By Darren LiepoldIt started out as a request by a young woman on Facebook: ‘Maybe Innisfail could host a rally in support of Black Lives Matter.’ This post attracted a few trolls. The young woman, in the midst of such …
Beneath the Surface
Encountering Racism in the Grocery Store By Chris Mah Poy It’s been a long time since I was called by a racial slur. I have to tell you that it still hurts as much as it did when I was …
Happy Birthday, United Church of Canada!
By Helen Reed, Presiding Officer This week, June 10th was the 95th anniversary of the official formation of the United Church of Canada. After years of talking and compromise and coming together in partnership, something was born that had amazing …
Okotoks United Church lunch program adapts to children’s current needs
Due to COVID-19, children around the world are staying at home, connecting to their teachers and classmates by video conferencing and struggling to keep up with their studies under the guidance of their parents. This is not easy for kids …
‘Many among us are in harm’s way simply because they are who they are.’
When the day of Pentecost arrived, they all met in one room. Suddenly they heard what sounded like a violent rushing wind from heaven: the noise filled the entire house in which they were sitting. Something appeared to them that …
A Reflection on Our Most Recent of Days Following the Murder of Mr George Floyd
By Rev. David Robertson Gracious God…we know that your heart echoes with the sorrow of our pain, and so, we bring to you all that is in our hearts today… These are opening words from a prayer of thanksgiving and …
Guidelines for reopening United Church communities of faith buildings and ministries
If you’d like to print the Re-Launch Guidelines, click on this link for higher resolution. Friends, COVID-19 is far from over. While our physical distancing has flattened the curve, infections and even deaths are still occurring. Those who are most …
United Church directly impacted by COVID-19 tells its story
Calgary’s Living Spirit United Church is choosing to tell the story of their experience with COVID-19 as a public service. As Rev. Shannon Mang says, “We don’t want another organization or faith community to go through what we’ve been through.” …
Living into the Now
By Helen Reed, Presider, Chinook Winds Region This morning, a song from my childhood popped into my head. It’s a song that celebrates the happiness brought by sunshine and enjoying the freedom of being outside in the sun. I looked …
Finances in Communities of Faith during COVID19
4 More Process Tips from Chinook Winds Region In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinook Winds Region and The United Church of Canada want to work with your community of faith to keep ministry vital and active. We will …