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, July 28, 2026
E-ssentials: NISG 2026, the Moderator’s Emancipation Day Message, and more
National Indigenous Spiritual Gathering 2026 Concludes with Hope
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Held July 15–19 at Carleton University in Ottawa, the National Indigenous Spiritual Gathering brought together Indigenous leaders, Elders, youth, ministers, and community members for worship, ceremony, learning, and relationship-building.
The gathering marked important steps toward a self-determining Indigenous Church, including the affirmation of the National Indigenous Council and the ordination of the Rev. Brian George.
Emancipation Day: Remembering, Honouring, and Committing to Justice
[Video still credit: The United Church of Canada]
As Canada marks Emancipation Day on August 1, we are invited to remember the painful history and enduring legacy of enslavement, while also celebrating the strength, faith, and contributions of Black communities.
This year, The United Church of Canada reflects on its ongoing commitment to truth-telling, confronting anti-Black racism, and pursuing justice and repair, including recent steps toward discerning a formal apology for the church’s historic connections to enslavement.
On this Emancipation Day, may we recommit ourselves to confronting anti-Black racism, addressing historic injustices, and building a church where all people experience belonging, dignity, and hope.
Read on to learn more about the significance of Emancipation Day and our shared call to build a more just and inclusive church.
Across the United Church, anti-racism initiatives are helping communities confront racism and work toward meaningful change. You can give to help support this vision and strengthen this vital work.
Does It Get Better? An Invitation to Participate in Harm Reduction Sunday
[Image credit: Pixabay | James Ronin]
Harm reduction services and supports for people who use drugs are increasingly under threat across Canada. Yet communities of faith are called to respond to the toxic drug crisis with care, dignity, and hope.
For Harm Reduction Sunday on August 30, 2026, the Rev. Jeffrey Dale invites us to consider: does it ever get better? And how can our communities help make “better” possible?
Read the full blog and learn how your community can take part.
Take the next step toward becoming an intercultural church with this six-week online CHURCHx course led by the Rev. Dr. Hyuk Cho. Explore shared woundedness, anti-racist formation, listening across difference, companionship, and the faithful practice of sharing power.
October 14–November 25, 2026 $40 per person | $70 for groups of up to 10
[Image credit: Mamohkamatowin Spiritual Community Inc.]
In Saskatoon, Mamohkamatowin Spiritual Community Inc. is helping Indigenous women and girls reconnect with culture through ribbon skirt making. With support from Mission and Service, participants receive free materials, learn sewing skills, and explore the cultural and spiritual significance of ribbon skirts with an Elder.
Your gifts help Indigenous-led programs strengthen identity, confidence, and community while carrying traditions forward.
The United Church Bookstore: Prepare for the Worship Season with Then Let Us Sing!
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
Then Let Us Sing! is fully restocked! Prepare your choir and musicians for the busy season ahead with more than 150 new songs from diverse voices around the world, curated to reflect United Church ethos and theology.
Choose the Full Music Edition for choir members or the spiral-bound Accompanists’ Edition for organists and other musicians. Save 15% when you order 24 or more copies of the Full Music Edition.
For more inspiring worship ideas and resources, subscribe to GatheringWorship.ca.
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