Minister: Rev. Diane Mugambi
Rev. Diane Mugambi serves as the minister of Humbercrest United Church, bringing a deep pastoral heart, a global perspective, and a passion for building inclusive, Spirit-filled communities. Originally from Kenya, Rev. Diane brings the richness of East African Christian tradition, combined with a deep appreciation for intercultural ministry in the Canadian context. With experience in both urban and rural congregations, they have served faithfully across diverse settings, always with a focus on justice, compassion, and spiritual growth.
A lifelong learner, Rev. Diane is currently pursuing a PhD in Development Studies, exploring the intersection of faith, community resilience, and social transformation. Her ministry is grounded in a contextual theology, hospitality, and liberation.
At Humbercrest United Church, Rev. Diane walks alongside a vibrant Church Council, working towards a multigenerational congregation, offering leadership in worship, pastoral care, and outreach. One where people of all ages are welcomed, valued, and engaged. They are particularly passionate about intergenerational worship, affirming ministry, and walking with people through life’s transitions from baptisms to memorials.
In her words, “I believe church is not only a sacred space for worship, but a community where people find belonging, healing, and courage to live out love in action.”
Rev. Diane is also a committed advocate for ecumenical and intercultural dialogue, and brings lived experience as both a newcomer to Canada and a bridge-builder in faith communities.
Administrator: Chris Higgins
In 2021, Chris Higgins retired from the Toronto District School Board, after 29 years as a teacher, and published a book about the Humber River called, “Riverstoryz.” Besides writing, he enjoys hiking, cycling, cooking and music. He and his family live a short distance from the river and its wonderful trails. In the summer of 2022, Chris became the administrator at Humbercrest United Church, where he feels right at home in a community of welcoming, forward-looking people.
Music Director: Gregory Walshaw
Gregory is a composer, conductor, and organist based in Brantford, Ontario. Prior to coming to Humbercrest United, he was Music Director at St. Andrew’s United in Brantford and Laidlaw Memorial United Church in Hamilton. His path within church music began at the age of ten as a chorister at the Cathedral Church of the Redeemer, Calgary. The choir was broadcast on CBC Radio, performed with orchestras, and sang at Westminster Abbey and Canterbury Cathedral. He has presented recitals around southern Ontario. As an accompanist, he has worked with a wide range of choirs in Southern Ontario including the Brantford Children’s Choir, Music Alive, The McMaster University Choir, The Renaissance Singers, and the Edison Singers. He is a regular performer with Arcady, having appeared as a singer, pianist, organist, harpsichordist, composer, conductor, and actor.
Gregory holds a Bachelor of Music (organ) from McMaster University, and a Master of Sacred Music (composition) from Emmanuel College in the University of Toronto. He has presented academic papers at conferences in the United States and Canada and his compositions have been published by the Royal Canadian College of Organists and GIA Publications.
Gregory has lived in Hamilton, Kitchener, Brantford, Yellowknife, Los Angeles, and Calgary. In Calgary, he worked in theatre with Alberta Theatre Projects and Theatre Calgary. While in Los Angeles, he worked with producer Christine La Monte at Paramount Studios. From 1998 to 2005, he was the Artistic Director of the Alchemist Theatre in Hamilton.
Evening Custodian: Besnik Gjunkshi
Besnik Gjunkshi is our very reliable and friendly evening custodian. Four evenings a week he can be found either monitoring the East Door or taking care of the grounds. Besnik and his wife own the wonderful Europasta, which provides catering to many Humbercrest events.
Cleaners: North Star Cleaning Service
The stellar staff of North Star recently joined us to keep the building looking and smelling fresh at all times. From the sanctuary to the Friendship Room, East Hall to Wall Hall, and in every room and space, Humbercrest is being well looked after. Thanks North Star!