Thursday, June 3, 2021

E-ssentials: Pastoral Message for the Loss in Kamloops, LifeSpeak's June Campaign, Church Union Worship Service, and more.

Kamloops Residential School: A Time for Mourning and Support


Photo of rocks gathered to honour the 215 children found in a mass grave at Kamloops Residential School.

This message comes from Indigenous Ministries and Justice at The United Church of Canada:

As news came on May 28, 2021, that the remains of 215 children were found in a mass unmarked grave on the grounds of the former Kamloops Residential School, we entered into a time of mourning for these relatives, their families, and their communities... Indigenous Ministries asks all of the church to continue in this time of mourning and of support for each other as we grieve this loss, and others that we do not yet know about.

Read the full statement, which includes a brief reflection from Russelle Burns and prayers from the Moderator and the Rev. Murray Pruden, National Executive Minister, Indigenous Ministries & Justice.

If you are a residential school or intergenerational survivor and this content is upsetting, please call the National Indian Residential School Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419.

[Photo credit: Russel Burns]
 


LifeSpeak’s June Campaign: LGBTQIA+ and Two Spirit People and Mental Health


Photo of a rainbow flag, and a flag in blue and pink.

June is officially recognized as Pride month. It’s a time in which the LGBTQIA+ and Two Spirit community is recognized and celebrated here in Canada and other regions. LifeSpeak’s campaign sets out to help us better understand the social and mental health considerations for these communities.

Check out these helpful videos which deal with key topics such as:

  • Coming out as LGBTQIA+ and Two Spirit
  • Same sex couple-hood and parenthood
  • The effect of homophobia on mental health

Be sure to join the “Ask the Expert” session on June 28 at noon ET as Michael Bach (Cornell Certified Diversity Professional, Advanced Practitioner (CCDP/AP), Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion) speaks on the topic, "Talking to Your Kids and Coworkers about the LGBTQIA+ Community." Learn more.

The French version will be on June 29 at noon ET, with Nadia Brabant. Find out more.

LifeSpeak is an extension of the Employee and Family Assistance Program, to help keep you and your family mentally and physically healthy. You can access the service from any computer or mobile device—visit United-Church.lifespeak.com, choose option "Access Through Group Account," and enter password "wellness".
 



Union Day Service of Celebration


On Thursday, June 10, join Moderator Richard Bott and others for a special online worship service to celebrate the 96th anniversary of The United Church of Canada. This service will be livestreamed on our YouTube channel. Please bring water with you to participate in the service.
 


United Church Bookstore: Summer Sale Continues
Image of multicoloured bunting.

Throughout June, we celebrate both Pride month and Indigenous History Month. As the United Church Bookstore clearance sale continues, titles are being added that can help you explore these themes, like Mary Jo Leddy's Why Are We Here? A Meditation on CanadaYours, Mine, Ours: Unravelling the Doctrine of Discoveryedited by Steve Heinrichs, and Generous Spaciousness: Responding to the Gay Christians in the Church.

The store is making space for fresh new titles to be added, so shop while quantities last and stock up for summer. From children's books, to devotionals, and everything in between, you're sure to find a title or two to take home and enjoy!
 


Worship Resources 


See our Worship Resources for upcoming Sundays and special celebrations.

June 6 - Second After Pentecost
June 6 - Pride Sunday
June 6 - Union Sunday
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