Sunday worship services are held every week at 10:30 a.m. You will be welcomed by greeters at the main doors, ushers ready to seat you and members offering a hand in friendship.

Children are always welcome. Generally, they join the adults in the sanctuary for about 15 minutes before proceeding to their church school classes. For parents with young children, there is a special family area equipped with books, quiet toys, small tables and chairs. In addition, there is a comfortably furnished nursery for babies and toddlers on the lower level of the building. 

The Rev. Sheila Murray is respected for her sermons relevant to today’s life and world. Through humour, research, Biblical context, personal anecdotes and commitment to her role as a spiritual leader, she gives each listener a message to ponder as she links Christian faith and everyday life. The sermons are printed and available the week following oral delivery.   

Weekly bulletins contain instruction for participation in the service. Colour inserts provide information about upcoming events and opportunities.

Extra services enhance the Christmas and Easter messages. Family services and musical events add depth to the Christmas story. The six weeks of Lent conclude with reflective services on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday before the trumpets sound the good news of Jesus' resurrection during a joyous Easter Day service.  

An elevator and building facilities accommodate people in wheelchairs. Large print bulletins and hymns, pew cushions, hearing assistance devices and a fragrance free environment are some ways we try to make church attendance more enjoyable. On January 1, 2012 a Policy Statement on Accessibility Standards for Customer Service was introduced. For details enter here.  

Music is integral to worship at Royal York Road. It is an opportunity for religious expression, reflection and renewal. Douglas Brownlee, Director of Music, strives to offer high-quality music to everyone in the music program as well as those who hear our music on a weekly basis. The churches vocal choirs and service music are frequently accompanied by the Casavant pipe organ or the grand piano.

The Senior Choir, including four professional soloists, sing each Sunday from September to June. The Senior choir practice Thursday evenings from 7:30 - 9:30 pm.

The Cherub Choir is for children ages 3 to 6 and they meet from 4:45 - 5:15 pm.

The Junior Choir is for children from 7 years of age and up and they meet Thursday evenings from 5:30 - 6:15 pm.

Guest musicians add their flavour to the high holidays. During Sunday Services the congregation uses the hymn book Voices United and its new supplement More Voices. If you love music, whether as a listener or a participant, you'll enjoy Royal York Road.

The hand bell choir, Jubellation, practices early Thursday evenings 6:15 - 7:15 lead by Helen Coxon and performs throughout the year. Thanks to the generosity of members and friends, there are now 37 bells, covering three octaves. Members of this group range in age from teens to over 80. New players are always welcome.

In late 2008 our second CD “Walk in the Light” was released. This CD is a delightful mix of vocal, and instrumental selections.

Lay support is part of the worship experience. Lay leadership and participation are key to the Royal York Road persona as members cheerfully accept their Sunday role as greeters, ushers and readers. They also assume responsibility for behind-the-scenes activities.

The Rev. Sheila Murray, fluent in French and functional in Gaelic, welcomes the opportunity for bilingual worship services and ceremonies.

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