 In the latest episode of the Project Zion podcast, Shannon McAdam, Canada West Mission co-President, reflects on her life story as she looks forward to her new call to serve in the Council of Twelve.
From rule-following teenager to mischievous Gracelander, to volunteer leadership in the church and a career in technology and business sales, Shannon has spent her life journeying with God in community. A strong advocate for women and First Nation peoples, Shannon brings a deep passion and care for the needs of others, and the need to create a bigger circle of inclusion. Featuring a variety of topics, guests, and panelists Project Zion Podcast explores the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers today’s world. Full-length episodes post every Tuesday and Friday, with occasional bonus episodes or “extra shots” featuring partners and special interests posted in-between. Click on the button below to listen to Shannon’s episode and download the transcript from the Project Zion website.
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 By Mary Jean Belrose, Canada East Mission Centre Co-President
Church is more than a building—it is a place of deep connection, shared history, and sacred moments. But when numbers dwindle and energy fades, it can feel like something precious is slipping away. The natural instinct is to long for “the way things used to be.” Yet clinging to the past can prevent us from stepping into the future with faith. The good news? Decline is not the end of the story. With courage, openness, and a willingness to embrace change, new possibilities can emerge—if we are paying attention. Honouring the Past Without Being Bound by It It’s important to recognize and celebrate the legacy of a congregation—the lives changed, the ministries served, and the faith nurtured within the community. But nostalgia can sometimes blind us to an important truth: God is always calling us forward. Honouring the past means learning from it—carrying forward what still gives life while releasing what no longer serves the mission. Instead of asking, “How can we get back to the way things were?” a more helpful question is, “What is God inviting us to become?” Facing Fear with Faith Declining attendance, financial struggles, and an uncertain future can feel overwhelming. Change is risky, and it is often easier to stay in familiar patterns—even when they no longer work—than to venture into the unknown. But scripture reminds us: "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?" (Isaiah 43:19) Fear can keep us stuck. Faith calls us forward. What if, instead of seeing decline as failure, we saw it as an invitation to renewal? Exploring New Ways of Being Church The world has changed, and the church must adapt. This does not mean abandoning core beliefs—it means finding new ways to live them out. Consider these possibilities: • Small but Mighty Ministry – A small group of committed disciples can have a profound impact. What if, instead of focusing on numbers, we focused on meaningful engagement in mission? • Partnerships & Shared Spaces – Other churches, community groups, or nonprofits may welcome collaboration. Sharing space, combining ministries, or working together can create fresh energy. • Digital & Hybrid Ministries – Many seek spiritual connection outside traditional Sunday services. Could online gatherings, small groups, or outreach efforts extend your reach? • Missional Focus – Congregations grow when they serve. What local needs could your church address? Could you shift from “How do we bring people in?” to “How do we go out and serve?” A Call to Courageous Faith A struggling church is not a lost cause—it is a congregation at a crossroads. Moving forward requires courage, creativity, and deep trust in God’s guidance. We must practice spiritual freedom—letting go of preconceived ideas in order to allow God to lead. Jesus’ ministry was never about buildings or numbers; it was about people, transformation, and the breaking in of God’s kingdom. You are not alone, and you are not without options. God is still moving, still calling, still creating something new. The question is: Will you step forward in faith?  Take part in upcoming discussions about the resolution from the Canada East Mission Centre (CEM), which proposes the formation of a special bylaw committee to review and update Community of Christ bylaws with a governance focus (G-4).
Join members from around the world in these Zoom sessions, where you can learn more, ask questions, and contribute to the conversation. This resolution is a key legislative topic leading up to World Conference. Below, you'll find the schedule, the resolution text, and links for further information. Whether you're a delegate or simply interested in the future of Community of Christ, we encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to stay informed and engaged. 📅 Session Dates & Times: 🔹 Monday Pacific Time: 1:00–2:45 p.m. Mountain Time: 2:00–3:45 p.m. Central Time: 3:00–4:45 p.m. Eastern Time: 4:00–5:45 p.m. 🔹 Tuesday Pacific Time: 5:00–6:45 p.m. Mountain Time: 6:00–7:45 p.m. Central Time: 7:00–8:45 p.m. Eastern Time: 8:00–9:45 p.m. G-4 Resolution: Formation of a Bylaw Committee for Governance Review and Updates Resolved, That this Conference establish a Special World Church Committee to evaluate and recommend updates to bylaws and governance models, ensuring they align with the evolving needs of an international church with multiple national jurisdictions, while maintaining common consent as a core governance principle; and be it further Resolved, That this Committee present a report to the 2028 World Conference. Visit the Online Legislation Exploration Sessions page for more details and registration. Visit 2025 World Conference Legislation to review all proposed legislation for the upcoming World Conference.  'Toronto_temple3.jpg' by Lone Primate, licensed under CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Last week, leaders and members of Community of Christ had the unique opportunity to visit the Toronto Ontario Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Although LDS temples are normally restricted to members of that church who are in good standing, they are open for tours prior to their dedication, and after periods of renovation before being rededicated. Rulon Stacey, president of the LDS Toronto Mission, invited several Community of Christ leaders and members to special tours of the temple held before a general open house. Those attending included leaders and members of the Woodfield, Brydges Street, Grand Valley, and Toronto congregations. As communications officer for Community of Christ in Canada, Leandro Palacios was invited to a tour led by Kim Woodbury of the LDS Church Communications Department. Canada East Mission Centre Historian John Hamer participated in the tour with LDS Historian Helen Warner. The temple was first dedicated in 1990, but has recently undergone a significant renovation. With 5,162 square meters of floor space, it is relatively large for an LDS temple built in the 1990s. The temple includes some decorative nods to its location, including carpeting decorated with trillium flowers (the symbol of Ontario). Common to all LDS temples, the lower level includes a baptismal font that rests on the backs of twelve oxen, representing the Twelve Tribes of Israel — a nod to the basin that stood in front of Solomon’s temple as described in 1 Kings 7:23–26. In LDS practice, the basin is used for “ancestral baptism,” that is baptisms by proxy for persons who died without having been baptized into the LDS Church. The temple contains four “instruction rooms,” which include video projectors where members participate in the LDS endowment ordinance, which includes a video presentation. The instruction rooms are separated by curtains or “veils” opening into the “Celestial Room,” which is symbolically meant to represent heaven. The guides indicated that no rituals are held in the Celestial Room, but that the place is set aside for quiet reflection. The temple includes six “sealing rooms,” where LDS couples are married according to their tradition, which includes a belief that the couple and their children are “sealed together for time and all eternity.” The hosts were very open and generous in sharing this space that is sacred to their faith with their Restoration cousins in Community of Christ. Public tours are available Mondays through Saturdays from now until March 8 for anyone interested in a rare look inside an LDS temple. Find out more about this event at churchofjesuschrist.org.  John Hamer, Leandro Palacios, Linda Stacey, and Rulon Stacey outside the Toronto Ontario Temple. Image courtesy of Rulon Stacey  Don't miss sessions exploring the resolution submitted by members of the Canada East Mission Centre (CEM) concerning the sacred stewardship of our church's Temple and Auditorium in Independence and the principle of Common Consent (G-3).
On Wednesday, February 19 and Thursday, February 20, members from around the world are invited to join these Zoom sessions to learn more, ask questions, and be part of the conversation. This resolution is one of the key legislative items being explored ahead of World Conference. Please find the schedule and the text of the resolution as well as links to learn more below. Whether you are a delegate or even if you won't attend World Conference this year, we hope you'll take advantage of this opportunity to be in the know about the conversations that will shape the future of Community of Christ. 📅 Session Dates & Times: 🔹 Wednesday, February 19 Pacific Time: 5:00–6:45 p.m. Mountain Time: 6:00–7:45 p.m. Central Time: 7:00–8:45 p.m. Eastern Time: 8:00–9:45 p.m. 🔹 Thursday, February 20 Pacific Time: 10:00–11:45 a.m. Mountain Time: 11:00 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Central Time: 12:00–1:45 p.m. Eastern Time: 1:00–2:45 p.m. G-3 Resolution: Concerning the Sacred Stewardship of the Temple and the Auditorium in Independence, Missouri, and the Principle of Common Consent Resolved, That the Temple and the Auditorium in Independence, Missouri, be declared essential for the enduring mission of the church, and as such, any or all decisions regarding the sale or mortgage of the Temple and/or the Auditorium must be made in keeping with the principle of Common Consent by means of direct authorization by the World Conference of the church. Visit the Online Legislation Exploration Sessions page to learn more about these session and to register. Visit 2025 World Conference Legislation to read all the proposed legislation to be considered at the 2025 World Conference.  By Mary Jean Belrose, Canada East Mission Centre Co-President
Pastoral excellence is more than just good preaching or effective leadership—it is about embodying Christ’s love in every aspect of ministry. Those called to ministry are entrusted with the sacred responsibility of reflecting God’s grace, wisdom, and justice in all areas of life. True pastoral excellence is cultivated over time through intentional spiritual formation, ongoing learning, and deep relational engagement. People of excellence recognize their strengths and weaknesses but remain committed to continuous growth and improvement. The Marks of Pastoral Excellence A life of pastoral excellence is shaped by: • Integrity – Living out personal and ministerial ethics that align with Christ’s teachings. • Spiritual Maturity – Grounding ministry in prayer, scripture, and discernment. • Compassionate Leadership – Listening well, responding with love, and advocating for justice. • Commitment to Growth – Pursuing continual learning, accountability, and self-reflection. • Community Building – Nurturing healthy congregations and relationships. The Role of Healthy Boundaries Healthy boundaries—emotionally, spiritually, and relationally—are essential to pastoral excellence. Without them, ministers risk burnout, ethical missteps, and damaged relationships. Maintaining pastoral boundaries requires: • Recognizing the difference between serving and over-functioning. • Ensuring interactions remain respectful and appropriate. • Engaging in regular spiritual practices for renewal. • Seeking support and accountability from mentors or spiritual directors. • Practicing honest self-reflection, acknowledging mistakes and weaknesses, and striving for growth. A Call to Lifelong Formation Pastoral excellence is not about perfection; it is about faithfulness. It means continually striving to be more Christlike, deepening relationships with God and others, and fostering communities where all can flourish. Excellence is about being the best we can be with God’s help, approaching every task with care, skill, and honesty. People of excellence are influencers; they lift others up and create space for growth. They make people feel valued and empowered. Doctrine and Covenants 163:6a reminds us: "You are called to create pathways toward Christ-centered community. Be courageous and visionary, believing in the power of just a few vibrant witnesses to transform the world." How Do You Define Pastoral Excellence? What does pastoral excellence look like in your ministry? How can we support one another in this shared calling? Let’s continue the conversation.  On Sunday, February 23, Community of Christ is coming together to support the 2025 World Conference Special Offering. Contributions received this Sunday will help cover the costs of making World Conference a welcoming, spirit-filled experience for everyone, including translation services, worship, live streaming, and activities for youth and young adults. Join us in making this global gathering unforgettable!
The goal is to raise $100,000 USD. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference! Please choose any of the options below to participate: Interac e-Transfer - Donate from your online banking account. Send your gift to [email protected]. Canada Helps - Easy and secure way to donate online. PayPal - Easy and secure way to donate online. By Mail - Send cheques payable to Community of Christ to our office address: Community of Christ 355 Elmira Rd. N., Unit 129 Guelph, ON N1K 1S5. Please include a note saying "World Conference" with your gift. If you are not able to include a message with your online donation, please contact [email protected]. If you are in the USA please visit the 2025 World Conference Offering page to find out how you can participate. Thank you for being part of this global community. Your generosity helps bring us all together!  By Vonda DenBoer, Canada East Mission Centre Co-President
These are exciting times for the church in Canada! The Mission Design Team committees have begun their work, and we want to share a little about the process. A few years ago, we began this journey by traveling across the country, listening to members and friends. The stories and testimonies gathered during those visits became All Voices. From there, our Apostle, Art Smith, worked with leaders to develop a strategic plan that reflected those shared experiences of faith. At last year’s conferences, the final version of that plan--Onward Together —was introduced. The plan outlines three strategic functions for mission:
It also includes two supporting functions:
Alongside these priorities, the concept of a Mission Design Team was introduced, exploring the development of one mission centre for Canada. A call was made for volunteers to self-identify their interest in this work, and about twenty people stepped forward. Art then invited Shannon McAdam and me to co-chair the team’s efforts. Forming the Committees Shannon and I wanted to include everyone who had volunteered, but we quickly realized that one large committee would be unmanageable. To make the work more effective, we created smaller, focused committees. With volunteers across multiple time zones and varying availability, selecting teams and scheduling meetings was a challenge—but we made it work! The first meetings have taken place. Each team has read its mandate, shared individual interests, and discussed how we can build something new that enables Community of Christ in Canada to thrive. Each team includes members from both the east and the west, ensuring diverse perspectives. In addition to their work, we will also invite others to offer prayerful support and dialogue. Over the next four months, these teams will develop recommendations, which will be shared in June with congregations, reunions, and online. Ultimately, these recommendations will be presented at each mission conference, where we will determine our collective support for creating a unified mission centre for Community of Christ in Canada. Our Mandate The Mission Design Team’s mandate is: "To design a unified, Canada-wide Mission Centre to support the mission, programming, and diverse needs of Community of Christ members and stakeholders across the country. The team will prioritize alignment with the Community of Christ in Canada strategic plan, as well as the broader church’s mission and values." Meet the Teams We encourage you to engage with team members, ask questions, and offer feedback as they share their progress. Here are our five teams:
Finally, we invite you to hold this work in your prayers as we continue discerning the next faithful steps for Community of Christ in Canada.  Join the First Presidency’s Diversity and Inclusion Team for a thought-provoking dialogue series exploring selected Enduring Principles in today’s cultural climate. These 60-minute Zoom sessions offer a space for learning, reflection, and meaningful conversation.
Session topics:
To participate, register by emailing [email protected] For more on Community of Christ’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, visit: cofchrist.org/diversity-and-inclusion  “The restoring of persons to healthy or right relationships with God, others, themselves, and the earth is at the heart of the purpose of your journey as a people of faith.” D&C 163:2b
When: Sunday, Feb 23, 2025 Time: 2pm PT, 3pm MT, 4pm CT, 5pm ET, 11am HT, 10pm London, 8am Sydney +1 day As we journey toward World Conference 2025, we will go deeper into the concept of a just transition away from fossil fuels. How does G-5 keep hope alive for a sustainable future? Why is fossil fuel reduction critical for a just transition? Where are we really with renewable energy? And what does energy have to do with a hopeful future? These are questions we will explore on February 23. Join us for a challenging look at courage and hope! If you have not registered for this Zoom series, please register at: https://cofchristclimatejustice.org/register Those previously registered will receive the new links before the next webinar. Hosted by the North American Climate Justice Team. Sponsored by the GPNW Mission Center, Community of Christ. Open to all people of all faiths and traditions. |
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