10/10/2025
This Sunday we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Congregation of Carleton Memorial United Church. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we are giving thanks for 75 years of community and service. Join us on October 12 at 10:30 am to celebrate this milestone!
The first church service for the Carleton Memorial United Church congregation in Ottawa traces its roots to the post-World War II era, when the community was founded by veterans in memory of their fallen comrades. The congregation was officially inaugurated in 1950, but its beginnings go back to 1947, when an interdenominational Sunday School was established at Harboard School for families in the Veterans’ Small Holdings area. By 1949, interdenominational worship services began at the newly built Carleton Heights School, with ministers from various denominations officiating.
In early 1950 local families with interest in the United Church held a meeting to form their own congregation. The decisive meeting took place on September 6, 1950, where plans were made to build a new United Church—intended as a place for christenings, marriages, Sunday School, and community gathering. In October 1950, Reverend E.A. Martineau formally organized the Congregation of Carleton Heights and district under the authority of Ottawa Presbytery. The name "Carleton Memorial United Church," suggested by Alex Michie, was readily embraced by the members. Fundraising and organizing then commenced to support the creation of Carleton Memorial United Church, culminating in the first service in the newly built church building on October 17, 1954.
