The Body of Christ is made of many parts, and people experience their understanding of God in many different ways. On this blog, we'll consider the beliefs and activities of congregations, denominations and different religions.
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
E-ssentials: Solidarity and Action with 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth, 40 Days of Anti-Racism Returns, and more!
Solidarity and Action with 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth
The United Church of Canada is calling for the protection and affirmation of the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people, particularly transgender and non-binary youth. Gender and sexuality are gifts of God and all persons are made in the image of God. Policies and guidelines related to gender identity and expression in educational and healthcare settings should uplift care and service providers, support transgender and non-binary students and youth, and create 2SLGBTQIA+ and gender affirming schools.
The United Church of Canada calls on its members and people of goodwill to continue demonstrating solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, to foster inclusive and safer environments in learning institutions, community and within family settings. Take action by contacting your Member of Parliament and/or your provincial leaders and ask them to safeguard and affirm existing legislation. Affirm United/S'affirmer Ensemble, and Affirming Connections, are also offering resources to challenge 2SLGBTQIA+ hate, and to share positive affirming messages to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Learn more and read the full news story.
[Image credit: BrutallyHonest from Pixabay]
40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism Returns!
Delve deeply into anti-racism work with a 40-day time of learning, reflection, and action! During these 40 days, there will be brand-new content, and a new line-up of speakers with online events each Tuesday. Sign up for the newsletter for the latest updates! 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism officially kicks off on Tuesday, October 10.
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Last Call for Nominations!
Last call for nominations! The call for nominations is closing soon for the General Council Executive and other important roles. Lift up the leaders that you believe the church needs for a time such as this. Learn more about each of the current opportunities to serve. Nominations close Monday, September 25.
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Mission and Service Stories: Listening and Learning on the Path to Reconciliation
Alf Dumont spent his life as a spiritual leader, serving the United Church as a minister while staying connected with his traditional Indigenous spirituality. His memoir The Other Side of the River: From Church Pew to Sweat Lodge shares stories of how Dumont walks between his two worlds. Your gifts through Mission and Service help support the creation and publication of luminous, timely work like Dumont’s book as well as the webinar discussions and education events that follow.
[Image credit: The Other Side of the River]
Mission and Service "Did You Know...?"
Did you know that Mission and Service staff are available to take your calls? Our office is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern time on weekdays, and closed on weekends and holidays. You can reach the Mission and Service desk toll free at 1-800-465-3771, but while we appreciate your calls at any time, we won’t be available to chat outside of those hours. Please leave a message and we will respond as soon as possible.
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
EDGE is Live on CHURCHx in September!
Dive into fall learning, connection, and community live online with EDGE Ministries and its partners this month on CHURCHx. Only registrants will receive Zoom links and reminders, so be sure to sign up for each session that you plan to attend!
Buying United Information Webinar:September 27, 2:00–3:00 p.m. EDT. Free when you sign up for the Buying United Learning Community on CHURCHx. Hosted by procurement experts from Round Table Procurement Services.
Community Hub Information Webinar:September 27, 1:00–2:00 p.m. EDT. Free when you sign up for the Collaboration for Sustainable Community network on CHURCHx. Community hub Rev. Bob Fillier (Minister, Trinity United Church) and Sally Woolnough (Executive Director, Kirk Centre) talk about how they got started in their work with community hubs.
United Church Bookstore: Available Now! Canadian Church Calendars
The theme of this year’s calendar is the United Church’s Call and Vison: Deep Spirituality, Bold Discipleship, Daring Justice. It features photos of United Churches from across the country and notes special days and church seasons.
Order in bulk to save! Orders of 50 or more calendars can apply the MYCHURCHCAL discount code at checkout to receive 20% off the calendars, which communities of faith can then resell to their congregants to raise funds. This discount is active until November 15, so don't wait!
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Worship Resources
See our Worship Resources for upcoming Sundays and special celebrations.
No comments:
Post a Comment