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.
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
E-ssentials: Prayers and Support for Jasper, Climate Motivators Take Action, and more!
Prayers and Support for Jasper
The United Church of Canada continues to pray for the congregation of Jasper United Church, which lost its church building in the recent devastating wildfires. We also share our prayers for congregation of St. Mary and St. George Anglican Church, which also lost their church building in the fire, as well as for the wider community of Jasper, AB, and for all those affected by climate-change sparked fires in so many places across Canada.
Moderator Carmen Lansdowne has written to Jasper United minister, Rev. Linda McLaren, and the church board expressing the concern of the national church:
"I pray for peace of mind to return in its time. And for you and the congregation in your care to rise in strength from the ashes, to rebuild and to heal together. It will be a long road, but walking together will lighten the load. You have our support and also our prayers. May we continue to hold firm to hope and God’s promise of new and renewed life."
Jasper United Church is sharing updates on their Facebook page about the loss of their church building and the impact of the wildfires on the whole community.
If you'd like to contribute financially to Jasper United and the recovery and relief efforts, you can donate through the Northern Spirit Regional Council webpage.
[Photo courtesy of Jasper United Church Facebook page]
Climate Motivators Help Communities of Faith Take Action
A dozen youth from across Canada are putting their passion for climate advocacy into action as they spend the summer working with local congregations on climate justice or environmental necessities. The 12 students in the program developed by The United Church of Canada, in partnership with The GO Project, come from across Canada.
This United Church program provides youth the opportunity to learn more about and encourage more, participation in specific climate efforts in partnership with a local community of faith.
Invite Your Community: Host an Online Event with the Indigenous-Racialized Young Scholars
The 2024 Indigenous-Racialized Young Scholars cohort has completed their research on various anti-racism topics. Their respected findings were presented in written and creative art forms.
So, what do we do with these research findings?
We are inviting local communities of faith in the United Church to host “one-hour” online events where at least three of these Youth Scholars can present their findings in creative art forms. Included in the presentation will be a Question and Answer session where the audience can converse with our Youth Scholars on the topic they presented. These online events will use the CHURCHx platform and will be held over the fall season (September to November).
Call and Vision Logos: Available in Multiple Languages!
Did you know The United Church of Canada's Call and Vision logo is available in a wide variety of languages? Engage with the church's call to Deep Spirituality, Bold Discipleship, and Daring Justice in all your communities!
There is also a selection of Call and Vision merchandise available to order from the United Church Bookstore. This merchandise collection includes window decals, Call and Vision-themed scented candles, embroidered badges, and more. See a full collection of Call and Vision merchandise on the United Church Bookstore.
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Mission and Service Stories: The Power of Bringing Minority Youth Together
“God called upon me to see how the people of Miyako Island are living, and to share with everyone their struggle for peace,” says Ashley Keeping. She was one of two United Church young adults selected to attend the Minority Youth Forum on Japan’s Miyako Island. The Youth Forum is an ecumenical initiative of churches in Japan, supported by The United Church of Canada and Mission and Service.
Your generosity through Mission and Service helps programs like this one that inspire peace and learning.
[Photo credit: David McIntosh]
The United Church Bookstore: New Centennial Merch Alert!
As we draw closer to our 100th anniversary as a denomination, we're taking a look back at the rich history of the United Church. This August, we're spotlighting Culture, Worship, and Music.
Our new Then Let Us Sing! Tote Bag is the perfect way to carry your essentials while honouring our musical heritage. Don't miss out on this limited edition item as well as many others from our Centennial collection!
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca
Important Note: The images included in this newsletter are protected by copyright. While we encourage you to share the newsletter itself, please don't copy or use the images independently. Thanks for your understanding!
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