Minto Mural

Overlooking Minto's curved staircase and illuminated by the cathedral windows stands our magnificent mural. Entitled "Blessed to Be a Blessing", the mural was painted by artist Gus Froese who has been a member of Minto United Church since 1966.

As worshippers enter the sanctuary, this beautiful depiction of Minto's heritage, hopes and dreams greets them with its rich colours and religious symbols. The title of the mural originates from the Bible in Genesis 12:1-3 where God makes the promise: "I will bless you" (rays of light descend and strike the prism) "so that you will be a blessing" (rays of light are diffused in the prism and pass over the people, the Bible and the churches.)

The unfolding of God's dreams and visions for this congregation is represented through a kaleidoscope of symbols. We are sustained with God's grace through the sacramental elements of bread and cup, wheat and grapes. Also prominently depicted in the mural is the crest of The United Church of Canada. Our denomination has always determined to be a strong force of God's presence, love and inclusivity as it ministers to all God's people.

Since its beginning in 1912, Minto has been richly blessed with differing people of the Family of God, each contributing their own unique God-given gifts and talents. Hanging on the wall near Minto's historical display case is a photograph of the congregation's first Sunday School picnic. With wagons lined up ready to leave the church, a banner over one of the wagons proudly proclaims "Watch Us Grow.' From that prairie scene to the little white church to the construction of a larger sanctuary in 1955 as well as the church's expansion and renovations in 1992, God's dream of growth and outreach continues to unfold. Not only has the building expanded, but as several rural churches gradually closed their doors, Minto has welcomed members from seven rural charges; the seven stalks of wheat symbolize this. Over the years, the congregation has been blessed with people from Mount Pleasant, Baildon, Tuxford-Huron, Boharm, Quincy-Bevitt Mission, Knox-Grayburn and Wesley.

This mural is dedicated to the glory of God and to the generations of families and individuals who have worked and witnessed so eloquently to fulfill God's dream for His Church. As we celebrate Minto's rich history, it is our prayer that all those who pass through its doors will discover that they too, have been "Blessed to be a Blessing".