Wednesday, April 6, 2022

E-ssentials: Youth Mental Health Webinar, Responding to Pope Francis, and more.

Blessed Youth: Supporting Children and Youth Mental Health




Children and youth have been particularly vulnerable to mental health ​concerns during the pandemic. The unpredictability of school hours over the past two years, the isolation from friends, and the lack of opportunities to learn social skills at a stage of life when so much is in flux have left many of our younger members struggling. In this webinar we'll learn how to remove the barriers of stigma and shame associated with mental illness in children and teens, and discover resources ​available to leaders of children and youth that will help us ​respond with compassion and grace. Find out more, and register.

When: Tuesday April 26, 2022. 7:00 p.m. EDT / 4:00 p.m. PT

Reminder: This month's Webinar for Church Treasurers will take place on Wednesday April 20, and will be geared towards NEW treasurers.
 


Responding to Pope Francis

A photo of a bright orange shirt hanging from a tree in a garden.

In a public audience on April 1, Pope Francis spoke to the First Nation, Inuit, and Métis delegates who had travelled to Rome. Time and care must be taken as we reflect on what was shared. As part of our commitment to the 94 Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the Caretakers’ Calls to the Church, The United Church of Canada is seeking the wisdom of the Elders’ Council and National Indigenous Council as to how we might respond.

The church is invited to pray with the Moderator for the delegates who travelled to Rome. 

[Photo credit: Jennifer Henry/The United Church of Canada]
 


Recent Vandalism at United Churches

Photo of the smashed glass door of St. Luke's. Broken glass litters the floor.
 

The United Church of Canada is saddened by acts of vandalism that occurred last week at St. Luke’s United Church in Upper Tantallon, Nova Scotia, and Scarboro United Church in Calgary, Alberta. At St. Luke’s, a Pride flag was torn down and a stone thrown through the glass door of the church building. Similarly, the Pride banner at Scarboro United was damaged by cuts and burn marks along with the word “repent” written in black marker.

The Pride flag outside First United Church in Fort Saskatchewan, AB, was also torn down last week. These incidents closely follow an aggressive act of vandalism at Metropolitan United Church in Toronto on March 7, in which the church building was subject to homophobic and anti-Semitic graffiti.

The United Church asks for prayers for the affected communities of faith and expresses solidarity with Jewish and LGBTQQIA+ and Two Spirit communities across our country who continue to be the subjects of systemic hate.

[Photo credit: St. Luke's United Facebook page]
 


Millions Face Food Shortages in Afghanistan

Photo of Life-saving food packages distributed in Afghanistan.
 

The United Nations estimates that nearly 23 million Afghans—more than half of the population—face potentially life-threatening food shortages, with nearly 9 million on the brink of famine. In addition, people lack proper healthcare and are confronting unemployment and housing shortages. Here’s how your generosity through Mission & Service is helping.

[Photo: Life-saving food packages distributed in Afghanistan. Credit: Asian Muslim Action Network]
 


United Church Bookstore: Together We Worship


 

With Together We Worship, you and your congregation can experience liturgists and preachers from across the country and around the world who offer meaningful, engaging worship in an easy-to-use package for up to 75% less than the cost of pulpit supply. All you need is someone willing to read from the leader’s sheet and a way for people to see and hear the video sermon. With readymade services for Palm SundayGood Friday, and Easter SundayTogether We Worship has your Holy Week services covered!

Explore the wider Together We Worship collection at the United Church Bookstore today.
 


Worship Resources 


See our Worship Resources for upcoming Sundays and special celebrations.

April 10 - Palm/Passion Sunday
April 14 - Maundy Thursday
April 15 - Good Friday
April 16 - Holy Saturday
April 17 - Easter/Resurrection Sunday
Moderator's Easter Message
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