An Advent Message from Moderator Carmen Lansdowne

The Right Rev. Carmen Lansdowne, Moderator of The United Church of Canada, shares her Advent message for 2023. Advent is a time of expectant waiting for the Christmas miracle—a story of hope, bravery, and the willingness to have faith in God. It is also a story of generosity and of humans caring for each other.

[Video still credit: The United Church of Canada]

Gifts with Vision: Transforming Lives

gifts with Vision Catalogue cover in a christmas tree

Instead of searching “gifts for someone who is hard to buy for,” why not give Gifts with Vision from the comfort of home, with no packaging or wrapping needed? Instead of gadgets and fleeting trends, Gifts with Vision is full of gifts that will help transform people’s lives throughout Canada and across the world.

[Photo credit: The United Church of Canada]

Leadership Counts Midterm Report Results

The Leadership Counts midterm report results indicated that almost half of those surveyed have one or more equity identities.

Leadership Counts is an ongoing voluntary identity survey for ministry personnel and members of national committees. Designed to inform the United Church’s strategic plan and anti-oppression work, it reveals barriers to full participation, and helps us identify how to meet our commitments more effectively. Read the full news story.

[Photo credit: Maxine Bulloch Photography]

Your Mission and Service New Year's Service and Sermon

Happy New Year! written on wood floor with two sets of sneakers in red and blue

Advent and Christmas are some of the most joy-filled times of the year. But after the celebrations are over, New Year’s Eve is still ahead—and this year, it arrives on a Sunday. Leaders in our church have poured out their energy, creativity, and inspiration to share amazing messages and lead their congregations in celebratory worship. They may well be tired and in need of support.

This is why Mission and Service is offering a service and sermon already prepared for New Year’s Eve Sunday. We invite you to review it and use it for New Year’s Eve. (It can even be used on January 7, if you wish!) At the end of the year, it is especially important to remind your community of faith of the amazing work that their Mission and Service gifts support, and to thank the many United Church supporters who have been so faithful through the year.

[Image credit: Storyblocks]

EDGE: Inspiration and Practical Advice

EDGEy Conversations with a coffee and laptop on a desk

Are you thinking about starting a new ministry? Visit the EDGEy Conversation Playlist to hear interviews with communities of faith, faith-based organizations, and changemakers across the country whose innovative ministries are making society a better place. Whether you seek ideas, inspiration to get started, or even practical advice on how to get and keep the ball rolling, you may find just what you need in these stories! Popular EDGEy Conversations from the last year include those with the Rev. Barbara Cairns, the Rev. Bob Fillier, and Soul Space Ottawa. Thanks to all who have participated!

[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]

United Church Bookstore: New Arrival!

Pardon the interruption to your Advent waiting! We have some big news: our 2024 climate-themed Lenten devotional has arrived in e-book and softcover formats. For those who like to plan ahead, Lent begins on February 14, 2024.

Act/Fast: Spiritual Practices for a Climate in Crisis is a devotional that invites us to deepen our love for Creation and take action or fast for a climate in crisis. It also includes a study guide to help you dive deeper as individuals or within a group. Get a glimpse into this thoughful new release in our latest blog.

Get your copy today at the United Church Bookstore. Plus, for a limited time, buy five copies or more and receive 20% off your purchase during check-out!

[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]