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.
Monday, June 30, 2025
E-ssentials: Catch Up On General Council 45, Pride Reflections, and more!
Catch Up On General Council 45!
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
The 45th General Council met on Saturday, June 28. Watch our website for a summary of this meeting later this week. You can also visit our GC45 playlist on YouTube to view a recording of the sessions, as well as catch up on all the GC45 livestreams.
Mark your calendars to follow all the upcoming General Council 45 livestreams and upcoming in-person/online hybrid General Council happening in Calgary, August 7-11.
Reflections from Cape Town, South Africa: A Personal Journey During Pride Month
[Image credit: Courtesy of Rev. Dr. Japhet Ndhlovu]
At the Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM) 30th anniversary celebration in Cape Town, Africa, the Rev. Dr. Japhet Ndhlovu was surrounded by an atmosphere of vibrant energy and anticipation. The gathering, set at the beginning of Pride Month, felt like a convergence of journeys—toward visibility, affirmation, and belonging. As Pride Month concludes, the enduring message from this powerful event is clear: we are not alone, and together, we are shaping a more inclusive and just future for all. Read the full blog.
Pride's End, Action's Beginning: A Call for Ongoing Love and Faith
[Image credit:The United Church of Canada]
Your opportunity to make an impact for PRIDE 2025 doesn't end with June! You can join our Love, Faith and Bold Action letter-writing campaign. Urge the Canadian government to uphold and advance the rights of gender-diverse and 2S and LGBTQIA+ people around the globe—your voice truly makes a difference.
While Pride Month culminates today, our dedication to visibility, affirmation, and belonging is a journey that continues every day.
The United Church of Canada's Apology to 2S and LGBTQIA+ Communities
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
On Friday, August 8, The United Church of Canada will offer a somber and historic apology to 2S and LGBTQIA+ communities.
This formal apology reaffirms our commitment to radical hospitality and full inclusion of 2S and LGBTQIA+ people in all aspects of church life. It acknowledges past harm and shortcomings, while continuing to build towards a world of radical love and affirmation for all identities.
We invite you to join us in person at Knox United Church in Calgary (9:00 a.m. MT) or via the livestream.
Mission and Service Stories: Sacred Care for Those Who Carry the Weight
[Image credit: Derek Sutton | Unsplash]
In northern Manitoba and Ontario,Indigenous United Church ministers are often the only ones available to walk with their communities through addiction, suicide, and profound grief. The emotional and spiritual toll is immense. A retreat offers a lifeline of support.
Please hold them in your prayers.
Your continued support through Mission and Service is essential. You are helping provide healing space for those who carry the grief of entire communities. You are ensuring they do not carry it alone.
The United Church Bookstore: United Church Merchandise for All!
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Show your spirit and support The United Church of Canada with our diverse range of merchandise! We've got something for everyone, whether you're looking to show your pride, commemorate significant events, or collect a piece of history!
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