Hello, Forest Hill United Church!

My name is Karen Chandler, and I am delighted to be joining you as your new Minister starting September 1, 2026. I have been a member of the United Church for 50 years, and in May of this year, I graduated from Emmanuel College in Toronto with a Master of Divinity degree. I continue my journey through the United Church’s Candidacy Pathway toward ordained ministry.

My ministry interests include worship and preaching, particularly intergenerational worship, pastoral care, spirituality and the arts, community outreach, and creating places and spaces where people feel welcomed, able to belong, and encouraged to offer their own gifts and talents with others. I believe ministry is something we do together as we listen for where God may be leading us.

I look forward to learning your names and stories, hearing about the traditions you treasure, your hopes for Forest Hill, the congregation and the wider community, and participating in the life and worship of your congregation. Thank you for welcoming me into your church family. I am excited to discover what God may have in store for us.

With much gratitude and excitement,

Karen Chandler

Dear Forest Hill United Friends, 

I am very much looking forward to sharing this year’s Holy Week Services with all of you. 

On March 29, during our Palm Sunday service we will make a palm parade followed by readings, reflections, songs and prayers.  During our time together, we will explore the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem for the feast of the Passover, we will witness his sorrow over Jerusalem, and we will wonder at his boldness as he drives the money-changes from the Temple precincts. 

On April 3, during  our Good Friday service we will hear and reflect on Jesus Seven ‘Words’ from the cross.  Again, the service will be a weave of readings, reflections, songs and prayers as we ponder the spiritual depths of Jesus' final hours. 

Finally, on Easter Sunday we will gather in a joyous celebration of Christ's resurrection.  We will lift our hearts and voices in songs of wonder and praise as we remember the tenancious and surprising hope to which we have all been called.  We will lovingly adorn the cross with the beauty of blossoms and share in our Sacred Meal.  We will remember the living Christ on whom our hearts rely.    

Read more: Palm Sunday - Guest Minister Rev. Debra Schneider