful church custodian, was born and educated in Lima, Peru. He came to Canada in 2000 and became a citizen in 2006.
Miguel enjoys learning and appreciates the knowledge and experience he has gained through his maintenance and custodial duties.
His off duty interests include music, cooking and travel.
