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.
Thursday, January 22, 2026
E-ssentials: Reflections from the Moderator, Remembering Bruce McLeod, and more
I am alarmed by the escalation of the ICE raids and violence in the US, and the killing of Renee Good. The president of the United States is intensifying his fight against his enemies: Democrats and anyone else who opposes him, even people in his own party who try to limit his power. Our temptation is to retreat to fear, to hide, or to become what he wants us to be—his adversary—and to fight. Fight, flight, freeze, or fawn.
The Christian response is to love. Read 1 Corinthians 13 and you will be reminded that love is not weak (it endures all things) and neither is it arrogant or resentful. Love stands in the place of hatred and is not moved. Love defends those suffering and welcomes them in.
As Christians, our call is to a path of peace.
We need to deepen our faith to meet the needs of this day—to learn spiritual practices, and the tools of peaceful resistance, and be ready to use them. We need to fill ourselves not with hate or fear, but with the love of Jesus, because this is the path of peace and healing to share with a divided world.
In this Epiphany season, we celebrate the coming of God’s light in Jesus: “the sunrise shall visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and, in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
Guide our feet, Lord, we pray.
—The Right Rev. Dr. Kimberly Heath is Moderator of The United Church of Canada
Bruce McLeod, 25th Moderator of The United Church of Canada, Dies at Age 96
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
The Very Rev. Dr. Norman Bruce McLeod, 25th Moderator of The United Church of Canada, passed away on January 13, 2026, at age 96 in Orangeville, Ontario. He is remembered for his leadership from 1972–1974, his advocacy for human rights, and his dedication to inter-faith dialogue. McLeod served numerous churches in Ontario and was known for his contributions to Broadview Magazine and the Toronto Star.
Our deepest condolences to his wife, the Rev. Joyce Kelly, his children, and the Westminster United Church community.
The Rev. Dr. McLeod's funeral service will be held at Westminster United Church (247 Broadway, Orangeville, ON, L9W 1K6) on Sunday, February 1. The time for gathering will begin at 2:00 p.m. (ET) with music and photos. A reception will follow in the lower hall. The service will be livestreamed on Westminster's YouTube page.
The 2026 edition—as well as older editions from 2007 on—are also available on GeneralCouncil.ca; search for “The Manual” using the search bar on the main page.
Are you passionate about supporting migrant justice and improving living conditions for migrants in Canada? The United Church of Canada's Migrant Justice Network invites you to be a part of our collective efforts to advocate for international students, refugees, asylum seekers, immigrants, and migrant workers.
This network is a loosely knit group that meets at least quarterly, with membership based on participation. We welcome anyone aligned with the concerns of (im)migrants in Canada and globally.
Join Rev. Dr. Christine Jerrett for a six-week Lenten study using the United Church’s new devotional Bless, Break, Share. Explore themes of food, hunger, and justice through reflective discussions every Tuesday from 2:00-3:00 p.m. ET, February 24 - March 31, 2026.
Session Dates:
Feb 24: The Table of Invitation
Mar 3: The Table of Longing
Mar 10: The Table of Blessing
Mar 17: The Broken Table
Mar 24: The Table of Justice
Mar 31: The Table of Solidarity
Participate individually or as a study group. Receive a 15% discount on the book and get PDF readings included.
Do you have questions about a CHURCHx course? Contact help@churchx.ca.
Mission and Service Stories: Where Neighbours Meet
[Image credit: Brunswick Street Mission]
In Halifax, Nova Scotia, Brunswick Street Mission provides support, connection, and dignity to those in need. Every weekday, they serve a hot breakfast, offering a reliable meal and a welcoming environment. The Mission’s café offers a safe, calm space, while the food bank ensures dignity and choice, allowing people to select culturally appropriate foods.
Staff assist individuals with navigating systems like housing and health care, always valuing their expertise and providing vital support. Mission and Service contributions help keep the Mission’s doors open, meals served, and spaces safe, ensuring it remains a place where people can find connection and thrive.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources, subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca.
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