Core Values

1. Rooted in the Gospel

Jesus is our source of life. We abide in Him through Scripture, prayer, and worship, trusting that real growth comes from staying connected to Christ.

2. Planted in Our Neighbourhood

We are not a church that happens to meet in South Etobicoke — we are a church for South Etobicoke. We listen, serve, and show up with humility and care.

3. Beauty That Points Beyond Itself

We believe beauty opens hearts and tells the truth. Through the arts and creativity, we engage our community in ways that invite reflection, conversation, and hope.

4. Life Together

We value presence over performance and relationship over production. The Branch is a place of shared meals, shared stories, and shared lives.

5. Growing to Be Sent

We gather to be formed and scattered to be faithful — in our work, homes, relationships, and public life.

What to expect on Sundays

Our services are laid back. Dress casual, be comfortable and feel at home.

Our worship is intimate and expressive. The music is modern with traditional hymns occasionally thrown into the mix.

Our sermons are practical. Our services are about an hour long and the message is meant to edify, inspire, and provide practical applications for daily life.

We take community seriously. After service, please join us downstairs for food, fellowship and refreshments.

PASTOR

Arthur Wachnik

Pastor Arthur brings over 25 years of pastoral leadership, teaching, and evangelism to The Branch. Beginning his career as a dedicated youth pastor (Toronto YFC), Arthur developed a deep-rooted passion for preaching the Word and discipling the next generation. As he transitioned into the role of Arts Pastor, his ministry broadened significantly, allowing him to reach and teach congregations of all ages. For 14 years, he served in this capacity at Church on the Queensway, where he produced The Toronto Passion Play and utilized creative avenues to share the Gospel.

Driven by both a local and global vision, Arthur’s calling has taken him around the world on missions and across the province through Upper Room Arts, an organization he founded to help churches effectively reach their communities through storytelling and artistic excellence.

Arthur and his wife, Ester, along with their four sons and new daughter-in-law, are incredibly excited to plant their roots and serve the south Etobicoke area. Whether he is delivering a message from the pulpit, connecting with the neighborhood, or out riding his motorcycle, Arthur’s heart is to see lives transformed. He looks forward to witnessing all that God has in store for The Branch.

Let’s grow together