Jesus said “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. John 15:5
The image of the branch comes to us with an invitation to share connection with a common trunk from which we all gain life and nourishment. As Jesus describe the kingdom of heaven, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone planted in a field. It’s one of the smallest seeds. However, when it has grown, it is taller than the garden plants. It becomes a tree that is larger enough for birds to nest in its branches” (Matt 13:31-32).
Staff
The Rev. Michelle Owens
Rev. Michelle Owens has been serving as White Oaks United Church’s congregational minister since January 2022. Rev. Michelle is a Diaconal Minister in the United Church of Canada, and has previously served in congregational ministry, as denominational staff and the principal of a theological school. She is often accompanied by a puppet in worship or children’s ministry. Questions about faith, the process of joining White Oaks United, prayer requests and other inquiries are all welcomed by Rev. Michelle by phone 519 681 3229 or email owens@whiteoaksunitedchurch.ca. We feel blessed that she has been called to share her gifts, experience, energy and creativity with us.
Beth Wood – Administrative Assistant
Beth originally hails from Sarnia, Ontario where she spent most of her early years. She grew up in the United Church, attending Sunday School and singing in both the youth and the senior choirs. She moved to London 11 years ago and shortly after joined our church. She recently answered God’s call to serve at our church. She is on the worship committee and sings in the choir. Beth brings a broad range of talents to the position and will be your first contact during office hours.
OFFICE HOURS Tuesday 9 – 1 pm, Thursday 9-noon, Friday 9-noon
Kathy Harris – Nursery Care Provider
Kathy Harris has been a member of White Oaks United Church for more than 20 years, and has spent most of that time as a member of our Sunday School team. She is making a switch to become our nursery care provider. She is a registered early childhood educator with 25 yrs of experience and has worked exclusively for London Bridge child card services. She is currently the mentor Director for Huron Heights Early Childhood Education Centre where she leads the team of 30 educators. She is also a first aid instructor with the Canadian Red Cross. We welcome Kathy to her new position starting November 6th.
Music
Co-music directors Carol Schulze and Laurie McAndrew have been members at, and have shared their musical passion with the White Oaks United Church congregation for over 30 years.
Council
The Church Council functions to oversee the life and activities of White Oaks United Church, and to assure that these reflect the mission of the church. The council consists of Committee members, a Chairperson, a representative of the Board of Trustees, the Church Treasurer and president of the United Church Women. The Minister attends all Council meetings, providing spiritual council and leadership.
If you have a question for a person of the Council or require information regarding the management or governance of White Oaks United Church please use the contact information below.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
| Rev. Michelle Owens | Diaconal Minister | owens@whiteoaksunitedchurch.ca | 519-681-3229 |
| Beth Wood | Administrative Assistant | churchoffice@whiteoaksunitedchurch.ca | 519-681-3229 |
| Heather McLean | Chair of Council | mclean.ireland@sympatico.ca | 519-439-9750 |
| John Schulze | Vice-Chair of Council | johnandcarolschulze@gmail.com | 519-641-4723 |
| Lorraine Swanson & Gosse VanOosten | Pastoral Care & Helping Ministries | swansdelor@gmail.com gosselin_nan@hotmail.com | 519-520-3516 |
| Kathy Harris | Sunday School | kathyharris74@gmail.com | 519-451-0055 |
| Dianne Waite | A.A. Group | churchoffice@whiteoaksunitedchurch.ca | 519-685-7393 |
| Brenda Keasey-Harter | Scouts, Beavers and Cubs Group Administrator | squeezemeharter@rogers.com | 226-688-4844 |
| Carin Whittal | Church Treasurer | treasurer@whiteoaksunitedchurch.ca | 591-681-3229 |
| VON | mevonsmart@von.ca | 519-659-2273 ext22267 |
White Oaks United Church 