 Happy New Year! As we enter 2026, let’s pause to look back at what happened in 2025. Throughout the last year, members and friends across Canada made history together. The unique and creative ways in which we all participated in the life of the church inspired many to share their experience. From reflecting on what happened during World Conference to life-changing experiences at camp events, and from simple pastoral visits to making the bold decision to become a single mission centre, the stories we shared speak of who we are, what we do, and what we believe in. This is Community of Christ! Community of Christ members tour the Toronto LDS temple (February 20, 2025) Members of Community of Christ were invited to tour the Toronto Ontario Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This was a unique opportunity that offered insight into their worship spaces and practices while strengthening relationships between Restoration traditions. A congregation sharing Light with its community (March 12, 2025) In Stratford, a congregation leans into a simple practice: showing up with warmth, consistency, and welcome. “Light” is not an abstract theme here—it’s what happens when we quietly choose to be present for our neighbours. Edmonton congregation partnering to provide hope (April 16, 2025) In Edmonton, a long-standing partnership with Y.E.S.S. becomes a living rhythm of service. A “Fun Walk” and “Service Sundays” gather members, friends, and staff to support youth in crisis. Encounter World Religions on CBC News and CityTV (April 23, 2025) Director Brian Carwana was interviewed by CBC News Network and CityTV Toronto following the death of Pope Francis. This affirms Encounter’s growing reputation as a Canadian voice on global religious issues. Inspired by Celebrate Mission, a seeker answers the call to serve (April 30, 2025) A seeker from Texas—who has since become a member of Community of Christ in Canada—shared how participating online led to concrete service in his local community. This experience illustrates how mission can emerge wherever people find meaningful ways to serve. New Priesthood and Personal Relationships policy now in effect in Canada (May 17, 2025) After months of shared discernment among members in Canada, the First Presidency approved a policy change removing cohabitation as an automatic barrier to priesthood service. The decision reflects careful listening, respect for differing responses, and the realities of ministry today in the Canadian context. Stassi Cramm ordained prophet–president; Resolution G-3 ruled out of order; Nonviolence Statement adopted (June 3, 2025) World Conference opened with the ordination of Stassi D. Cramm as prophet–president, marking a historic leadership transition. Shannon McAdam ordained apostle for Canada; gun violence resolution passed (June 4, 2025) In a moving ceremony at the Temple, with the chamber filled, Shannon McAdam was ordained by Apostles Art Smith and Robin Linkhart. Experiencing World Conference for the first time: A Canadian perspective (June 4, 2025) A first-time attendee describes the scale of World Conference and the impact of worship, debate, and participating in common consent as part of a global church. Reflections from the Kitchener Remote Site (June 4, 2025) A member of the Lowbanks congregation, shares highlights and personal insights from her experience attending World Conference 2025 at the Canadian remote site in Kitchener. Calgary member shares experience from Kitchener remote site (June 4, 2025) Another perspective from the remote site points to accessibility, cost, and community as reasons this model matters for future conferences. Richard James new president of the Council of Twelve. Art Smith honoured at Canada pizza night. Harmony service offers hope (June 5, 2025) Canadian delegates and friends gathered for a pizza night—an opportunity to reconnect, make new friends, and share stories over delicious food. Apostle Art Smith was honoured with a memory book and a painting of The Old, Old Path. Flashback to a 1917 reunion: Letter from a Canadian young adult at Erie Beach (June 11, 2025) A recently discovered letter offers a window into a Canadian camp reunion a century ago, reminding us that gathering, friendship, and shared purpose have long shaped church life in Canada. Get to know our new World Church leaders (June 18, 2025) Newly ordained apostles introduced themselves through short video profiles, helping names from World Conference become familiar faces and voices. Gratitude and Joy: Kathy McAdam reflects on her first World Conference (June 18, 2025) A first World Conference at age 70 becomes a personal milestone—full of worship, people, and big moments held with gratitude. Connection and calling: Jada Middleton’s first World Conference (June 25, 2025) A young adult reflects on her experience at World Conference—not just as an event, but as a turning point. How we found hope and renewal at the Summer Solstice Women’s Retreat (July 9, 2025) The retreat created space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with others. Hope showed up through conversation, care, and time together. Generosity is at the heart of mission at St. Thomas congregation (July 23, 2025) In St. Thomas, community life spills outward through open doors, shared meals, and practical support for neighbours. Generosity is not a one-time action here—it becomes a culture. Healing and belonging in Community of Christ – A seeker’s journey (August 6, 2025) A seeker describes the long road toward belonging and what makes it possible. His reflection tells us that growth comes through acceptance, relationship, and a community willing to make room. Developing young leaders at Hills of Peace (August 20, 2025) Youth Camp focused on leadership formation through participation, cooperation, and learning together. Junior Camp thrives within Family Camp at Hills of Peace (August 20, 2025) A “camp within a camp” model allowed two reunions to flourish together, showing that when we risk something new, wonderful things may happen. Choosing hope together at McGowan’s Lake Reunion (August 20, 2025) At McGowan’s Lake, the theme “Choose Hope” took shape through worship, service projects, learning, and the simple rhythms of being together. From silence to confidence: what we learned at the Noronto Sr. High Camp (September 4, 2025) Senior High Camp became a place where youth found their voices, grew in confidence, and experienced leadership as shared responsibility. Here and now: reflections from the Hills of Peace young adult retreat (September 9, 2025) Young adults slowed down, built relationships, and created space for honest conversation, discovering how presence itself can be transformative. Love in Action shone through at the 2025 Canada West Mission Conference (September 17, 2025) The Canada West Mission Conference was a celebration of community as members made the significant decision to move toward one mission centre for Canada. Just like coming home: Wendy’s journey back after 50 years (September 17, 2025) After decades away, Wendy’s return shows how welcome and relationship can make reconnection possible, even after a long absence. Welcome our new Canadian Seventies: Lisa Neudorf and Gwyn Beer (September 24, 2025) Two new Seventies were ordained during the Canada West Mission Conference, joining others in this important ministry of the church. Fellowship and camaraderie at the Hills of Peace Men’s Retreat 2025 (September 30, 2025) Fifteen men gathered for conversation, reflection, and practical support of camp life. Retreat and work blended naturally, and relationships were strengthened in the process. Noronto Canoe Camp – Reflecting on 26 years of tradition (September 30, 2025) A long-running canoe camp continues to form friendships and traditions year after year. CEM Conference 2025 – A weekend of community, dialogue, and joy (September 30, 2025) Canada East gathered for worship and decision-making at Ziontario campground. Delegates voted yes to joining Canada West as one mission centre. Carload of donations for children in need collected at CEM Conference (October 1, 2025) A simple invitation at CEM Conference resulted in a carload of donations for a local elementary school, turning our gathering into real mission that impacts lives. Continuing Revelation 1889 style! (October 8, 2025) A piece of Canadian church history is brought forward as a living reminder of how discernment has been recorded and remembered. It offers a small window into the long continuity of church life in Canada. History enthusiasts tour Community of Christ heritage sites in Canada (October 15, 2025) A heritage tour connected participants with early Canadian church history, reminding us that the events that shaped the early story of our church also took place in our country. A new model of shared leadership to move Onward Together (October 15, 2025) Apostle Shannon McAdam introduces the five directors who will share the duties that have traditionally been Mission Centre President responsibilities, as well as adding additional support, ministries, and programs to help us expand our possibilities as we walk onward together. Federal government recognizes Sionito as a model in the fight for housing justice (October 29, 2025) Our affiliate’s long work in affordable housing was recognized at the federal level. This experience exemplifies what it looks like when vision, hard work, partnerships, and justice commitments result in solutions that make our world a better place. Onward to the Future: Highlights from the 15th annual Young at Heart Retreat (October 29, 2025) People gathered at Noronto campground for learning, companionship, and reflection. A pastoral visit brings connection and care to members on Vancouver Island (November 5, 2025) A week of visits became a blessing of meals, conversations, and listening—small moments that keep people connected across distance. Thank you for turning imagination into generous action this Giving Tuesday (December 3, 2025) The year closed with an overwhelming display of generosity. Together, 761 donors from Canada, the USA, the UK, and Europe raised $858,738 USD, including a $375,000 USD matching fund. In Canada alone, 101 donors contributed $54,280 CAD. As 2026 begins, these stories stand together as more than memories: this is our shared history. I look forward to continuing to write history together with you in 2026. Our first opportunity will be when we gather on January 17 to affirm the bold step we took last September to move onward together as one mission centre in Canada. Walking together this new year with hope in our hearts, let’s celebrate our mission and share our story. As our hymn Now in This Moment says: “This is our story, this is our song!” Have a blessed and prosperous 2026, Leandro Palacios Director of Communications Community of Christ in Canada  At this year’s CEM Conference, attendees were invited to bring simple but essential items—socks, underwear, hats, mitts, and scarves—for children in need at Macphail Memorial Elementary School in Flesherton.
The response from participants was nothing short of extraordinary. A carload of donations was collected and delivered to the school, far surpassing what staff had expected. They were overwhelmed with gratitude, acknowledging that the abundance even exceeded their immediate needs, and promising to share any surplus with local agencies to ensure nothing goes unused. This generous outpouring is a beautiful witness of how a community’s compassionate response to a simple invitation can ripple outward, blessing not only one school but the wider community as well.  At the Canada West Mission Conference in Chilliwack, BC, Gwyn Beer and Lisa Neudorf were ordained to the office of Seventy during the Beyond the Walls service. In the testimony below, Gwyn reflects on how an unexpected call became a source of deep joy, how she and Lisa are stepping into this ministry, and their hopes for serving communities across Canada and beyond.
By Gwyn Beer The CWM Conference, September 12–14, 2025, was held in Chilliwack, my home congregation. On Sunday, September 14, during the Beyond the Walls service, Lisa Neudorf and I were ordained to the office of Seventy. For me, the call to Seventy was unexpected and came at a very busy time (but is there ever a “right time”?). Unprepared, and asked to respond within a week, I prayed. I also looked up the role of the Seventy in Community of Christ. In my deliberation, I pondered my call to Elder and now to Seventy. My heart sang out to me that Seventy is where I should be! This felt more “right” than Elder had. I had an immediate sense that I needed this, perhaps even more than those I hope to serve need a Seventy. About 12 days later (past the seven asked for, as I am often late), I called Seventy John Glaiser back. I accepted the call and began to work on my studies. I later heard that Lisa Neudorf had also accepted the call to the office of Seventy during the week leading up to conference. God works in wonderful ways! With Shirley Smith, we now have three Seventies in the western provinces of Canada—BC, Alberta, and Saskatchewan each have a Seventy. I feel we three will move forward together. Shirley Smith and Linda Klughart began a project to reach out to non-residents in the four western provinces. I want to keep reaching out to those who live outside a congregation. For me, this was the beginning of what I see as my chosen outreach. We will develop our own plans, and with Karin Peters and Joelle Wight to guide and advise, we will step forward in faith. Lisa and I, along with Shirley, will be opening our hearts and using our heads to serve all in Canada as we move out in faith, hope, and love.  Sometimes, transformation begins with something as simple as a shared meal—or even a box of cinnamon rolls. In one remarkable instance, someone who had never set foot in a church found themselves moved to offer what turned out to be a moment of grace. Was it an action led by the Spirit in someone who didn’t yet know how the Spirit leads? Whatever the cause, it opened a new path of connection, belonging, and ministry. At the St. Thomas, Ontario, congregation, the mission of Community of Christ is not an abstract idea—it’s something you can taste, share, and experience. Over the past several years, St. Thomas has cultivated a powerful ministry of connection through meals, partnerships, and community gatherings. Their $2 Dinners have become legendary, drawing hundreds of neighbours each time for a full roast beef meal at “yesteryear’s prices.” The initiative, inspired by the work of another congregation, has grown into a local tradition that fosters dignity, joy, and generosity. Many guests pay more than the suggested amount once they understand the spirit behind the meal. The impact is tangible—hundreds fed, friendships formed, and even spontaneous $1000 donations in support. This same ethos of trust and accessibility shapes their open-door policy for their Social Hall. Rather than charging standard rental fees, the congregation invites user groups to donate what they can. As a result, clubs and community groups feel welcomed, not exploited—and often respond with generous support for other outreach efforts. Their missional spirit extends into local schools, where the congregation supports snack programs and contributes to events that foster parent–teacher connection. It all began with a fundraiser years ago that provided playground equipment and blossomed into lasting relationships with educators and families. Sociables like Chocolate Bar Bingo, potlucks, and puzzle contests draw neighbours and newcomers alike into fellowship. Signature events like the annual Chili Cookoff and Dessert Auction blend laughter with generosity, raising thousands for local needs while building a resilient, joyful community. One story illustrates the quiet, transformative power of this ministry. A man attended the Celebration of Life for Jennifer, the wife of his friend Todd. Jennifer, a beloved member of the St. Thomas congregation, passed away suddenly in 2023. This man had never been to a service before and did not consider himself a believer, yet something stirred in him that day. The next evening, unprompted, he showed up at the family’s home with a box of cinnamon rolls. He did not know that Jennifer and her young daughter Avery had a tradition of sharing a cinnamon roll every time they visited the mall. He unknowingly offered a deeply meaningful gesture of comfort, becoming an instrument of ministry to the grieving family. That experience opened a door. Todd's friend and his wife began attending church, asking simply, “Are we allowed to come?” They not only came, they stayed—volunteering, serving, repairing parts of the church building, and becoming deeply engaged in the life of the congregation. His story reminds us that ministry happens not only through sermons, but in acts of kindness, hospitality, and presence. St. Thomas has created the kind of environment where people—sometimes without even realizing it—step into the work of the Spirit. The St. Thomas congregation reminds us that mission doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with what brings people together—meals, fun, service—and you may just find the Spirit in the midst of it all.  Kevin Thompson lives in Wichita, Texas. After years of searching for a spiritual home, he discovered Community of Christ through Beyond the Walls. Participating in the global ministry of Community of Christ in Canada, Kevin learned about Celebrate Mission, which inspired him to find ways to serve in his own local community. Although he isn’t connected to a nearby congregation, Kevin discovered a ministry that spoke to his heart.
On Sunday, April 27, members and seekers from around the world gathered online for worship and celebrated the mission Kevin accomplished. Later that day, another seeker who participates regularly shared this comment on YouTube: “I MYSELF RECEIVED MEALS ON WHEELS WEEKLY AND AM SO THANKFUL AND BLESSED FOR ALL THOSE WHO DONATE. THANK YOU.” Please take three minutes to read Kevin’s testimony below. His story reminds us how our ministries connect and empower people to live out Christ’s mission wherever they are. Kevin’s Story Last month during one of the Sunday services, Leandro made a point to emphasize that we should “celebrate mission” and highlighted the importance of spreading the word about ways we are able to serve. It made sense in that we could encourage others to serve and make people aware of opportunities where we, as Christians, can spread the love of Christ in our communities—be they local, national, or global. I felt inspired to reach out and report that I have found the perfect opportunity to serve in my local community in North Texas every week. Meals on Wheels is a program that makes sure that the disabled, elderly, and other homebound residents across Texas receive freshly prepared hot meals at lunch Mondays through Fridays without having to go shopping or prepare the meals themselves. Weekend and holiday meals are also provided. This service is available thanks to its dedicated employees and members of the community who volunteer a portion of their day (or days) weekly to hand-deliver the meals to our fellow residents. It is an opportunity for volunteers to connect with individuals who often have few, if any, opportunities on a daily basis to see or speak to another living human. We help to fight social isolation in a very real way. I have been blessed by the opportunity to serve the meals that Meals on Wheels provides. Pulling up to each residence, knocking on each door, and seeing the smiling face of whomever I am serving fills my heart with joy. I have had meal recipients say things like, “This is my favorite part of the day,” as they receive their meals with humble gratitude. It allows seniors to age in place in many instances thanks to the daily well-checks. We help many to avoid or delay the need for assisted living or a nursing home. At $7 per meal, the cost per home delivery adds up to less than 3% the cost of a nursing home. When we deliver each meal, we observe the state of the person’s overall wellness, guaranteeing that their living space is safe, adequate, and that they are functioning successfully there. A recent survey of programs shows 4,262 Health and Safety Interventions statewide where volunteers helped a client in distress. Meals on Wheels connects homebound residents to critical wraparound services such as medical care, home repair, and transportation services. The program is funded by local and state donations and grants and has a sizable economic impact. When considering employee salaries, vehicles purchased, food purchased, building acquisitions, and maintenance, at the state level it provides almost $200,000,000 in revenue. That’s 16.2 million meals provided with over 33,000 daily clients. Considering all this, the fiscally conservative state legislators have classified Meals on Wheels as not just another expendable social assistance program—it is seen as a vital community resource. This is how I have been inspired to live mission in my community and to celebrate mission with all of you! What are the ways you are living mission in your community? I urge you to share your story with us so that the entire Beyond the Walls community can celebrate with you.  By Troy Roach, Creating Connection Director, Canada East
Last month, I had the privilege of attending the Texas Men’s Retreat—a weekend filled with intentional connection, powerful storytelling, and personal growth. It was a gathering of 18 men, including five young adults, coming together to share their journeys and discover deeper connections with themselves, others, and their purpose. This retreat was more than just a meeting; it was a celebration of what happens when we intentionally create spaces for people to reconnect with who they truly are and find belonging in a supportive community. It’s in these sacred moments that ministry comes alive, revealing the good things happening within us and around us. Telling Our Story: Who We Are vs. What We Do One of the key themes of the retreat was the importance of telling our true story—not just the story of what we do, but the story of who we are. So often, we get caught up in the busyness of life and the responsibilities of ministry, forgetting to pause and reflect on what truly defines us. The retreat reminded me that our authentic story begins with three foundational building blocks: 1. Reconnecting with Self 2. Connecting with Others 3. Connecting with Purpose These elements are not just personal practices; they form the framework for how we live and lead as prophetic people, shaping ministries that reflect our true identity and mission. Reconnecting with Self The first step in telling our authentic story is understanding who we are. At the retreat, this meant carving out time and space for personal reflection. Through storytelling sessions and small group conversations, participants were invited to explore their own narratives—identifying what matters most and uncovering parts of themselves that often go unnoticed in daily life. Reconnecting with ourselves is not a selfish act; it’s the foundation for living with integrity and purpose. When we know who we are, we can lead from a place of authenticity, inspiring others to do the same. Connecting with Others Ministry happens in community, and the retreat was a powerful reminder of how vital relationships are to our story. Through shared meals, deep conversations, and moments of laughter, we experienced the transformative power of connection. It’s in relationships with others that our stories are shaped and refined. By listening and sharing openly, we help one another see our worth and purpose. These connections remind us that we are not alone in our journey and that together, we can create something greater than ourselves. Connecting with Purpose Finally, the retreat emphasised the importance of aligning our stories with a greater purpose. For some, this meant reconnecting with their faith or sense of calling. For others, it was about finding the courage to live more authentically in their daily lives. This alignment is where transformation happens. It’s where we discover the strength to let go of what no longer serves us and step boldly into who we are called to be. In ministry, it’s a reminder that our work is not just about programmes or events—it’s about helping others find their place in a larger story of hope, love, and belonging. Celebrating Mission Together The Texas Men’s Retreat was a beautiful example of what can happen when we intentionally create spaces for connection, reflection, and growth. It’s a reminder that ministry is not confined to traditional spaces—it’s alive in every conversation, every shared moment, and every story told from the heart. As we celebrate this retreat, let’s also celebrate the many ways our ministries are creating opportunities for people to reconnect with themselves, others, and their purpose. Let’s continue to tell the authentic story of who we are as a community—a story of love, inclusion, and transformation. Thank you for being part of this mission. Together, we are making a difference, one connection at a time.  By Kat Goheen, Canada West Mission Centre Co-President Last weekend, Chilliwack hosted a beautiful celebration, marking 125 years of worship in the Fraser Valley and 50 years in their current building. I was delighted to attend and was moved by the collection of newspaper articles, testimonies, and photos that were lovingly gathered—what a great reminder of the value of active historians! It was wonderful to see friends from afar who joined in the celebration, as well as the dedicated members who keep the congregation thriving. Thanks to Gwyn, we had the chance to tour the previous Chilliwack church, and I loved hearing stories of baptisms and weddings that took place within its walls. I’m so grateful I could be part of this special occasion. Here is Shannon’s reflection on the weekend: “I was fed both in body and in soul by the good food and good company of our people. It was fun to sing old songs and read old articles from the BC district newsletter. I was inspired by Art’s sermon that not only recognized the work of the congregation in the past but also the commitment to mission and care for those at the margins that carries the congregation forward into the future.” As we enter the busy season of Advent, I pray that you keep the spirit of celebration alive in your own gatherings with loved ones! |
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