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, September 4, 2024
E-ssentials: Season of Creation Resources, Justice Events, and Opportunities for Change!
Celebrating the Season of Creation
The Affirmation of Faith
We have faith in one God, one Source of all life, one Ground of the whole Earth, who created all things good. And we have faith in Christ, in whom we have been shown the special role of humanity to bear God’s likeness in working and caring for Creation, in seeking to understand her mysteries and powers, in working with these powers for the wellbeing of life on Earth. And we have faith in God’s Spirit who leads us to a meek, unselfish and compassionate life-style.
So that the Earth is inherited in peace, her life is transformed for all creatures and her bounty shared justly. So be it. Amen.
Adapted from India. Source: Sinfonia Oecumenica, Gütersloher Verlagshaus, Gütersloh 1998. Reproduced by ECEN for Creation Time 2003 as seen in Worship Resources from the Season of Creation: Celebration Guide. This year’s theme is To Hope and Act with Creation.
[Image credit: SeasonofCreation.org]
September Events Are Calling for Your Solidarity!
Taking action for justice is an essential part of how we live into our faith at The United Church of Canada. September events are calling for your solidarity! Parliament returns on September 16th, and that week will be a critical time for several justice issues.
Migrant Justice Days of Action (September 14‒15): Stand against racism and demand Status for All for undocumented workers.
Grassy Narrows River Run (September 18): Show solidarity with the people of Grassy Narrows in their fight for Indigenous and environmental justice.
Guaranteed Livable Income Bill (September 19): Support Bill C-223 and ensure it moves forward in Parliament to help everyone put food on their tables.
Contact your MP to urge them to take action on these important issues.
[Image credit: Canva]
Join a 40 Days Study Group This Fall!
40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism returns on October 15! Would you like to talk with other participants about what you are learning and discovering? Join one of the free online study groups available! When you sign up for the 40 Days Live Events, you can also register to join a study group. Participants in the groups will be able to connect with other learners in a supportive community, talk about emerging ideas from the 40 Days Live Events, and share more about your anti-racism journey.
40 Days study groups offer sessions to explore the week’s content in greater depth. Led by experienced facilitators, these groups provide a space for questions, discussions, and insights.
Choose one of two convenient times:
• Mondays at 7:00 p.m. ET (October 28, November 18, and December 2) • Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. ET (October 30, November 20, and December 4)
Don’t miss this chance to enhance your learning experience! Sign up today.
This network meeting will highlight the Leadership Counts project, which surveyed The United Church of Canada's ministry personnel, staff, and national committee members about their self-identification, including in terms of disabilities. Join us for a networking session to connect with others and discuss how to build a more inclusive church.
“Since God’s image includes disability, and this image dwells in all human beings, the church is summoned into a radical kind of belonging, as if welcoming each other is to welcome the divine in our midst.”(Theologies of Disabilities Report, 2015)
Open to persons living with disabilities and interested in advancing disability rights and accessibility within The United Church of Canada and beyond. Register today!
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Mission and Service Stories: It Starts with Education
As we look to the future, the impact of educational initiatives through Mission and Service partners becomes clear. Every lesson learned, every skill acquired, and every relationship built contributes to a larger tapestry of hope and resilience.
Whether it's a child in a rural classroom or an adult in a leadership program, the education provided through Mission and Service partners is a beacon, guiding individuals toward a path of faith, understanding, and service. Together, we are sowing the seeds of a more compassionate world. Thank you.
[Image credit: oksanashufryc]
The United Church Bookstore: Don't Miss The Next Mod's Book Squad Session!
On Thursday, September 26, join Moderator Carmen Lansdowne and special guest Cameron Fraser for a lively discussion on Doug Saunders' provocative book, Maximum Canada. Saunders presents a bold vision for Canada's future, suggesting that tripling the population is essential for the country's prosperity, equality, and sustainability. Don't miss this opportunity to explore this thought-provoking idea. Join the conversation and register for the Mod's Book Squad.
You can purchase Maximum Canada and other featured Mod Squad Books at the United Church Bookstore. Use discount code MODSQUAD for 15% off your purchase of two or more featured books.
[Image credit: Knopf Canadian Publishing and The United Church of Canada]
Worship Resources
See our Worship Resources for upcoming Sundays and special celebrations.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca
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