About Us

Stephen’s journey into ministry is a testament to the unexpected paths life can take us on. Raised as the son of an Ordained Minister, he spent his youth firmly convinced that his life’s work would lie far from the pulpit.

Upon the completion of his B.A. degree from Laurentian University in Sudbury, M. Div. from Emmanuel College, University of Toronto, and D. Min. from Wesley Theological in Washington D.C., Stephen has served both multi-point rural and urban congregations in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, St. Thomas, Toronto, Oakville, and Brantford.

A leader who is passionate about sharing the relevance of the collected stories of faith with life today, Stephen has been able to offer congregations and communities the opportunity to reconnect with the call to hear, live, and share the Good News in ways that make sense within the context of our current culture and community.

Stephen’s journey, from a young man determined to forge his own path to a respected leader in the church demonstrated by chairing numerous presbytery committees, as Chair of the Gathering Advisory Board that oversees the production of the respected Worship Resource magazine, Gathering, a member of the national Worship and Liturgy Group of the General Council of the United Church of Canada, and a General Council of the United Church representative.

Stephen’s leadership showcases the strength that comes from embracing one’s calling with both courage and a down-to-earth humility. His life’s work is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they are truly dedicated to serving others and sharing a message of hope and unity.

Mark MacLean has been in active ministry since 1994, serving worshipping communities across a wide range of contexts, from small rural settings to suburban congregations and major urban centres. Throughout his ministry, Mark has been deeply committed to walking alongside communities of faith as they seek to move forward in thoughtful, innovative, and intentional ways.

At the core of his calling is a passion for nurturing deep relationships with the Gospel and strengthening meaningful connections within the community of faith. Mark is especially devoted to pastoral presence across generations, valuing the richness that emerges when people of all ages are seen, supported, and engaged. Whether in congregational life or professional ministry, he brings a relational, grounded, and hopeful approach shaped by decades of experience and a deep love for the Church and its people.

For over 180 years, St. John’s has been reaching out to all of God’s people.

From the early days, this congregation has been committed to serving others. Warm clothes and care packages were sent to soldiers during both world wars. Freight cars were loaded with supplies for prairie farmers. Funds were raised through our Outreach efforts to help those in need, both locally and around the world. We’ve supported a youth centre and assisted in the purchase of a Red Cross van.

Through it all, this congregation continues to strive to exemplify the life and love of Jesus Christ—and will do so for many generations to come.

The next time you're walking through downtown Oakville and hear the Carillon chimes of St. John’s, remember: they are calling you to come and join us, and to help make this a better world.

The Henderson family left a bequest to St. John’s for five octaves of handbells in 2006. Since then, the group has rehearsed weekly and performs three or four times a year.

“When we perform, we play four or five pieces at one service. There’s a lovely sound when they’re played.”

New ringers are always welcome and the ability to read music is not a requirement, although a good sense of rhythm is a great start.

Our Chancel Choir sings at Sunday morning Worship, as well as other special services throughout the year. We are fortunate to have talented section leaders, and are always ready to welcome any adult with a love of music and a desire to share their voice through song. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings September through June, and guidance and good humour is provided by our Director of Music, Svetlana Kotliarenko.