2025 FUNERALS AT FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, COLLINGWOOD
First Presbyterian Church is privileged to assist you through the process of grief and loss. Part of that process is planning a funeral or celebration of life in memory of the one that you have lost. Our minister is often called upon to lead funeral services for people in the community, both in the church building or at a funeral home, and is happy to walk with you through this process. The following Information will be helpful as you determine how best to celebrate the life of your loved one.
ACCESSIBILITY
First Presbyterian has a large parking lot with plenty of on-road overflow parking. There is a ground-level door off the parking lot with an elevator inside the lobby that will take you to the main floor. Our custodial staff would be pleased to assist you with the elevator. There are three washrooms located conveniently on the main level.
SANCTUARY
Funeral services are typically held within our sanctuary which can hold 350 people according to fire and safety regulations. The sanctuary is fitted with pews as well as removable seats along one said which can accommodate wheelchairs once easily removed. The sanctuary boasts an organ, piano, microphones and Av equipment.
LOWER HALL
Our lower hall can accommodate up to 120 people for refreshments and conversation with your guests. We have tables and chairs if needed or we can clear the space for standing room only. We suggest a hybrid of tables and standing room for your function. There are two washrooms located on this level and the elevator will take you down from the main floor to the lower level if required.
REFRESHMENTS
In most situations First Presbyterian Church can provide refreshments in the lower hall following the service should you desire it. Your funeral director can also assist you in selecting a good local catering company to prepare food. In that case we can provide cups and small plates for your function as well as (volunteer permitting) provide volunteer washing and clean-up.
ADMINISTRATION
Our Administrator is happy to assist you with booking the space, coordinating with your funeral director, and creating a bulletin for your event. Marlene can be reached at 705 445-4651 Monday to Friday between 9 am and 1 pm or via email at firstchurch@rogers.com
AUDIO-VISUAL
First Presbyterian utilizes sophisticated audio-visual equipment. Should you desire to present a slideshow or video that you have created, wish to have the service livestreamed, or want to record the event, we can accommodate most requests with some planning. See rental fees below.
CUSTODIAL
Due to security requirements and accessibility assistance needs with large gatherings we require that our custodian be available for funeral services. Our custodian can assist your guests in finding facilities and directing people to their seats as well as work with volunteers to clean up after the event.
PIANIST/ORGANIST
First Presbyterian is blessed with two pianists and one organist to provide music for your event. Musicians can be arranged through the minister as needed depending upon availability.
MINISTER
Our minister is happy to assist you from the planning stage through to officiating the funeral service. He will help you select any readings, music, and other aspects of the service that will be meaningful to you. He will also coordinate with the funeral director as well as staff and volunteers at First Presbyterian Church to ensure that your event runs smoothly.
RENTALS FEES:
- SANCTUARY RENTAL (3 HOURS): $100
- LOWER HALL RENTAL (3 HOURS): $100
- AUDIO VISUAL
- (TIER 1) AUDIO TECHNICIAN $100
- (TIER 2) VIDEO AND POWERPOINT $150
- (TIER 3) LIVESTREAM: $200
- CUSTODIAL STAFF: $100/FUNERAL OR $200/FUNERAL & RECEPTION[1]
- PIANIST/ORGANIST: ARRANGED WITH INDIVIDUAL
- MINISTER: $250 MON-THURS - $300 FRI-SUN[2]
- REFRESHMENTS: SEE ATTACHED
NEXT STEPS:
Now that you know what we offer please ask your funeral director to contact Marlene Weatherall in the office to enquire about the availability of our space. She can be reached at 705 445-4651 Monday to Friday between 9 am and 1 pm or via email at firstchurch@rogers.com
Your next call should go to Rev. Alton J. Ruff at 705 715-1333 or email revaltonruff@gmail.com to verify his availability. He keeps office hours Tuesday and Wednesdays from 10 am to 5 pm unless out on appointment, but you may call any time.
Rev. Alton will book a meeting with you and those you wish to bring with you to assist in planning the service. He will explain all the various aspects of a funeral service and help you make decisions that are best for you and your loved ones. It is our goal to assist you through this difficult time and to provide a warm and safe space to celebrate a life together.
[1] Payment made directly to individual
[2] Payment made directly to individual