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, February 12, 2026
E-ssentials: Cross Country Check-In, Leadership Counts, and more!
Join Us at the Next Cross Country Check-In
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
The General Council Executive meets February 20–21 for its first meeting of 2026. Shortly after, people across the country are invited to join a live Cross-Country Check-In on February 25, 2026 (6:00–7:30 p.m. ET).
This online town hall is a chance to connect directly with church leadership, ask questions about General Council 45, learn more about how the GCE works, and put faces to names. Whether you choose to listen in or call with a question, all are welcome.
The conversation will be hosted by Rev. Éric Hébert-Daly, Regional Council Executive Minister, and will feature the Acting General Secretary, Rev. Cheryl-Ann Stadelbauer-Sampa, along with guests from the GCE.
Leadership Counts End-of-Term Report Now Available
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
The United Church of Canada continues to reaffirm its commitments to equity and anti-oppression. The church’s commitments to equity help us glimpse the Kin-dom of God, where all are welcome at the table (Luke 14:12–14) and are honoured and created in God’s image.
The newly released Leadership Counts end-of-term report shares insights from a voluntary identity survey of ministry personnel and denominational committee members. The report gives a clearer picture of the diversity of people who are currently serving in leadership roles. This data will be used to help the church better live into its equity commitments.
Black History Month: Listen Deeply and Grow in Love
[Video still credit: The United Church of Canada]
Inzwi Munikwa shares a prayer inviting us to listen deeply and grow in love as we honour the beauty of every story and every life.
Creator, Thank you for all the beauty and uniqueness you have blessed each and every one of us with. Thank you for all those who tell their stories, share their pain, and continue to show kindness to all with pride in existing as you made them.
During this reflection period help us stop and listen to all those who share their stories and experiences with racism, prejudices, and discrimination.
Help us to stay in the discomfort that may arise in our hearts and to open ourselves to reflect on all that is shared.
May we become kinder to each other and share in the love that you unconditionally and unwaveringly give us.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
—by Inzwi Munikwa
Explore additional resources for Black History Month and anti-racism work throughout the year on our website.
This new Lenten devotional from the United Church Publishing House brings faith to the table with reflections, prayers, and recipes. Coordinating Bless, Break, Share merchandise is also available—simple, practical pieces designed for everyday kitchens.
Want to go deeper? Join Rev. Dr. Christine Jerrett for a six-week online Lenten study on CHURCHx, Tuesdays from 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET beginning February 24. The series includes downloadable readings and a 15% discount on the book through the United Church Bookstore.
Are you knowledgeable about the lived experiences of Black people in the United Church and beyond? Are you committed to equity and challenging anti-Black racism? If so, check out the new Working Group on Addressing Church Legacies for People of African Descent and the work it will be advising on, including work on an apology to people of African descent for enslavement.
Mission and Service Stories: Support That Grows with Families
[Image credit: London Community Chaplaincy]
Parenting is a complex journey with no one-size-fits-all path. In London, Ontario, Mission and Service partners with the London Community Chaplaincy to support parents and guardians as they build community, share experiences, and develop skills while navigating the challenges of raising children in low-income settings.
Through weekly gatherings, parents find a safe, welcoming space to learn, connect, and support one another. Your Mission and Service gifts help make this work possible—empowering families as they build a stronger future together.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources, subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca.
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