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, March 18, 2025
E-ssentials: 100 Words of Hope, Cross-Country Check-in, and more!
100 Words of Hope
A minister in the early church, Paul, said it well for me, "No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation can ever separate us from the love of God, revealed in Christ Jesus..."
Two-thousand years ago or today, this is world-changing. Even in moments when humankind's worst impulses are enormous, there is a real, vital, overwhelming impulse that draws us towards healing and wholeness - God's love - and there is *nothing* that can stop it.
It may be hard to believe, it takes a lot of work, but we live in that hope.
—The Very Rev. Dr. Richard Bott, Grace United Church, Burlington, ON
Feeling anxious about our world right now? So are we. But we know there is hope.
We've invited United Church leaders to share "100 Words of Hope" that speak to these moments of high anxiety, and that lean into deep spirituality. We also invite YOU to share your own 100-word reflection, poem, or prayer on hope and faith in these times. Submit your reflection or prayer using this form.
Together, we can lift each other up in faith, hope, and love.
We are not alone. We live in God’s world.
[Image still credit: The United Church of Canada]
Mission and Service Stories: Springtime of the Spirit
Because of you, Mission and Service partners are like the first flowers of spring—blooming where they are needed most. Your compassion takes root and becomes warmth and care for those in crisis, hope for those facing hardship, and new possibilities for communities near and far.
In this season of Lent, leading to Easter, may you be like the first flowers of spring—vibrant, alive, and bringing joy to those around you. In this time of renewal, know that your generosity through Mission and Service will help even more seeds of hope take root and grow. Thank you.
[Image credit: Jelena Safronova]
The United Church Bookstore: Be a Force of Change at The Next Mod's Book Squad!
Next month, on Thursday, April 25, 2025 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. ET, join Moderator Carmen Lansdowne and special guest Lori Ransom as they discuss the book True Reconciliation: How to be a Force for Change by former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Jody Wilson-Raybould in the next Mod's Book Squad session.
Broken down into three core practices—Learn, Understand, and Act—what individuals and organizations need to do to advance true reconciliation is self-evident, accessible, and achievable.
Gather online and in person on Earth Day, April 22 at 1:00 p.m. MDT (3:00 p.m. ET) for a Mother Earth Day–Jubilee 2025 Prayer Service. As part of Together for the Love of Creation Earth Week, join Indigenous Minister Rev. Tony Snow and others for a time of prayer on United Nations International Mother Earth Day. Learn more.
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Don't Miss Out! Cross-Country Check-in with Members of the General Council Executive
You're invited to the next live Cross-Country Check-in on April 2 at 6:00 p.m. ET! Join General Secretary Rev. Michael Blair and General Council Executive guests for a discussion of key decisions and dialogues. This is your opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with leadership. With over 330 participants last time, register early on CHURCHx! Treena Duncan, Regional Executive Minister, Pacific Mountain Regional Council will facilitate.
Last call for nominations! The calls for nominations are closing soon. Check if the leaders you believe are called need any assistance to submit their interest – and don’t forget to submit your own, if you are the one who feels called!
Thursday, March 27 (Board of Vocation and Committees)
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Introducing the Faithful Futures: Endowment Guidebook
Introducing the Faithful Futures: Endowment Guidebook! As we celebrate 100 years of faithful service, we also look forward to building a vibrant future. This must-have resource for United Church congregations offers valuable insights and step-by-step instructions on how to set up and create endowment funds to help your congregation thrive for the next 20, 50, or 100 years.
Whether you're new to investing or already have endowments, this workbook is an essential tool for all. Get your free copy now, and in this Centennial Year, let's work together to strengthen your congregation's financial future and build a lasting legacy.
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada Foundation]
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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