Ministries
Woodcliff offers connection and support by providing programs and community care through various ministries aimed at all different ages and stages of life.
Children’s Ministry
Sunday mornings are just one of the places kids grow in faith at Woodcliff.
Join us for Children’s programming September to June. Children are welcome during the summer in our worship services.
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From September - June, parents will sign their child in first with our Sunday School Coordinator and then everyone gathers in the Sanctuary for the first part of worship. After Learning Together, the children will be invited to follow the Sunday School Coordinator to a classroom to explore and interact with a Bible story. Children are also welcome to stay with their parents if that feels more comfortable. We have worship bags with some things for them to enjoy during the service. Just ask the greeter for one.
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All children are welcome to join us for our children’s program, we ask that parents accompany those children who are 2 and under.
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In addition to the Sunday School lessons we welcome families to participate in special evening events from time to time. This may be a family dinner, movie night or games night. Often these events have intergenerational connections and offer families the chance to connect with the work of our other church committees.
Music
The sound of music fills our sanctuary every Sunday morning, thanks to the Choir and a variety of guest musicians who share their musical talents throughout the year.
Our choir is open to anyone who would like to sing, no previous experience necessary. Join us on Thursday evenings from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. for practice.
Looking for more information or to get involved? Please contact the office.
Building Connections
Woodcliff is active 7 days a week building community, working towards a more just world and providing opportunities for all in the journey of spiritual growth.
Consider getting involved in one or more of the activities currently offered.
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We enjoy exploring and engaging in different spiritual practices like walking a labyrinth, meditation, centering prayer, meditative walks, and nature journaling. Check out our Program & Events page for more information!
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Come join us for a good cup of coffee or tea and some social connection on Thursday mornings either online or in person. Rumour has it that good baked goods tend to be on hand at Thirsty Thursdays!
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We know many crave fun social connections and creating community so we often run small groups during the year that focus just on that.
Check out our Programs & Events page for more information.
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Women of Woodcliff (WOW) is an active and fun loving group that loves to learn and make a difference in other’s lives.
Meeting monthly for a time of connection, a guest speaker and refreshments, WOW welcomes all people who identify as women to join them.
Outreach
Outreach, a vibrant and key ministry at Woodcliff, focuses on bringing awareness to local and global needs, pressing social justice issues, reconciliation initiatives, and building community.
For more information or to suggest a project:
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Stretching out to meet needs in the wider community, we believe we strengthen one another to work, through God's grace, for a better world.
Together with the congregation, Outreach raises funds and awareness for others outside of Woodcliff both locally and globally. Some of our partners include: Habitat for Humanity, Brenda’s House, Sonshine House, Calgary Drop In Centre, Calgary Food Bank and projects through the Mission and Service Fund of the United Church of Canada.
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Addressing social justice issues is a key focus area for Outreach and we strive to bring awareness as well as initiate action surrounding various issues ranging from food security to addictions to homelessness.
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In 2019, our Outreach Committee made a commitment to a “Journey For Common Ground” — learning, listening and walking with the Indigenous community in an effort for healing and reconciliation. We continue to organise various initiatives which have been supported by the United Church’s Justice and Reconciliation Fund.
Most recently, we developed the outdoor space behind the church which includes a labyrinth, the National Healing Forest, an Indigenous Medicine Wheel Garden, a native plant garden and benches for rest and reflection. Feel free to stop and relax in these very calming peaceful spaces. All are welcome!
Interested in learning more or getting involved with Journey for Common Ground? Please contact the office.
Community Building Events
Woodcliff helps organize several activities throughout the year like concerts, learning opportunities, special speakers, workshops, plays, inter-generational programs, annual community advent calendar and so much more— all in the name of building community.
We welcome people to get involved. Check out our Calendar of Events in the Program and Events Page.
Pastoral Care
Our Pastoral Care ministry focuses on providing care and support for those in our church community.
From times of loss to struggles with different stages of life, our community of faith is here for you.
Interested in providing support to others? Different opportunities exist and we’d love to involve you as a volunteer.
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This ministry sends cards to community members to honour special events in their lives, and in times of illness and bereavement.
Do you enjoy writing cards and showing you care? Consider volunteering to help with our Card Ministry.
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Casserole Ministry provides nourishing pre-made food on a short-term basis to those who are experiencing life situations that make it difficult to obtain or prepare healthy food.
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For those who have been active members at Woodcliff but are perhaps now less able to travel to Woodcliff, our One on One visiting team endeavours to keep in touch via telephone, email, or personal visits.
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Never underestimate the power of prayer…
Prayers and blessings are knit into each shawl that is made by our knitters. Anyone is most welcome to join the prayer shawl ministry. Yarns and patterns are available.
To make a request for a shawl, please contact the office.
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Woodcliff has a Prayer Chain Ministry where all requests for prayer are received with respect, without judgement and in confidence. Our prayers reflect the diversity of God’s love, using language that is inclusive and affirming of all people, regardless of gender, orientation, background, or life experience.
If the prayer request is for someone other than yourself we ask that you have that person’s permission before submitting the request.
It would be a privilege to offer you or someone you care about prayer support during a difficult time. Please email your request to prayerchain@woodcliffunited.com
Property
The Property Committee is tasked with all activities relating to the operation and maintenance of the church building and property. It is responsible for ensuring the building and property are safe, in good repair, adequately insured, and able to accommodate the requirements of Woodcliff and its user groups.
Volunteer Maintenance Group
The Volunteer Maintenance Group supports the care of the Woodcliff building and property by monitoring, maintaining and to a limited extent, operating the building and property of Woodcliff. Working alongside the Property Committee, this group helps ensure the facility remains safe, functional, and welcoming for all who use it.
Hospitality Ministry
The Hospitality Ministry helps create a warm and welcoming environment for all who come to Woodcliff. From greeting visitors to hosting fellowship time, hospitality volunteers foster a sense of connection and belonging. This ministry supports the church’s hope to engage, energize, and excite the congregation through genuine care and community.