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, December 17, 2024
E-ssentials: A Christmas Message from Moderator Carmen Lansdowne
Moderator Carmen Lansdowne Encourages a Just and Compassionate Christmas
Moderator Carmen Lansdowne shares a hopeful Christmas message, encouraging us to embrace the spirit of the season and work towards a more just and compassionate world.
Downloadable versions of the Moderator's Christmas message are available in English or French.
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Over 100 Francophone Youth Attended First-Time United Church Event
Over 100 young francophones from across Canada gathered at Jouvence, Quebec, for the first ever Ré-unis "No Longer Strangers" youth event.
The weekend was filled with inspiring talks, workshops, and fun activities. The youth heard from church leaders and other inspiring speakers, and enjoyed sharing their own thoughts and experiences.
Another event is already in the planning stages, and everyone is excited to see what the future holds for this vibrant community of young francophones. Read the full news story.
[Image credit: Danielle Ramasiarisoa]
A Wise Gift, A Timely Impact: Support Children in Need Today!
With the ongoing mail delays due to the postal strike, we are continuing to reach out to our supporters, both current and past, to encourage you to give online to The United Church of Canada’s Mission and Service. Your gifts this Advent season will go to support children. Children who are hungry, children who need shelter, children who need support.
This Advent season is one of the main times when the people of The United Church of Canada offer their support and gifts to ensure that the programs supported by Mission and Service can continue. Programs and partners serving those in need, both within Canada and around the world.
Make your gift online, or call to donate: 1-800-465-3771.
Thank you for your compassion and generosity. Together, we can make a difference.
Electronic Payment Options Available for Assessments and Mission and Service Funds
Due to the Canada Post strike delays, we encourage electronic payments for denominational/regional assessments and Mission and Service funds. Options include online banking, pre-authorized payments, or direct deposit at Royal Bank of Canada (RBC).
More details and forms are available on The United Church Assessment Process webpage (scroll to the bottom for the downloads section).
[Image credit: Love: notice Mary, Joseph and Jesus loving each other. Where do you encounter the grounding presence of God's love? (Eph 3:17) How does trusting "the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge" invite you into the fullness of God's love? (Eph 3:19). Permission has been granted for non-commercial use in The United Church of Canada worship services during Advent 2024. To use these resources after December 2024, please contact the artist at ksudom@gmail.com.]
An Advent Renovation Story
Advent is one of the church’s seasons of renovation: a season that asks us to consider ourselves and our churches. Maybe our spiritual practices have been the same for a long time. Maybe they need freshening up. Maybe we’ve become so used to the way things are that nothing short of tearing it back to the studs to start again will do!
Renovations are never easy, but change requires change. You can’t stay the same and expect to change. It’s your vision of what could be that pulls you ahead. That’s how things get better.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources, subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca.
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