Rev. Lauren Hodgson

Lauren joined KRU as minister in June 2024 and is excited to be journeying with this vibrant faith community. Lauren is an ordained United Church minister who served as Lead Minister at St. Matthew's United in Toronto from 2012-2023 and most recently worked for the United Church's property arm, the United Property Resource Corporation (UPRC) where she was Director of Church and Community Partnership from 2021-2024. During her time with St. Matthew’s Lauren accompanied the community of faith along a property redevelopment process, sparking a keen interest for her in congregational transformation and change management, as well as how property can contribute to church mission and ministry. Lauren graduated with an Honours BA from Queen’s University in political studies and art history, and a Master of Divinity from Emmanuel College at the University of Toronto.

Lauren has extensive experience across The United Church of Canada, both regionally and denominationally, including serving on the Comprehensive Review Task Group, and supporting new ministry development and leadership through the Edge Network. She lives in Toronto with her wife, Sarah (who is also a United Church minister), and their daughter, Ruby. 

Finn Parks - Children & Youth Program Lead

Finn Parks (they/them), is originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Finn moved to Toronto in 2022 and is currently studying French Horn Performance at the University of Toronto. Finn is a long-time member of the United Church of Canada and has been a volunteer and employee with several united churches working with children and youth. Most recently Finn was the Program Coordinator for The GO Project’s GO Beyond Summer Program, a faith based, social justice overnight youth camp. When Finn's not working, they enjoy relaxing with their roommate Hazel, exploring the city, and crocheting!

Eric MacKeracher - Director of Music

Eric has been the Music Director at Kingston Road United Church since September 2000. Eric is an active member in the Greater Toronto music community providing private lessons and master classes to many. He sings tenor in both the Elmer Iseler Singers and the Amadeus Choir. Eric graduated from the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto and continues his studies in both piano and voice.