Visiting Ministry at Danforth Gospel Hall, ON

Danforth Gospel Hall, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (OB) 1891/1899-present

Contents

Itinerants

This list includes both preachers at Danforth, as well as conferences directly involving said assembly.

• Colin Anderson 1960
• J. Blackwood 1937
• Mr. Brown 1948
• J.A. Clarke 1952
• H. Coleman 1950
  • Northern Rhodesia
• J. Conaway 1929
• J.M. Davies 1937, 1949
• A. Delandrea 1952, 1956
• J. Dickson 1926
• W.P. Douglas 1926
• Hugh K. Downie 1935
• G. Duncan 1926
• F. Elliott 1947
• John Ferguson 1938
• Henry Fletcher 1950-1952, 1959
• Neil Fraser 1946, 1950-1951
• Gould Jr. 1930
• Gould Sr. 1930
• Dr. N. Hamilton 1950
• Dr. R.E. Harlow 1968
• James Gunn 1933, 1937-1939, 1949-1951, 1956
• Harold Harper 1947
• W.H. Hunter 1937
• Dr. S.L. Johnson 1968
• Lyndon Roth Hess 1948
• Donald Hunter 1946
• W.H. Hunter 1926
• Samuel Keller 1918
• David Kirk 1938, 1945, 1951
• George M. Landis 1948, 1950-1951, 1956
• Roy John Littleproud 1933
• David Boyd Long 1943, 1945-1946; 1968
• Harold G. Mackay 1938, 1947
• Forbes Macleod 1926
• James Marshall 1926, 1930
• Dr. Martin 1926
• William Matthews 1907
• Robert McClurkin 1956
• R. McCrory 1938-1939
• S. McEwen 1926
• D. McGeachy 1926
• S. McGeachy 1930
• W. Munro 1947
• D. Oliver 1926
• Peter Pell, Jr. 1937-1939, 1943, 1946-1948, 1950, 1956
• William Pell 1937-1938, 1943, 1949, 1950-1951, 1956
• George Rainey 1950
• Leslie Rainey 1949
• Gordon Reager 1948
• F.W. Rogers 1946
• J.J. Rouse 1931
• F.W. Schwartz 1950
• Leonard Sheldrake 1943, 1947
• W.G. Smith 1947
• Mr. Stewart 1929
• Ernest G. "Ernie" Tatham 1947
• Robert Telfer 1929
• Edwin J. Tharp 1926, 1932
• Hugh Thorpe 1936
• August Van Ryn 1947,1949
• John Walden 1952
• David Ward 1968
• T. Wilkie 1933
• T.E. Wilson 1968

Annual Conferences

1920's

1926

• OR 1926-5: Toronto, Ont. "The conference was as large as usual and perhaps the best for some years. Dr. Martin, D. Oliver, W.P. Douglas, D. McGeachy, S. McEwen, G. Duncan, J. Dickson, James Marshall, E.J. Thorp, and Forbes Macleod, from the among the thirty-one preachers present, bore the burden of the ministry, which had mostly to do with the qualifications of the overseer. S. McEwen continues meetings in Central Hall, D. Oliver in W. Toronto, James Marshall in Broadview, and W.H. Hunter in Swanwick Ave."

1929

• OR 1929-6: Toronto, Ont. "After the Conference, Br. J.A. Clarke continued in Central Hall for 10 days. Large attendance. G. Duncan spent two weeks in Pape Ave. Hall, J. Conaway in Swanwick, and S.C. Keller in Brock Ave. Gospel Hall."

1930's

1931

• OR 1931-2: Conference reports: "The Tillsonburg Convention was the largest ever held. Ministry was varied and fresh, and the Christians were happy as the result. Two professed to get saved through faith in Christ. Bro. Geo. Smith went to Straffordville for meetings after the Conference; Bro. J.J. Rouse to Swanwick Ave. Hall, Toronto."

• OR 1931-4: Toronto, Ont. "Annual Convention, April 3-5, in Massey Hall, corner of Victoria and Shuter Sts., except Friday morning meetings, which will be held in Junction, Brock Ave., Pape Ave., and Swanwick Gospel Halls at 9:30. Prayer meeting, Massey Hall, April 2, at 7:30 p.m., and Praise meeting, April 6, at 9 a.m. Address communications to Convention, 169 Lauder Ave."

1935

• AA 1935-6: Toronto: "The Easter Conferences in Central, Swanwick, Broadview, Brock, and Highfield Road Halls were well attended and helpful words were given by various brethren."

1937

• TBM 1937-5: "The Easter Conferences at Toronto were very good. Messrs. W.H. Hunter, H. McEwen, L. Sheldrake and J.M. Davies ministered the Word at Central, and Messrs. Will and Peter Pell, J.M. Davies, W.H. Hunter, J. Gunn and J. Blackwood ministered at Swanwick. The saints were encouraged and helped, and the ministry much appreciated."

1938

• Witness 1938-6: Toronto: "Easter conferences were well attended. The ministry was varied and helpful. Those ministering were:
  • Central Gospel Hall: F.W. Woods (Australia), J. Stewart, G. Gould, Sr.
  • Junction Hall: J. Waugh, J. Blackwood, W. Warke, G. Gould, Jr., T. Wilkie & Bro. Crawford.
  • Swanwick Ave. Hall: R. McCrory, Pell Bros., J. Gunn, Jr. R. McCrory continued with a series of meetings using charts on Revelation.
  • Highfield Gospel Hall: R. McCracken, R. Telfer, T. Smith, G. Johnson, J. Spreeman and G. Shivas.

1939

• Witness 1939-6: Toronto: "Large gatherings at Easter in Central Hall, when Messrs. Tilsley, McCrory, S. McEwen, P. Pell and Proudfoot gave helpful messages. At Olivet Hall, convention was encouraging. Christ-exalting ministry by various speakers. Easter Conference, South Broadview Hall, well attended. Ministry varied and helpful. D. McGeachy, W. Pinches, A. Joyce, A. Douglas, G. Shivas and others. During the Lord's Day afternoon meeting, as brother Pinches was ministering the Word, he suddenly grasped the desk before him and sank to the floor; "absent from the body and present with the Lord". At Swanwick Ave. Hall helpful ministry was given to a large number of Christians by Messrs. McCrory, P. Pell, Jr., J. Gunn and others. At Brock Ave. Hall, J. Blackwood, F. Watson, G. Duncan and A. Douglas ministered to a goodly company."

• Witness 1939-12: Toronto: "Thankgiving Conference large and good. Ministry by B.M. Nottage and P. Hoogendam, H.M. Harper had 3 weeks in Central Hall. A. Stenhouse giving accounts of work in Chile in several centres. H. McKay had Gospel effort in Swanwick Hall. C.E. Tatham had several weeks' meetings in Greenwood Hall, with blessing. Peter Hoogendam had a series of good meetings here in Gilead Hall, also in Maranatha. Dr. Northcote Deck had special meetings in Markham Tabernacle, Oct. 8-20. Addresses appreciated, blessing granted."

1940's

1943

• AA 1943-4: Toronto, Ont. "The following conferences will be held in Toronto at the time of the Easter holidays. Conference in connection with Brock Avenue, West Toronto and Bracondale assemblies will be held in Central High School of Commerce Auditorium, 570 Shaw St., between College and Harbord. Communications may be addressed to James Crawford, Sam Moore or Joseph Coleman in Toronto, Ontario. Conferences in connection with Pape Ave., Highfield Rd., and Broadview assemblies will be held in Eastern High School of Commerce, Pine and Chatham Aves. Correspondences may be addressed to John Robertson. The Annual conference will also be held in Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St., and in Swanwick Ave. Gospel Hall, 84 Swanwick Ave. Correspondence may be addressed for Central to Geo. W. Cunnington, 1021 Shaw St., and for Swanwick to James R. Farquharson, 771 Pape Ave. Visitors will be heartily welcomed and entertained at each of these conferences. Meetings morning, afternoon and evening on April 23 and 25. Meetings afternoon and evening on April 24. Prayer Meeting in West Toronto and Central Hall on Thursday evening at 7:30 and 7:45 respectively."

• L&L 1943-6: Toronto, Swanwick Ave., Gospel Hall: "Good Easter meetings and very helpful ministry. Speakers: D. Long, W. and P. Pell, and L. Sheldrake."

1944

• L&L 1944-3: Work in Canada: Toronto, Ont. "Central and Swanwick Assemblies purpose holding their annual Conference in Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St., E., on Friday, Saturday and Lord's Day, April 7-9, with prayer meeting on Thursday, 7:45 p.m. (Times listed) Usual arrangements for visitors. Correspondents: Geo. W. Cunnington, 1021 Shaw St., and R. Woodward, 23 Enderby Rd."

1945

• L&L 1945-2: Toronto, Canada: "Central and Swanwick Assemblies purpose holding their Annual Conference in Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St. E., on Friday, Saturday and Lord's Day, March 30, 31, April 1, with prayer meetings on Thursday 7:45 p.m. Meetings on Friday 10:30 a.m., 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Saturday 2:30 and 7:00 p.m. Lord's Day 10:00 a.m., 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Usual arrangements for visitors. Correspondents: G.W. Cunnington, 683 Eglinton Ave. East, and R. Woodward, 23 Enderby Rd."

1946

• AA 1946-2: Toronto, Ont. "The Annual conventions will be held during Easter Season April 19-21. Brock Avenue, West Toronto and Bracondale Assemblies will meet in Central High School of Commerce, 570 Shaw St. Pape Avenue, Highview Road and Broadview Ave. Assemblies will meet in the Eastern High School of Commerce, 16 Phin Ave. Central and Swanwick Assemblies will meet in Central Hall, 25 Charles St., E. A united Prayer meeting of the first six mentioned assemblies will be held in the Gospel Hall, 311 Brock Ave., on Thursday, April 18 at 7:30 P.M. Address communications: For West End, Mr. Joseph Coleman, 112 Spencer Ave., Toronto 3, Ont. For East End, Mr. John Robertson, 43 Howard St., Toronto 5, Ont. For Central, Mr. Geo. W. Cunnington, 683 Eglinton Ave., Toronto 12, Ontario."

• L&L & LOI 1946-4: Toronto, Ontario - "Central and Swanwick Assemblies purpose holding their Annual Conference in Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St., E., on Friday, Saturday and Lord's Day, April 19-21, with prayer meeting, Thursday 7:45 p.m. Meetings Friday 10:30 a.m.; 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Saturday 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Lord's Day 10:00 a.m.; 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Visitors cordially welcome. Correspondents: Geo. W. Cunnington, 683 Eglinton Ave. E and R. Woodward, 23 Enderby Rd."

• L&L & AA 1946-5: Toronto, Ont. "The annual Easter Conferences were largely attended. The Christians convening in the East and at Central High School of Commerce and those in the west end at the Central High School of Commerce received a variety of helpful ministry from Brethren Douglas, McCrory, McLeod, Shivas, Nugent, Bruce, McBain, Rae, Blackwood, Reager, Miller, Joyce, Patrizio, Gunn and others. At Central Hall, where Central and Swanwick assemblies united in conference, the word was ably ministered by D.B. Long, Neil Fraser, F.W. Rogers and P. Pell. At Olivet Hall on Good Friday, ministry was given by Edgar Ainslie and Sam Taylor."

• L&L & LOI 1946-6: Canada Conferences: Toronto, Ontario: "The Easter Conference of the Central Hall and Swanwick Assemblies, at Central hall, was a time of rich blessing to the many who attended. Peter Pell, Jr., Neil Fraser, David Long, and F.W. Rogers ministered the Word to crowded gatherings. At the closing Gospel Meeting, Peter Pell spoke at Swanwick; Norman Kion and David Long spoke at Central. Two professed salvation and others desired further help."

1947

• L&L 1947-2: Toronto, Ont. - "Central and Swanwick Assemblies purpose (D.V.) holding their Annual Conference in Central Hall, 25 Charles St., E., on Friday, Saturday and Lord's Day, April 4, 5 and 6, with prayer meeting Thursday 7:45 p.m. Meetings Friday 10:30 a.m., 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Saturday 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., Lord's Day 10:00 a.m., 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Visitors cordially welcome. Correspondents - George W. Cunnington, 683 Eglinton Ave. E., and R. Woodward, 23 Enderby Rd."
• L&L 1947-5: Toronto, Ont.: "Central and Swanwick Assemblies held their Annual Easter Conference in Central Hall... The following brethren ministered the Word: Messrs. W. Munro, P. Pell, A. Van Ryn, E. Tatham, W.G. Smith, L. Sheldrake and F. Elliott (England). The meetings were well attended and the ministry was exalting to Christ and of a searching nature. The fellowship and hospitality were enjoyed by all present. On Sunday evening W.G. Smith and W. Munro preached the Gospel in the Swanwick Ave., hall and P. Pell and A. Van Ryn preached in Central. Two young men confessed Christ as Savior."
• LOI 1947-6: Toronto, Ontario: Central-Swanwick Assemblies: George W. Cunnington: "The Central and Swanwick assemblies held their Annual Easter Conference in Central Hall, 25 Charles St., East, April 4-6. The following brethren ministered the Word: Messrs. W. Munro, P. Pell, A. Van Ryn, C.E. Tatham, W.G. Smith, L. Sheldrake and F. Elliott (England). The meetings were well attended and the ministry was Christ exalting and of a searching nature. The fellowship and hospitality was enjoyed by all present. On Sunday evening Mr. W.G. Smith and Mr. W. Munro preached the Gospel in the Swanwick Ave hall and Mr. P. Pell and Mr. A. Van Ryn in Central. Two young men were known to have confessed Christ as a result of the Gospel ministry."

1948

• L&L 1948-5: Peter Pell, Jr., after the Easter Conference visited Swanwick, and hopes to have meetings in Central Hall, beginning April 18."

1949

• AA 1949-3: Ontario, Toronto. Brock Ave., West Toronto, Bracondale, Lansing, Ascot: Central School of Commerce, 570 Shaw St. Address communications to Joseph Coleman. Pape Ave., Highfield, Broadview and Eglinton: Eastern High School of Commerce, 16 Phin Ave., corner of Chatham. No meeting Saturday morning. Address: John Robertson. Central and Swanwick Halls: Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St., E. No meeting Saturday morning. Address: Geo. W. Cunningham."
• L&L 1949-3: Toronto, Canada: "The Annual Conference of Central and Swanwick Assemblies will be held (D.V.) in Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St., E. on Friday, Saturday and Lord's Day, April 15-17... Correspondents: Geo. W. Cunnington & R. Woodword (sic)."
• AA 1949-5: Ontario, Toronto. "The annual conference of Central and Swanwick assemblies was well attended and a happy spirit prevailed. The ministry was of a very practical nature and an appeal was made to continue to walk in humility of spirit and godly fear. The following brethren were present to minister the word of God: J.M. Davies, Jas. Gunn, Wm. Pell, Leslie Rainey and August Van Ryn."
• L&L 1949-6: "The Annual Easter conference of Central and Swanwick Assemblies, Toronto, was held April 15-17. The following brethren were present to minister the Word of God: J.M. Davies, James Gunn, William Pell, Leslie Rainey and August Van Ryn. There was good ministry, good attendance and a happy spirit of fellowship."

1950's

1950

• L&L & LOI 1950-3: Toronto, Ontario: "The Annual Conference of Central and Swanwick Assemblies will be held (D.V.) in Central Gospel Hall, on Friday, Saturday and Lord's day, April 7-9. Prayer meeting Thursday 7:45. Meetings Friday 10:30, 2:30, 7:30; Saturday 2:30, 7:30; Lord's day 10:00, 2:30, 7:30. Cordial welcome to visitors. Correspondents: George W. Cunningham & R. Woodward."
• L&L 1950-5 & LOI 1950-6: Toronto, Ont. "The Annual Easter Conference, convened by Central and Swanwick assemblies, was well attended throughout, and the ministry of the Word was Christ exalting, searching and practical. The ministry was shared by Henry Fletcher, James Gunn, Dr. N. Hamilton, George Rainey, Neil Fraser, F.W. Schwartz, and H. Coleman of Northern Rhodesia. Last year, at Conference time, we were deeply saddened by the sudden homecall of our beloved brother George Cowan, and this year our hearts were deeply saddened by the sudden homecall of our beloved brother George Gould, a very great loss indeed to the people of God."

1951

• L&L & LOI 1951-3: Toronto, Ontario: "The annual conference of Central and Danforth (formerly Swanwick) assemblies will be held (D.V.) in Central Hall, 25 Charles Street East, on Friday, Saturday and Lord's Day, March 23-25. Prayer meeting Thursday 7:45 p.m. Order of meetings as follows: Fri. 10:30, 2:30, 7:30; Sat. 2:30, 7:30; Lord's Day: 10:00, 2:30, 7:30. Visitors cordially welcomed. Correspondents: G.W. Cunnington, 25 Divadale Dr., and R.L. Woodward, 23 Enderby Rd."
• L&L 1951-5: "Central and Danforth assemblies held their annual Easter conference in Central Gospel Hall, Mar. 23-25. H. Fletcher, N. Fraser, J. Gunn, D. Kirk, G. Landis and W. Pell shared in the ministry. The theme of the Conference centered around the Crosswork of our Lord Jesus Christ and our responsibilities to Him. Good attendance and all seemed to enjoy the happy Christian fellowship. The messages were recorded on a tape recorder for those unable to be present."

1952

• LOI 1952-3: Toronto: Danforth Gospel Hall & Central Gospel Hall: "The annual conference of Central and Danforth assemblies will be held, D.V., in Central Hall, 25 Charles Street East, on Fri., Sat., and Lord's Day, April 11-13, preceded by a prayer meeting Thursday at 7:45 p.m. (Order of meetings listed). Visitors are cordially welcomed. Correspondents: L.A. Rickard and R.L. Woodward. (Addresses listed)
• LOI 1952-6: Toronto: "Central and Danforth held their annual conference in Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St. E, April 11-13 with Brethren J.A. Clarke, J. Walden, P. Pell, W. Pell, H. Fletcher, and A. Delandrea ministering the Word. Mr. Clarke stayed on after the Conference and had several meetings in Central and one in the West Toronto Gospel Hall."

1956

• L&L 1956-5:
  • George M. Landis, Fayetteville, PA: "Recently I had a week of meetings in Glen Head, L.I., New York on Church truth; had a weekend in New Haven; and was one of the speakers at the Toronto Conference of Central, Danforth and Westmount assemblies. Tomorrow I leave for a week in Raleigh, N.Y., and then a week in Hinton, W. Va."
  • Toronto: "The annual Easter conference of the Central, Danforth and Westmount Assemblies was held in Central Gospel Hall, March 30 to April 1. The many, who attended enjoyed a rich feast of good things from the Word. The following brethren ministered: G. Landis, P. Pell, W. Pell, J. Gunn, R. McClurkin, A. Delandrea. The theme of the ministry united around the Glory of the Lord, and our responsibility to live in the Power of the Spirit so as to show forth His Glory."

1959

• L&L 1959-3: Toronto, Ont. "The annual conference of Central, Westmount and Danforth assemblies will be held (D.V.) in Central Gospel Hall.. on Mar. 27-29, preceded by a prayer meeting Thursday at 7:45 p.m. Visitors are cordially welcome. Correspondents: L.A. Rickard, Alex Bryans @ Rexford & R.L. Woodward."

1960's

1960

• L&L 1960-4: Toronto, Ont. "The annual conference of the central, Westmount and Danforth Assemblies will be held, in the will of the Lord, at the Central Gospel Hall... on Fri., Sat., and Lord's Day, April 15-17. This will be preceded by a prayer meeting Thursday evening at 7:45 P.M. Visitors are cordially welcomed."

1962

• L&L 1962-4: Toronto, Ont. "The annual conference of the Central, Westmount and Danforth assemblies will be held, D.V., in the Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles Street East, on Fri., Sat., and Lord's Day, April 20-22... Visitors are cordially welcome. Address correspondence to A.R. Cowan, L.A. Rickard and R.L. Woodward."

• WiS 1962-6: Toronto, Ont. "Recent Conference here reported very large, especially on the East Side of the city."

1963

• L&L 1963-3: Toronto, Ont. "The Annual Conference of the Central, Westmount and Danforth Assemblies will be held, D.V., in the Central Gospel Hall... on Friday, Saturday and Lord's Day, April 12-14, preceded by a prayer meeting Thursday at 7:45 P.M. Correspondents: L.A. Rickard, A.R. Cowan or R.L. Woodward."

1965

• L&L 1965-3 & LOI 1965-1: Toronto, Ont. "The annual conference of the Central, Westmount and Danforth Assemblies will be held, D.V., in the Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles Street East, on Fri-Sun, April 16-18, preceded by a prayer meeting on Thursday, 7:45 P.M. Visitors cordially welcome. Correspondents: L.A. Rickard, A.R. Cowan or R.L. Woodward."

1966

• LOI 1966-3: Conference of Central, Westmount and Danforth Assemblies Toronto: "Annual conference of the Central, Westmount and Danforth assemblies to be held in the Central Gospel Hall... April 8-10, preceded by a prayer meeting Thursday at 7:45 p.m. Visitors cordially welcome. Correspondents: L.A. Richard, A.R. Cowan & R.L. Woodward."

1967

• LOI 1967-3: Toronto, Ont., Mar. 24-25: "Annual conference of the Central, Danforth and Westmount assemblies, Friday and Saturday, March 24 and 25, at the East York Collegiate, corner of Coxwell and Cosburn Aves., East York, Toronto, Ont. Meetings: 10:30 a.m., 2:30 and 7 p.m. Prayer meeting on Thursday, March 23, at the Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St. E., Toronto, at 8 p.m. Correspondent: Reynold Woodward, 127 Furnival Rd., Toronto 16, Ontario. Please note new location this year."

1968

• LOI 1968-4: Easter, Toronto, Ontario: "Annual Easter Conference of the Central, Danforth, Don Valley, Greenwood, and Westmount assemblies to be held as follows: Thursday, April 11, 8:00 p.m., Prayer Meeting at Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St. E. Friday and Saturday, April 12 and 13: 10:00 a.m., 2:30 and 7:00 p.m., and also Sunday, April 14 at 2:30 p.m., at East York Collegiate, Coxwell and Cosburn Aves. Sunday morning and evening services will be held by the respective assemblies. Brethren expected: Dr. R.E. Harlow, Dr. S.L. Johnson, Mr. D. Long, Mr. D. Ward and Mr. T.E. Wilson. Address correspondence to Reynold Woodward, 127 Furnival Rd., Toronto 16, Ont."

1969

• MiF 1969-3/4: "The Annual Easter Conference of the Bendale-Central-Danforth-Don Valley-Greenwood-Westmount assemblies will be held as follows:
  • • Thursday, April 3 at 8:00 p.m., Prayer meeting in Central Gospel Hall, 25 Charles St. East
    • Friday and Saturday, April 4-5 at 10:00 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and also Sunday, April 6 at 2:30 p.m. in East York Collegiate, York and Cosburn Avenues.
  • Please note that Sunday morning and evening services will be held by the respective assemblies. Speakers are Dr. S.L. Johnson, Mr. F. McKenzie, Mr. J. Smart and Dr. J. Naismith. Correspondence may be addressed to Mr. Reynold Woodward, 127 Furnival Road, Toronto 16, Ontario."

1970's

1973

• WiS 1973-6: "Conferences: Recent gatherings have been reported good, with several servants on hand to minister the Word and the Gospel, also Bible Readings. Toronto (East Side) very large, West Side smaller."

Other Reports

1930's

1930

• TBM 1930-3: "S. M'Geachy had good meetings in Toronto at Swanwick Hall."

• OR 1930-9: Toronto, Ont. "Three tents are being operated by the assemblies here. In connection with Central Hall, Br. John T. Dickson and W.J. Glasgow have a large tent in which they are encouraged by good attendance, although they had to move the tent once. Brn. Gould, Senior and Junior, are in the Swanwick Hall tent, and Br. W. Gillespie is also in a tent in the East End of the city."

• OR 1930-11: Philadelphia, Pa. "Br. Jno. Watt had meetings here, later going to Pawtucket, R.I. Br. H.G. McEwen is in West Philadelphia. Mr. Jas. Marshall of this place gave a course of Prophetic Lectures in Toronto, Ont., in the Swanwick and West Toronto Halls. Good attendance."

1932

• TBM 1932-11: Missionary Intelligence: "Our brother Edwin J. Tharp's (of China) address in Canada is now Apt. 83, 477 Sherbourne, Toronto. Mr. Tharp writes: 'I have recently been enjoying happy fellowship with Central Hall, Olivet, Swanwick and Gilead Halls in this city, and am looking forward to minister in several of the other assemblies also. It is most heartening and refreshing to realize that the Spirit of Christ is radiating toward both saint and sinner from these gatherings. During August, I had the joy of being at the Sea Cliff Conference, and also of ministering in the Richmond Hill, Hartsdale, and Palisades Park Assemblies, all in New York."

1933

• AA 1933-12: Ontario. Toronto, "Messrs. Peter and Will Pell have had two weeks' ministry meetings afternoon and evening in Central Hall, with encouragement in the number who attended. Mr. R. Telfer is having meetings in the Junction Hall and Messrs. Wilkie and Gunn in Swanwick Ave."

• TBM 1934-1: Swanwick Avenue, Toronto: "Brethren Wilkie and Gunn have had well-attended meetings in this hall."

1935

• TBM 1935-2: New Years Day Conference at Hackensack, N.J., USA was one of the largest and best yet held. A large representation of New Jersey and New York Assemblies. John Ferguson, W.S. Cameron, H. Webber and Fescho gave profitable ministry. H.K. Downie had good meeetings in Hamilton during December and later in Toronto. Hopes to be in Swanwick Hall, Toronto, during February."

• L&L 1935-4: "H.K. Downie had good meetings in Swanwick Hall, Toronto, and now is in the Gospel Hall, Birchcliffe, Ont."

• TBM 1935-4: "H.K. Downie had a series of good meetings in Swanwick Hall, Toronto, and later in Birchcliff, Ontario."

1936

• AA 1936-6: Guelph: "After three weeks in Swanwick Hall, Toronto, Mr. Hugh Thorpe visited for a few weeks the little assembly in Lansing, and is now in Guelph."

1938

* L&L 1938-10: David Kirk: "Have been on a visit during the past five weeks in Ontario, ministering in Swanwick Hall, Toronto, Stratford, Stirling, Trenton, and now at Lang, where I am conducting two weeks' meetings in the gospel. The hall was full on Lord's Day, and some unsaved attending every night. We are hoping for God's hand in genuine conversions. On Lord's Day (18th), commence special meetings in Lakefield (D.V.). Interest there in the gospel since the opening of the new hall has decidedly improved, and so the Christians are eagerly looking that during this campaign the hall may become the birthplace of precious souls for heaven. After these purposed meetings, in the will of the Lord, I return again to Nova Scotia. Sept. 13, 1938.

1939

• Witness 1939-1: Toronto: "Ministry of H. Isaacs proved very helpful during meetings in Olivet Hall, and in theatre, John Ferguson had fairly good meetings in Swanwick Gospel Hall, but found unsaved difficult to reach."

1940's

1945

• L&L 1945-11: "David Kirk, Stirling, Ont. This month finds me around the home assemblies, and this provides plenty to do, as there are four or five assemblies within easy reach. Peterborough lies about 50 miles to the northwest, and there over this weekend I hope to help Messrs. John Smart and Ernest Tatham in a Young People's Rally, besides giving help at the little country assembly of Bobcaygeon, where there is to be the Annual Conference this weekend. After the Canadian Thanksgiving Conference in Montreal we begin the Fall work with a series of meetings in Swanwick Hall, Toronto."

1946

• AA 1946-1: Toronto: "Bre. Albert Joyce and D. Howard are having special meetings in Bracondale Hall. Bre. George Gould and T. Wilkie are holding forth in Brock Ave., at time of going to press. The brethren in Swanwick Hall speak of happy meetings with brother David Long."

• L&L 1946-2: Canada, Toronto, Swanwick Gospel Hall: "Our brother D.B. Long of Sherbrooke, Que. is holding a series of meetings for young believers. Expects also to visit Central and Greenwood Halls."

• LOI 1946-5: James Gunn, Midland, Ont. "Bro. Gunn spent three weeks in Midland ministering to the saints from a model of the tabernacle. The Lord's people were appreciative and showed it by their attendance. Bro. Gunn also enjoyed a short visit with his former home assembly, Swanwick Hall, Toronto, taking the ministry meeting on Fri. evening and remaining over Lord's Day."

• LOI 1946-6: D.B. Long, Sherbrooke, QC: "As the time of our departure from these shores draws nearer the rush seems to get worse. There are so many things, both great and small, to be seen to that one is almost overwhelmed. However, God is able and we lean hard on Him.
  • During the months of Dec., Jan., and Feb., I had the joy of giving some help at the Emmaus Bible School and was cheered by the evident interest in the Word shown by so many young people who are often blamed for being worldly. While teaching there I had meetings for two weeks each in Central, Swanwick, Greenwood, and Olivet assemblies in ministry of the Word and felt that God gave help in applying the truth to His people.

&& Since then I spent a weekend in Detroit for the closing of the classes which have been carried on all winter in company with Mr. John Smart at Central Hall. Attendances were large and sustained right through, with the last night one of the largest. Young and old attended in about equal numbers and all assemblies in the district were represented. It is my opinion that consecutive study of this kind is much needed and leaves a deeper mark on the saints than sporadic and disconnected meetings.

• • The week before this I was at the Missionary conference in Detroit and a stirring time it proved to be. The hall was packed to the doors, with many in side rooms and standing round the walls. As well as this, there was an overflow meeting downstairs and even at that some were unable to get inside. Brethren Hill, Reid, Brookes, Rogers and Long represented India, Santo Domingo, Philippines, Africa, while brother Smart wound up the conference with an exhortation along practical lines which touched many hearts. We trust that fruit will be seen from this in years to come.
  • We wish we could do more of this kind of work but Angola calls and we feel we should be on our way as soon as arrangements are complete. It looks as though this will not be long now and we would ask for your continued prayers that God might guide us very clearly, and that He might be honored in our lives. I go to Toronto for the Easter conferences and from there direct to New York to fix things up with the Portuguese consul while having a week's meetings in the metropolitan area."

• LOI 1946-12: Ontario Briefs: Toronto: "Mr. Andrew Douglas still has his chart up in the Highfield Rd. Hall. The attendance has not been large but has been appreciative. Bro. Donald Hunter left Hamilton conference for Central Hall, Toronto, where he purposed visiting and ministering to the saints. He also visited the saints in Swanwick Hall."

1947

• LOI 1947-1: Mr. David Miller of Barrie, Ontario spent a weekend with the Lord's people in Waverly. His visit was appreciated. Brother A.P. Gibbs spent a week at Swanwick Assembly, Toronto, ministering the Word of the Lord to His people. Brother Harold Harper was also at Swanwick and Central as well as some of the other halls in the city of Toronto."

• LOI 1947-11: Harold G. Mackay, 622 Forrest Ave., Greensboro, N.C.: "Brother McKay (sic) has commenced meetings in the Swanwick Hall, Toronto, Ontario. He has been much used of God in past efforts and they are looking for a time of refreshing in their assembly at this time."

• AA 1947-11: Ont. Toronto: "Brethren Frank Pearcey and Douglas Howard are having special meetings in Highfield Rd., Assembly in Toronto. Brother Harold Mackay had a month's meetings in Swanwick."

• LOI 1947-12:
  • Harold G. Mackay, 622 Forest St., Grensboro (sic), N.C.: "The work in the Piedmont goes along very nicely, with much to encourage our hearts and cause praise to ascend to our God. Also much to pray about, as there are always problems connected with His service, and many yet to be reached with the Gospel. In Greensboro things go well, and I hear of another one led to the Lord by brother Bousfield, since I came North. At present I am in Canada, teaching at the Toronto Emmaus Bible School and conducting a series of Gospel meetings at the Swanwick Ave. Hall at night. The work at the school is very splendid; it is a thrilling sight to see almost 170 Christian young people intensely interested in the study of the Bible and eager to learn more of the Lord and His Word and ways. Real wisdom is being manifested by the leaders of this school in assisting these young people and I feel certain the ultimate end will be much blessing to the assembly testimony. The meetings at Swanwick are just in their first week, and there is a fairly good interest. The Lord's people are hearty and happy and seem concerned about the lost. Some unsaved are attending and we look for souls to be saved soon."
  • "During October brother Mackay had four weeks Gospel meetings in Swanwick Ave. Gospel Hall, Toronto, Ont. God was pleased to honor His Word and three professed to be saved. Before starting in Swanwick he had a week for ministry in Central Gospel Hall."

1948

• LOI 1948-2: S.M. Sommacal: Lynden (sic) Hess made a brief visit to this city, and had meetings in Central, Swanwick and Westmoreland Halls."
• LOI 1948-3: James Gunn, Midland, Ont.: "Two weeks, starting Feb. 1: Pall Mall, Ont., Canada. George Landis visited Central Gospel Hall and Swanwick Hall in January. Bro. Sidney Porteous from the old land is visiting in Toronto and had meetings in Beacondale Hall. The assembly at Yorkshire St., Guelph, Ont., has been encouraged by week-end visits from brethren McCrory, McClurkin and Roberts in past months."
• L&L 1948-4: "Swanwick Gospel Hall: Were greatly encouraged by George Landis' meeting, which was followed by visit from Reager and Brown."
• LOI 1948-4: George M. Landis, Fayetteville, Pa.: "For the month of January, I was teaching in Emmaus Bible School in Toronto, and speaking at the following Gospel halls in that city: Central, Swanwick, Westmoreland, Markham, Olivet and Gilead. It is a real pleasure to see the spiritual progress of the young people we taught one and two years ago at Emmaus. To think of what it will mean to have a generation of these bright, keen and consecrated young people laboring at home and abroad. I believe God has raised up Emmaus School for these last days when the fields are so vast and the laborers are so few. I will be laboring around home for five weeks, and then leave (D.V.) for the Pacific Northwest."

1950's

1950

• L&L 1950-4: "Geo. M. Landis of Fayetteville, Pa., was teaching in Emmaus in Toronto during March. During that period he had meetings in Westmoreland Avenue, Olivet, Gilead, Central, Swanwick in Toronto, and West Street Hall in Orillia, and Lorne Avenue Hall in Trenton."

1952

• LOI 1952-2: Danforth Gospel Hall, Toronto: Reynold Woodward: "A five week gospel campaign conducted by Br. A. Dellandrea has just been concluded. The Lord worked mightily. Meetings were held seven nights a week, preceded by a week of prayer. Well over 20 professed faith in Christ, among whom were many adults as well as teenage young people. Some had never before heard the gospel while others had been the object of much prayer. The saints have learned a little of the truth of Mark 9:29, their borders have been enlarged and their praise is, "To God be the glory, great things HE hath done!"

1960's

1960

• LOI 1960:7/8: A. Johnston @ Danforth: "At a farewell service for the Dr. Ross Woodward family the hall was filled with friends from assemblies throughout the city. Dr. Woodward spoke briefly of their desire to be in the Lord's will as they return to Africa after an absence of almost a year and Mr. Colin Anderson gave a short word of ministry. The Woodwards sailed from New York on May 5."

1966

• LOI 1966-10: Children's Meetings Well Attended, Danforth, Toronto, Ont. "Recent meetings in the Danforth Gospel Hall, Toronto, Ont. with Ernest Sprunt of St. Catherines were very well attended, with 250 children present on the final night. Mr. Sprunt had smaller but interesting meetings in Glen Head, N.Y. and at the Olney Gospel Hall in Philadelphia, Pa. He was expecting to go to Flint, Mich. for four nights of ministry and two weeks of children's meetings."

1970's

1971

• T&T 1971-9: "Goodwood, Ont.: L. Steers and H. Virgint (brethren from Toronto) tried gospel meetings here with a little encouragement."

1990's

1992

LOI 1993-10: Toronto, Ontario: "On Dec. 13, 1992, the assembly at Central Gospel Hall celebrated the Lord's Supper for the last time. Central was mid-wife to a number of other Toronto assemblies through the years and the original home of Emmaus Bible School. While the assembly was winding down, God was planting the seeds of a new work.

Central Gospel Hall is now the home of Sanctuary, a ministry developing along two distinct but mutually supportive pathways. The building itself will become a safe place where the wounded souls of the neigboring communities may come for a variety of supportive ministries, touching their spiritual and temporal needs. The population is extremely diverse with the poor, the elderly, immigrants, substance abusers and homosexuals being a few of the most evident.

We envision the hall eventually becoming a shared home base from which Christians with a burden to fulfill our great commission may do so, reaching out into any of a dozen distinct communities in this cosmopolitan city. Christians who desire to serve in overseas missions would find this inner city situation a wonderful opportunity for training and experience, while still having the benefits of living in a familiar culture.

Sanctuary is being guided by a steering committee of Paul Abrahams (Danforth Gospel Hall), Dr. Ted Kay (Vice-President of MSC Canada) and Greg Paul (Richvale Bible Chapel)."

Also See

• Who's Who at Danforth Gospel Hall, ON

Sources

• Assembly Annals
  • 1933-12; 1935-6; 1936-6; 1943-4; 1946:1-2; 1947-11; 1949-3,5; 1950-2
• The Believers Magazine
  • 1930-3; 1932-11; 1935:2,4; 1937-5
• Letters of Interest
  • 1946:4-6,12; 1947:1,6,11-12; 1948:2-4; 1950-6; 1951-3; 1952:2-3.6; 1960:7-8; 1965-4; 1966:3,10; 1967:3; 1968-4
• Light & Liberty
  • 1935-4; 1938-10; 1943:6; 1944-3; 1945:2,11; 1946:2,4-6; 1947:2,5; 1948:4-5; 1949:3; 1950:3-5; 1951:3,5; 1956-5; 1959-3; 1960-4; 1962-4; 1963-3; 1965-3
• Ministry in Focus
  • 1969:3-4
• Our Record
  • 1926-5; 1929:3,6; 1930:9,11; 1931:2,4; 1933-4
• Truth & Tidings
  • 1971-9
• Witness
  • 1938-6; 1939:1,6,12
• Words in Season
  • 1962-6;1965-8; 1973-6