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, September 16, 2025
E-ssentials: GC45 Affirms Peace Work in Palestine and Israel, Fall Learning Opportunities, and more!
General Council 45 Affirms Peace Work in Palestine and Israel
[Image credit: Hladnikm | Wikimedia Commons]
About 180 Commissioners joined the recalled session of the 45th General Council, which met online on Saturday, September 13 to address unfinished business from the August 7–11 meeting in Calgary, Alberta. The meeting dealt with a number of proposals, including several related to just peace in Palestine and Israel.
The 45th General Council affirmed the work that the General Council Office is already doing in advocating for a just peace in Palestine and Israel. For example, continuing to apply the Principles for Justice Work to supporting work for equal rights in Palestine and Israel, affirming a Palestinian state, and urging the government to act for justice were all passed with an overwhelming majority.
The Council also formally adopted the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism, and authorized contributing to the development of a post-Gaza theology. Following GC45 in Calgary, The United Church of Canada signed open letters with partners that included key commitments regarding the current situation in Gaza.
A Litany of Invitation for the Church from General Council 45, Calgary
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
During the 45th General Council, a small group of leaders created a special litany and prayer to share the council's spirit and concerns with the wider church. The prayer, which is available in both English and French, focuses on themes of healing, justice, and community. It encourages the church to embrace change, welcome diversity, and work toward a more just and peaceful world.
It's almost here! Join us 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?
NEW DATE: A French-language-only version of Cross Country Check-In has been rescheduled and will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 4:00 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.
The fall’s calls for nominations have just launched! Do you have the expertise the church is seeking for these national committees? Do you know someone who does?
Academic Awards and Scholarship Committee—Are you passionate about education and theological excellence? We are looking for two thoughtful, discerning individuals to help recommend recipients for various academic awards. If you have expertise in theological education, an eye for emerging trends, and a heart for the church’s call consider expressing interest to serve with this committee.
Join us for a Church Tech Open House on Tuesday, September 23, from 7:00–8:00 p.m. ET. This free online event is your chance to learn more about the Church Tech Best Practices Network.
Whether you're new to tech in ministry or have been at it for years, this network is a space to ask questions and learn from others. Past topics have included everything from how to make Zoom worship more engaging to using AI for Bible studies and setting up online giving.
Come discover the resources available, the benefits of joining, and how you can help shape the future of this community.
Two videos each week—for individual or congregational use—will be available from October 14 through November 28. Each video, available in a one-minute and a three-minute version, is a story about anti-racism told by a member of the United Church. The 40 Days will also feature written prayers, ideas for congregational responses, and suggestions for study groups. While many people engage with the 40 Days in October and November, you can use the 40 Days resources at any time of year!
The full resource package will be ready later in September. In the meantime, please sign up for the Anti-Racism Newsletter to stay up to date with program developments. You can also sign up for the free weekly online events, taking place on Wednesdays and featuring a range of speakers, on CHURCHx.
Here in Canada, millions struggle to put food on the table. Around the world, nearly a third of the global population faces food insecurity. These aren’t just numbers—these are our neighbours, here and far away.
As we give thanks this year for the food we share in our own homes, may we also remember those for whom a full plate is never certain. And may our gratitude move us to action—so that bread is not just a symbol of God’s promise, but a daily reality for all.
The United Church Bookstore: Just Restocked—Bulletin Covers for Worship!
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Is your community of faith planning in-person worship for the fall and beyond?
We've just restocked our bulletin covers with an updated 2026 Bulletin Covers Planning Kit available for you to download and use. We hope these bulletins assist your faith community as you gather to worship.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources, subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca.
Important Note: The images included in this newsletter are protected by copyright. While we encourage you to share the newsletter itself, please don't copy or use the images independently. Thanks for your understanding!
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