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, October 27, 2026
E-ssentials: Take Action for Cuba, Breaking Bread with Canadians, and more!
Watch. Write. Take Action for Cuba.
[Image credit: Cuban Council of Churches]
Cuban partners tell us that families are facing a profound humanitarian crisis, with shortages of food, medicine, fuel, and other essentials.
This is an important opportunity to act. Today, Canada will once again have the opportunity at the United Nations General Assembly to vote on a resolution calling for an end to the U.S. embargo against Cuba. Between 1993 and 2025, Canada has consistently voted in favour of Cuba’s annual resolution calling for an end to the U.S. embargo. On July 7 of this year, however, Canada chose to abstain from a vote on Cuba.
In this video message, the Moderator of The United Church of Canada is calling on us to raise our voices and stand in solidarity with our partners and the people of Cuba:
Breaking Bread With Canadians, Palestinian-Style
[Video still credit: The United Church of Canada]
Over the past several months, Palestinian chef and storyteller Izzeldin Bukhari has travelled across Canada, sharing Palestinian food, culture, and family stories with more than 2,000 people in United Churches and other communities. From British Columbia to Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto, these gatherings have offered Canadians a chance to discover Palestinian traditions and the people behind the dishes.
This past Thanksgiving, Izzeldin Bukhari joined Moderator Kimberly Heath for a special edition of "Kitchen Conversations with the Moderator." Watch all the episodes.
In a new blog post, Bukhari reflects on the power of breaking bread together—and how sharing food can open doors to understanding, challenge stereotypes, and bring people closer across cultures and experiences. Each meal offers an opportunity to learn about Palestine through its hospitality, its heritage, and the stories passed down through generations.
You're invited, alongside For the Love of Creation (FLC) members, to hold Candles for COP vigils during the UN Climate Change Conference.
Last year, more than 20 vigils were held across the country, drawing attention to the crucial global action and coordination needed to face and mitigate climate change. You can collaborate locally and post your event on this map.
40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism: Madison's Story
[Video Image still: The United Church of Canada]
As part of our 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism series, Madison Tyndale, an Afro-Indigenous woman, reflects on growing up as the only Black girl in the room and discovering her Indigenous heritage as she began to explore her identity.
Growing up in a predominantly White community, Madison experienced racism from an early age, without fully understanding what was happening to her. It wasn’t until university that she began to name those experiences and explore her Indigenous heritage. But reconnecting with her roots has brought its own challenges, shaped by family history, closed adoption, and the difficulty of finding connection with communities she longs to belong to.
What does it mean to search for belonging when you feel caught between worlds?
Madison's story is one of confronting racism, navigating a complex identity, and taking the first steps toward reclaiming her roots. She also reminds us that Afro-Indigenous people have unique stories to tell that deserve to be heard.
Watch her video and take a moment to reflect and pray with the accompanying prayer.
The United Church Bookstore: Selling Fast! 2027 Canadian Church Calendars
[Image credit: Robert Lesser | Almonte United Church]
Bring the church year to life with the 2027 Canadian Church Calendar: Draw the Circle Wide! Featuring colourful photos from United Church communities across Canada, this beautiful bilingual calendar celebrates the people and places that make up our wider church.
With church seasons, special days, and lectionary dates all in one place, it’s a practical and meaningful companion for the year ahead—and a thoughtful gift for your home, office, church, or someone special in your faith community.
Ordering for your church or community? Save more when you order in bulk!
Mission and Service Stories: Youth Leadership Animators
[Image credit: The United Church of Canada]
What does it mean to be a leader in the church? For eight young people from across The United Church of Canada, this summer was an opportunity to explore that question through the Leadership Animator program.
Leadership Animators gained confidence, explored their passions, and discovered the many ways they can be involved in the life of the church. They also brought fresh perspectives and voices to a wider church where youth leadership continues to grow in importance.
Thank you for supporting programs like the Leadership Animators through Mission and Service. Let’s give generously. Together, we’re helping young people grow in faith, discover their gifts, and shape the future of our church.
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