A few days ago, I shared two photos of the Aurora United Church on social media as a means of comparison—one from 2013 and another showing a southward view of the new development complex today. Some felt that my comparison was misleading, yet they overlooked the fact that the new church’s footprint extends all the way to the adjacent plaza on the north side, effectively covering what was once the church’s parking lot.
Having photographed Aurora’s landscape for over 12 years, I often revisit completed developments around town and am always struck by how I can no longer capture the same view—because I find myself standing in front of a brick wall. The scale of the new church and the adjacent retirement complex is massive, and the view that once included the church parking lot has been replaced by that very brick wall of the retirement section of the development, which I often face when capturing other developments. Unfortunately, I don’t have a detailed photo gallery of the former church to draw a direct comparison. Who would have thought that a church could go up in flames and be gone just like that?
The comparison photos have stirred a wave of emotions on social media, especially a profound sense of loss—not just for the piece of history that has disappeared, but for the character of the place itself. While some embrace the development, others mourn what has been lost. These feelings are deeply personal and inherently subjective because everyone experiences and processes change differently, shaped by their own memories, experiences, and values.
What one person sees as progress or a fresh start might be perceived by another as a loss—a loss of familiarity, history, or connection. Our emotional responses to change are influenced by our personal connections to a place, our history with it, and how we view the future. That’s why emotions surrounding development, loss, and change can vary so widely—what is meaningful to one person might not hold the same significance for another.
Many in our community had a personal connection to the church that tragically burned down on April 11, 2014. As I read through the comments, I recognize range of emotions—there are those who celebrate the change and those who feel a deep sense of grief over what is gone. And that is okay.
Regardless, I believe the new church and retirement complex will serve the community well. While I’m not sure when the project will be completed, this is the current state of the site as we approach the 11th anniversary of the fire. Below is a photo gallery of the Aurora United Church construction site, showcasing views from all directions.
Aurora United Church, 2013
Wow.
I left Aurora back in the early ’70’s but my parents stayed there till their passing. They (we) were very involved in the church, my father being in the choir since I could remember, and also very involved in seasonal and permanent decoration. He also did a stained glass window I believe that sadly didn’t survive the fire. So I have many many memories of the old church and was obviously sad to hear of it’s burning.
However, my understanding is that the facility has been rebuilt to include housing and various social services as well as providing a place of worship. I see this as truly fulfilling Christian values, providing more than merely a place for communal reflection but also support for those in need. So yes it’s no longer what it once was, but it is perhaps much more. Congratulation and thanks to those who had a vision for the future. Truly sharing Christian values and ethos. Bravo United Church of Aurora, bravo.