Corps History

The Salvation Army's Etobicoke Temple is located on Kipling Avenue in Toronto's north-west quadrant, two miles north of the cross-town 401 Highway.

Facing on Kipling Avenue, the Temple is easily recognized by the 20-foot cross that testifies to the building's purpose. The Temple, set on raised ground well back from the street, is accessed by a deep circular driveway.

Paved parking for 60 cars behind the building maintains the building's visual integrity to those travelling on Kipling Avenue.

Opened on March 6, 1969, Etobicoke Temple was formed from the merger of the former Dovercourt Citadel, opened in 1887 in Toronto's west end, and Rexdale Citadel Corps, opened in 1960.

A display case along with the flags of the antecedent corps stands at the head of the main entrance and contains the trowel with which the Honourable Thomas Crawford, MPP, laid the cornerstone of the re-built Dovercourt Citadel on October 10, 1910.

Also displayed is a book containing the names of those who contributed to the building of Etobicoke Temple and plaques commemorating the memory of Dovercourt soldiers who served in two World Wars. In the west lobby is a library and information centre.

A separate Laotian-language Salvation Army congregation also operates at Etobicoke Temple.

The present structure combines the original Rexdale Corps building with new construction with the flat-topped pyramid auditorium and vaulted stage ceiling integrating the new construction with the existing structure.

The Temple's sanctuary is of typical Salvation Army design with the Mercy Seat or altar centrally located.

Two large 42-foot beams soaring 42 feet above the Mercy Seat create a cathedral that places man in true perspective and reminds him of the greatness of God and the vastness of His creation.

A large illuminated cross and reference to John: 3.16 (God so loved...) highlight the front wall.

The large platform is capable of seating 100 band and songster members. (Both units having achieved distinction among the ranks of Salvation Army international circles.)

At the back of our sanctuary, a partitioned over-flow area is also used for adult Bible classes and other small gatherings. The Salvation Army's doctrines and an early photo of the Army's Founder, William Booth, are displayed in the adjoining corridor.

Facilities for youth work include a Sunday School auditorium for intermediate and senior grads that can seat 150, a room for a teenage Bible class, and a nursery.

Willison Hall, built as a gymnasium, is presently housing our Family Services and Outreach programs.

Today we are a church with a congregation of approximately 350 made up of officers, soldiers, adherents and friends. We seek to serve the needs of the north and central Etobicoke and all are welcome to attend.