SOUTH CAYUGA—From three small churches to one thriving congregation, South Cayuga Community Church is marking 15 years of unity, resilience, and community spirit.
The anniversary represents more than just the passage of time. It highlights the determination of a rural community that chose collaboration over closure and successfully brought together members, traditions, and resources.
What began in 2007 as a proposal to unite the Dunn, Kohler, and South Cayuga United Churches has since grown into a stable and active congregation.
The result is both a physical place of worship and a lasting example of cooperation in the face of change.
To commemorate its 15th anniversary, the church is hosting a range of events throughout the year.
On June 1, 2025, the congregation will welcome musical group Breezze Creek for a 1 p.m. performance, with freewill donations supporting local hospice services.
A special anniversary service will follow on June 8 at 10 a.m., featuring guest music and a speaker. Cake and ice cream will be served afterward, and everyone is welcome to attend.
These two gatherings cap off several months of celebration.
Earlier this year, the church hosted a hymn sing and welcomed the Haldimand Norfolk Concert Band for its third appearance.
More events are still to come, including a float in Dunnville’s Mudcat Parade, a joint picnic with Dunnville United Church in July, and a possible corn roast in August.
The story of South Cayuga Community Church began when Dunn’s growing congregation outpaced its building’s capacity.
Expansion plans were considered, but the projected costs led to a new idea: what if the three churches joined together and built a shared space? That vision gained momentum in October 2007 when the proposal to amalgamate was approved.
Committees formed to oversee site selection, fundraising, and building design. The site of the former Trinity church was chosen, and plans were developed for a single-level building that would meet the community’s needs. The sanctuary was designed to seat about 180 people, with folding back walls to accommodate larger gatherings. A fellowship hall, kitchen, gathering room, Sunday school space, and office areas were all incorporated into the layout.
By 2009, services had been consolidated, and the new congregation was operating under the name South Cayuga Community Church. The name was chosen through a congregational vote, with strong support. Construction began in July 2009, led by Brantford-based builder Lanca. Members watched with excitement as their new church took shape.
Historic elements from all three churches were incorporated into the new building. Stained glass windows and the organ came from Kohler, while Dunn contributed its communion table, piano, and two hanging stained glass pieces. South Cayuga’s pews, pulpit, and steeple bell were also preserved. Other furnishings were salvaged, repurposed, or donated, bringing comfort and continuity to the new space.
The first service was held on Easter Sunday in 2010. A formal dedication followed in June with participation from members of the Presbytery, Conference, and the building team. Rev. David McKane delivered a sermon titled “Kitchen Conversations,” inspired by the belief that the earliest ideas for the church likely began around a kitchen table.
Since then, the church has continued to thrive. On a typical Sunday, 60 to 70 people attend, including children. About 25 children are registered in Sunday school, although attendance varies week to week. A regular coffee hour follows each service, offering time for fellowship and connection.
Linda Link, one of the founding members and a current anniversary committee volunteer, said the church’s welcoming environment and strong sense of community are key to its success.
“We all came together with our same church families in one new larger facility,” she said. “There were sad times when we closed our former churches, but we built something beautiful together.”
The church is led by Rev. Dawn Ballantyne, who joined the congregation in 2019 and was ordained in 2023 under a United Church of Canada policy change recognizing experienced pastors.
Her creativity has brought fresh ideas to worship, including events like Tractor Sunday, Holy Humour Sunday, and Easter hat decorating workshops.
Music is another vital part of church life. The choir, known as Joyful Noise, includes 16 to 20 members and originated from the three founding congregations.
Last year, a ukulele group called the Joyful Strummers was formed. The two groups alternate providing music during services, contributing to the lively and engaging atmosphere.
The 15th anniversary celebrations were planned by a dedicated committee of six members along with Rev. Ballantyne. Chaired by Wendy Willis, the group includes Arlene Tatarnic, Edna Richardson, Linda Simons, Marjorie Smith, and Linda Link. Their efforts have ensured that this milestone year reflects the energy and gratitude of the congregation.
South Cayuga Community Church has also embraced technology. During the pandemic, the congregation began receiving services via email and telephone. Eventually, they moved online, and in early 2023, installed a full audio-visual system. Services are now streamed weekly, allowing members to stay connected even when they cannot attend in person.
Fifteen years on, the church continues to grow in faith and fellowship. With youth programs, a strong Sunday school, United Church women and men’s groups, and a steady calendar of community events, the congregation remains active and engaged.
