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, June 16, 2026
E-ssentials: Indigenous Peoples Day Resources, a Call for Peace in Cuba, and more!
Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day with New Worship Resources!
[Image credit: P. Rogers/The United Church of Canada]
Sunday, June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. On this day of celebration and prayer, let us give thanks for the cultures, languages, teachings, and spiritual gifts of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
New 2026 worship resources are available for the Indigenous Day of Prayer, also observed on June 21, to help communities mark this meaningful day in worship and reflection.
The United Church of Canada, Canadian churches, labour organizations, and civil society groups are calling on the Government of Canada to publicly reject escalating U.S. actions against Cuba and to support humanitarian assistance for the Cuban people. The statement comes as partners in Cuba continue to report severe shortages of fuel, food, water, and medical supplies.
We hold in prayer all the Cuban peoples affected by the ongoing crisis and call for peace, justice, and humanitarian support. Read the full news story and learn more.
Don't Miss This! Radical Welcome: Rainbow Refugee Sponsorship
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Around the world, LGBTQIA+ refugees face persecution, violence, and displacement simply for being who they are. As World Refugee Day approaches, join us on June 18 from 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET for Living into Radical Welcome: Rainbow Refugee Sponsorship and discover how communities of faith are helping create safety, belonging, and hope through refugee sponsorship.
Hear firsthand stories from sponsorship groups, learn about the refugee sponsorship process, and explore how welcoming LGBTQIA+ refugees can be a powerful expression of faith, justice, and solidarity. Whether you're curious about sponsorship or ready to take the next step, this interactive webinar will help you imagine what radical welcome can look like in your community.
Mission and Service Stories: Campfires and Confidence
[Image credit: Arthur Kidston Memorial Camp]
For 60 years, Arthur Kidston Memorial Camp in Nova Scotia has offered children and youth opportunities to explore the outdoors, build confidence, and form lasting friendships. From canoeing and kayaking to crafts, games, and leadership activities, Camp Kidston helps young people discover new strengths while connecting with nature and community.
Gifts through Mission and Service help provide recreational equipment and supplies that make these experiences possible—from life jackets and sports equipment to nature exploration kits. As Camp Kidston celebrates its 60th anniversary, your support is helping ensure future generations can continue to experience the adventure, belonging, and personal growth that camp makes possible.
New Blog! Where Love Refuses to Die: Queer Life and Resistance in the Heart of Africa
[Image credit:Nature_Design / Pixabay]
What does LGBTQIA+ advocacy look like in a country where same-sex relationships are criminalized?
In a moving reflection from the Faith Beyond Borders consultation in Mozambique, Rev. Dr. Japhet Ndhlovu shares the story of a courageous grassroots organization supporting LGBTQIA+ people in Southern Africa. Despite discrimination, legal barriers, and threats to their safety, advocates are creating spaces of belonging, supporting families, changing hearts and minds, and quite literally saving lives.
The United Church Bookstore: Registration Extended for Collective 2026—Shop the Official Merch!
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
There's still time to join Collective 2026, The United Church of Canada's gathering for youth, young adults, and their leaders. Registration has been extended until June 30, giving more people the opportunity to take part in four days of worship, discipleship, workshops, recreation, and community at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario, August 12–15.
Already registered? Get event-ready with the new Collective 2026 merchandise collection from the United Church Bookstore. From t-shirts to other event gear, it's a great way to celebrate your participation and connect with the wider Collective community.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources, subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca.
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