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, August 19, 2025
E-ssentials: Dreaming a Better World Into Being, Voices of the Land Webinar, and more!
The United Church Issues Bold, Hopeful Call for Action on Peace and Justice
[Image credit: Alan Lai / The United Church of Canada]
The United Church of Canada released a renewed declaration of its commitment to justice, peace, the integrity of Creation, and the flourishing and well-being of all peoples and the world. “Dreaming a Better World Into Being: For the Sake of God’s Beloved World” stems from a number of decisions made last week at General Council 45 in Calgary, Alberta. Held from August 7–11, General Council saw United Church members from across the nation unite in faith and reflection on the church’s path forward, joined by global, ecumenical, and interfaith partners.
As we find ourselves in the second half of summer, communities across Canada continue to celebrate Pride, and The United Church of Canada is embracing a moment of both reflection and commitment.
We invite you to join the 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.
Our dedication to visibility, affirmation, and belonging is a journey that continues every day.
New Blog! The Power of Global Commitment to 2S and LGBTQIA+ Justice: GC45 and Beyond
[Image credit: Jane Thirikwa / The United Church of Canada]
Mónica Treviño Álvarez, a representative of the World Student Christian Federation in Latin America and the Caribbean, attended The United Church of Canada's General Council 45. As a young, lesbian woman living with an autoimmune disease, she reflects on the violence and discrimination she has experienced within churches and expresses her gratitude for the United Church's public apology to 2S and LGBTQIA+ communities. She highlights the shared commitment of her organization and the United Church to justice, and hopes to one day witness a similar apology in her home country of Mexico. Her story serves as a testament to the importance of ongoing commitment to justice and solidarity with global partners.
The spirit of our 100 Tables project is still going strong! This national initiative invited United Church communities to transform picnic tables into vibrant sites of welcome and connection.
We're so thrilled by the many churches that have already added their unique tables to our interactive map. These visible signs powerfully demonstrate our promise to meet people where they are. Rooted in faith, these "tables" offer meaningful experiences and a true sense of belonging.
This isn't just a Centennial event; it's an ongoing commitment that extends our church's century-long history of love, justice, and inclusion. As we continue to embrace joy as resistance, we invite even more communities to join this living testament to hope and love across Canada.
Has your church added its table yet? If not, there's still time to be part of this beautiful, ongoing initiative. Learn more and add your table to the map today!
Your travels can have an impact on the environment. You can help offset your carbon footprint by supporting communities in Kenya who are on the front lines of climate change.
Your gift to Mission and Service directly supports the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) in Kitui County. They're implementing effective, nature-based solutions like sustainable beekeeping and tree planting to conserve water and strengthen communities against climate shocks.
This program strengthens food security and positively impacts the lives of over 11,000 people, including farmers, young mothers, and students. This vital work is done in partnership with The United Church of Canada and the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
Join us in making a tangible difference for our planet and its people.
Join the global conversation on Indigenous spiritualities, land rights, and climate justice. We invite you to listen and learn from three internationally respected Indigenous leaders in a transformative webinar, Voices of the Land: Indigenous Perspectives on Climate Justice, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. ET.
This is more than a webinar—it's a call to action and reflection. You will deepen your understanding of decolonization and be inspired to advocate for Indigenous rights and climate action.
The conversation features leaders from around the globe:
Prof. Dr. Anne Pattel-Gray (Bidjara Nation, Australia)
Whether you're a climate activist, faith leader, student, or ally, this is your opportunity to listen, learn, and walk in solidarity with Indigenous peoples.
Mark your calendars for a special Cross Country Check-In on September 22, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. ET! This is your chance to meet the new Moderator, Rev. Dr. Kimberly Heath, along with the new members of the General Council Executive (GCE). We will also share important details about the upcoming GCE meeting in September.
This live online town hall is an opportunity for you to ask your questions, share what matters to you, and hear what’s ahead for this triennium. It’s your chance to meet our new leaders and be heard by the church’s decision-making body between General Councils.
Everyone is welcome. Don’t miss this opportunity to help shape the conversation!
Are you more comfortable speaking French?
A French-language-only version of Cross Country Check-In will be held on September 22, 2025 6:00 p.m. ET.
Join us on Zoomfor the session held in French. Hosted by Pasteur Éric Hébert-Daly, Ministre exécutif, ECO, EOO, Nakonha:ka CRs. No registration required.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources, subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca.
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