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.
Friday, February 20, 2026
E-ssentials: First Episode of Kitchen Conversations, Prayers for Tumbler Ridge, and more
Now Playing—Kitchen Conversations with the Moderator, Episode 1: Pancakes with Anna and Hanah
For our first episode, the Moderator’s daughter and niece join the conversation as they whip up a classic Shrove Tuesday blueberry pancake feast, filmed at the Moderator’s home kitchen in Brockville, Ontario. The fun, heart-filled conversation touches on the history of Pancake Tuesday, classic dishes of celebration, what it means to gather at the table as a family, and the way food ties us all together.
Stay tuned for more conversations like this each Sunday throughout Lent by subscribing to our YouTube channel, starting this weekend with Episode 2, where King Julez/Julian Rose joins the Moderator to bake a tasty frittata.
In a message shared yesterday on Family Day (observed in some provinces across Canada), the Moderator acknowledged the heartbreaking truth that grief does not end when the headlines begin to fade. Trauma does not resolve in days or even weeks. The families and residents of Tumbler Ridge, and all who feel the weight of this violence across the country, will need extended care, accompaniment, mental health support, and a compassionate national response.
Now Is a Pivotal Moment! Tell Your MP No More Loopholes
[Image credit: ArmsEmbargoNow]
“... they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.” Isaiah 2:4
The United Church of Canada is actively advocating for the passing of the No More Loopholes Act (Bill C-233), which is designed to close gaps in Canada's arms export laws that allow military goods to be transferred to conflict zones, specifically Israel, via the United States. As part of the "Arms Embargo Now" coalition and in collaboration with KAIROS Canada, the Church is urging its members to pressure Members of Parliament (MPs) to support the bill, which is set for a crucial vote in Parliament in late February 2026.
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.
The United Church Bookstore: Join the Lenten Study on CHURCHx
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Join Rev. Dr. Christine Jerrett for a six-week online Lenten study on CHURCHx. Using the United Church’s new Lenten devotional, Bless, Break, Share, Christine will guide participants through a thoughtful season of reflection and discussion on food, faith, and hunger throughout Lent.
The series runs on Tuesdays from 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET, beginning February 24.
Participants will receive downloadable readings to support each session, along with a 15% discount on the book through the United Church Bookstore.
Offer guidance as the United Church continues to deepen its work toward becoming an anti-racist, diverse, and more equitable church. The Anti-Racism Common Table and the Equity and Anti-Oppression Circle need people ready to offer insight, wisdom, and bold discipleship.
Mission and Service Stories: Where Play Builds Community
[Image credit: Westminster United Church]
Two hours never feels like enough at the Tomken Grove Afterschool Program. Neighbourhood children gather in an electronics-free space for play, movement, shared snacks and responsibility, building connection and community beyond the school day.
Your gifts through Mission and Service support programs like this, encouraging connection and community.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources, subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca.
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