<![CDATA[Community of Christ in Canada

<![CDATA[Community of Christ in Canada - Events Blog]]>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 01:23:17 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[How can we respond to the suffering in Gaza and the West Bank?]]>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 20:54:23 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/how-can-we-respond-to-the-suffering-in-gaza-and-the-west-bank

By John Hamer, Director of Outreach and Innovative Mission

Immense suffering continues in Gaza and the West Bank even as media attention has shifted. Many of us in Canada want to help but may not know what meaningful action can look like.

As part of our commitment to peace and justice, Community of Christ has joined Churches for Middle East Peace, an ecumenical organization that works alongside Palestinian churches, charities, and NGOs seeking to alleviate suffering and support communities in the region.

Destiny Magnet, Program Manager for Churches for Middle East Peace, will speak at the Greater Toronto Area Peace Forum, bringing insights from her experience with programs such as And Still We Rise, which creates space for Palestinian women to build community, experience transformation, and take action. Join us to learn more about this work and explore ways in which we can respond.

The Greater Toronto Area Peace Forum will include many other presentations, workshops, and intergenerational activities! This is a great opportunity to connect with church members and to invite young people in our network who are more interested in activism than Sunday services.

When: Fri, Oct 16 – Sun, Oct 18, 2026
Where: Reaching Out Centre, 125 Queen Street South, Mississauga ON L5M 1K9

FIND OUT MORE AND REGISTER

]]><![CDATA[Explore Canada’s temperate rainforest at the Vancouver Peace Forum]]>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 19:44:20 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/explore-canadas-temperate-rainforest-at-the-vancouver-peace-forum

By Lanette Vawter, Director of Leadership Development

The International Peace Forum is just around the corner, taking place October 16–18! Gathering together is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect in person, build a greater sense of belonging, and renew our commitments to the church and its activities.

In Vancouver, we will focus on environmental justice and action as we deepen our commitment to the Sacredness of Creation through formation, public witness, and community building. This is also a meaningful opportunity to invite young people in our networks who are looking for ways to make a difference for our planet.

🌲 Featured activity: Lynn Valley Temperate Rainforest

On Friday afternoon, October 16, join us for a one-hour walking tour through the temperate rainforest of Lynn Valley. This will be an opportunity to notice the many ways the forest regenerates itself and how humans can either negatively or positively affect these natural processes. Come and experience the healing properties of the rainforest as well as learning how to live in harmony with it.

Other activities throughout the weekend include:

🍃 experience keynote presentations streamed from the international Peace Forum gathering
🌲 explore creation during a guided visit to the Lynn Valley Temperate Rainforest
🧘‍♀️ practice mindfulness and spiritual reflection through guided awareness and meditation
🌎 take meaningful action through a community river cleanup
🧵 learn practical sustainability skills during the “Sew It, Don’t Throw It!” repair workshop
🎵 build community through shared meals, music, conversation, and fellowship

The Vancouver Peace Forum webpage has everything you need to plan your weekend, including information about registration, fees, accommodations, and the full schedule.

Learn more and register

Inquiries: peaceforum.vancouver@communityofchrist.ca
When: Fri, Oct 16 – Sun, Oct 18, 2026
Where: Community of Christ Vancouver, 3333 Kaslo Street, Vancouver, BC V5M 2M1

]]><![CDATA[Board meeting open to all members — Sep 15, 2026]]>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 19:06:59 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/board-meeting-open-to-all-members-sep-15-2026

The Board of Directors of Community of Christ in Canada invites all members across Canada to participate via Zoom in its Q3 meeting this Tuesday, Sep 15, 2026. As an observer, you’ll be able to learn more about the work of the Board and stay connected with the structures that support our shared ministry, stewardship, and mission in Canada.

The Canada Board of Directors functions as the governing body of the not-for-profit corporation for the church in Canada, overseeing policies and conducting business on behalf of the church within the theological and governing policies of the World Church. The Board is accountable to the membership in Canada and works in cooperation with World Church leadership so the church can meet in-country legal and practical requirements.

The Board’s agenda includes strategy and policy discussions, review of the draft 2027 budgets, and approval of the Q2 2026 Agency Agreement reports. Previous Board reports and meeting minutes are available on the Community of Christ Corporation Board page. If you have questions in advance, please contact Bishop of Canada Sam Smalldon at sam@communityofchrist.ca.

Date: Tuesday, September 15
Time: 4:30 p.m. PT / 5:30 p.m. MT / 6:30 p.m. CT / 7:30 p.m. ET

Join the meeting on Zoom

Meeting ID: 84290594299
Passcode: 457837

]]><![CDATA[Clean energy and a future beyond fossil fuels—Climate webinar, Sep 20]]>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 19:01:26 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/clean-energy-and-a-future-beyond-fossil-fuels-climate-webinar-sep-20

What role has NASA played in helping us understand climate change, and what alternatives can help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels? The September climate webinar, hosted by the North American Climate Justice Team, welcomes retired NASA scientist and Community of Christ minister Stephen Dunagan to explore both questions.

During his NASA career, Dunagan helped design, calibrate, and test instruments used by the Earth Science community to measure and understand climate patterns. On September 20, he will share insights from that work and examine the current state of clean energy alternatives, including solar, wind, geothermal, nuclear, and hydrogen systems. The webinar will consider how reliable, economical, and sustainable these options are as we look toward a future less dependent on fossil fuels.

Date: Sunday, September 20
Time: 2:00 p.m. PT / 3:00 p.m. MT / 4:00 p.m. CT / 5:00 p.m. ET
Where: Zoom

(If you registered for a past Climate Justice webinar, no new registration is required. You’ll receive the Zoom link automatically.)

Download the informational brochure

]]><![CDATA[2026 Saskatchewan Homecoming — Regina, Oct 23–25]]>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 18:55:10 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/2026-saskatchewan-homecoming-regina-oct-23-25

Community of Christ members across Saskatchewan are coming together October 23–25 in Regina for a special weekend of meaningful activities to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and celebrate our heritage.

Whether Saskatchewan is home, you have family or friends connected with one of our congregations, or you would simply like to be part of this celebration, we would love to welcome you!

Our theme is Onward With Love. Throughout the weekend, we will share in spiritual practices, meals, fellowship, a Saturday afternoon community service activity, a hymn sing, Communion worship, and fun activities for all ages.

Please register by Sunday, October 18. Be sure to register everyone in your family who will attend and include the ages of children and youth so organizers can plan activities for them.

Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation and breakfast. All other meals and snacks will be provided. The Regina Congregation building is wheelchair accessible. A detailed schedule will be shared with registered participants closer to the event.

When: Friday, October 23, 7:00 p.m.CT – Sunday, October 25, 1:00 p.m.CT
Where: Regina Congregation, 4710 8th Avenue, Regina, SK
Guest ministry: Stephen and Marian Thompson
Director: Gregg Lester
Cost: There is no registration fee. Donations are gratefully accepted.

Download the information flyer

]]><![CDATA[Understand the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict at the GTA Peace Forum]]>Wed, 02 Sep 2026 20:10:55 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/understand-the-israeli-palestinian-conflict-at-the-gta-peace-forum

By John Hamer, Director of Outreach and Innovative Mission

The wars in the Middle East have had dramatic effects here in Canada. In his presentation at the Greater Toronto Area Peace Forum, Brian Carwana of the Encounter World Religions Centre proposes to help us step away from the noise of social media in order to better understand the historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He will explain the stories of this land and these peoples and explain how key events in the past have led us to this place of conflict.

Listeners will learn:

The impact of key events in the past century including wars, peace attempts, and protests
The impact of key figures who won Nobel Prizes and suffered assassinations
How antisemitism and a history of persecution impact Jewish attachment to Israel
How anti-Arab racism has led to the patronizing and ignoring of Palestinians
A greater understanding of how each side interprets history and their place in this story

The presentation aims for balance by sharing facts as well as explaining both pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian perspectives to help listeners understand different stances and interpretations. Dr. Carwana has given this presentation in many settings including workplaces, community groups, the general public, with both Jews and Muslims present, and the response has been consistently positive.

The Greater Toronto Area Peace Forum will include many other presentations, workshops, and intergenerational activities! This is a great opportunity to connect with church members and to invite young people in our network who are more interested in activism than Sunday services.

Registration now open

]]><![CDATA[Reimagining Christian identity in a multi-faith world — book club returns Sep 10]]>Wed, 26 Aug 2026 20:20:40 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/reimagining-christian-identity-in-a-multi-faith-world-book-club-returns-sep-10

ur book club returns this fall with the theme Reimagining Christian Identity in a Multi-Faith World. Join us as we read and explore Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha, and Mohammed Cross the Road? by Brian D. McLaren together. In this work, American author, public theologian, speaker, and activist Brian D. McLaren explores how Christians can hold a strong and meaningful faith identity while relating to people of other religions with humility, respect, and generosity.

Over eight weeks, we’ll begin each session with prayer before exploring and discussing a set of chapters together. This isn’t intended to be an academic study, but a safe space for reading, reflection, and conversation.

Facilitated by Beyond the Walls community members Vickie Thatcher and Don Wiley, sessions will take place Thursdays at 5:00 p.m. PT / 6:00 p.m. MT / 7:00 p.m. CT / 8:00 p.m. ET. The book is available for purchase online, but we encourage you to check your local bookstore or library first.

Sep 10 — Week 1: The Crisis of Identity and the “Third Option” — Chapters 1–5
Sep 17 — Week 2: The Historical Challenge — Unmasking the Imperial Virus — Chapters 6–11
Sep 24 — Week 3: Doctrinal Healing — Creation, Sin, and Election — Chapters 12–14
Oct 1 — Week 4: Reimagining the Divine — Trinity, Christ, and Spirit — Chapters 15–18
Oct 8 — Week 5: The Liturgical Challenge — Rethinking the Christian Year — Chapters 19–21
Oct 15 — Week 6: The Table and the Altar — Eucharist and Interpretation — Chapters 22–23
Oct 22 — Week 7: Subversive Friendship and “With-ness” — Chapters 24–26
Oct 29 — Week 8: The Missional Challenge — Organizing for the Common Good — Chapters 27–29

Hosts: Vickie Thatcher and Don Wiley
Dates: Thursdays, Sep 10–Oct 29
Time: 5:00 p.m. PT / 6:00 p.m. MT / 7:00 p.m. CT / 8:00 p.m. ET

Join us on Zoom

]]><![CDATA[Sr High Thanksgiving Retreat — Ziontario, Oct 9–12]]>Wed, 26 Aug 2026 20:08:49 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/sr-high-thanksgiving-retreat-ziontario-oct-9-12

Sr High campers, get ready for Thanksgiving weekend at Ziontario Campgrounds! Spend time with friends old and new while enjoying fall activities, a Thanksgiving feast, movie night, trivia, trail walks, a harvest festival, and even something spooky. 👻🎃

Whether you're returning or joining us for the first time, come enjoy a weekend of laughter, games, good food, and time together at camp. Pack for cool fall weather and remember to bring bedding, warm layers, any medications you need, a refillable water bottle, a phone charger, and a canned food item for the food drive. If you haven't already paid your registration fee, you can also pay at camp. Tell your family and friends — we don't want you to miss out!

When: Fri, Oct 9, 8:00pm – Sun, Oct 12, 12:00pm
Where: Ziontario - 344516 North Line Priceville, ON
Camper Grades: 9 - first year university
Staff Ages: 21 and up
Leader in Training (LIT) ages: 19–20
Directors: Jillian and Joycelyn Dailey
Inquiries: thanksgivingretreat.ziontario@communityofchrist.ca
Registration Deadline: Midnight Sep 25
Staff Registration Fee: $140
Camper Registration Fee: $175
Bring a Friend Discount: Bring a friend to the retreat that hasn't attended a Community of Christ camp before and they can get a $25 discount when they register. Discount code: THANKSFRIENDS

Never been to Ziontario? Discover a place where generations of campers have gathered to enjoy camps, retreats, friendship, and fun surrounded by the beauty of nature near Priceville, Ontario. Visit ziontario.ca

All Camp Events

]]><![CDATA[Beyond the Walls on the road — Calgary congregation, Sep 13]]>Wed, 26 Aug 2026 20:04:34 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/beyond-the-walls-on-the-road-calgary-congregation-sep-13

As a program of Community of Christ in Canada, Beyond the Walls seeks to highlight the unique expressions of ministry taking place across Canada. In the past year alone, 39 individuals who hold priesthood in the Canada Mission Centre have provided ministry in a Beyond the Walls service. In recent years, the Chilliwack congregation in British Columbia, the Woodfield and Kitchener congregations in Ontario, and the Ziontario campground have hosted Beyond the Walls services, allowing local voices to be heard far beyond their usual audiences while creating opportunities for people in the area to gather for worship and fellowship.

This time, Beyond the Walls travels to Calgary, Alberta, on Sep 13 for a special service with the Leadership Team of Community of Christ in Canada and the Calgary congregation. Director of Leadership Development Lanette Vawter will be our speaker. Whether in person or online through our usual YouTube and Facebook livestreams, we hope you will join us on September 13.

Date: Sunday, Sep 13
Time: Doors open at 9:00 a.m. local time. The service begins at 9:00 a.m. PT / 10:00 a.m. MT / 11:00 a.m. CT / 12:00 p.m. ET.
Location: Calgary Community of Christ 422 11 Ave. SE #112 Calgary, AB

Watch on YouTube

Watch on Facebook

]]><![CDATA[Erie Beach Family and Friends Retreat — Sep 11–13, 2026]]>Wed, 19 Aug 2026 19:42:10 GMThttps://www.communityofchrist.ca/events-blog/erie-beach-family-and-friends-retreat-sep-11-13-2026

Join us at Erie Beach Campground for a relaxing weekend with family and friends. Enjoy good food, youth activities, outdoor games, free time, a movie, and plenty of opportunities to visit and have fun together.

Bring your favourite cards, board games, crokinole boards, or outdoor games to share. Saturday will also include a silent auction supporting Erie Beach Campground, with campers invited to contribute new or like-new items, baked goods, or canned goods.

The weekend wraps up Sunday with the annual Erie Beach Campground Fall Conference and a worship service.

When: Fri, Sep 11, 7:00 PM EDT – Sun, Sep 13, 12:00 PM EDT
Where: Erie Beach Campground, 830 Towanda Blvd, Blenheim ON
How to register:
Please contact our registrar Lori Tinline loridoug84@gmail.com
Directors: Brian Jackson and Michelle Hannah
Inquiries: eriebeachcampground@gmail.com
Registration Fees: $80 per individual, $140 per couple and $160 per Family
If you are requesting a dorm, please let us know so we can reserve one for you. Registration will also be available at the campground on Friday, Sept 11.

All camping Events

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