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  • About
    • Values
    • Lived Experience >
      • The Congregation
      • The Mission Centre
      • The World Church
      • Mission in Action
    • Theology >
      • Enduring Principles
      • Mission Initiatives
      • Sacraments
      • Statement on Scripture
      • Principles of History
      • Generosity
      • Basic Beliefs
    • History & Heritage
    • Onward Together >
      • Strategic Plan
      • The Mission Centre Design Team
    • Board of Directors
    • Partners
  • Connect
    • Congregations >
      • Online Worship
      • What to Expect
    • Beyond the Walls
    • Blog
    • Stay Connected >
      • CWM Newsletter Signup
      • CEM Newsletter Signup
      • Online Worship Signup
      • Social Media
    • Contact a Minister
  • Give
    • Giving Tuesday
  • Canada West
    • CWM Dashboard
    • CWM Conference
    • CWM CAMPING 2025
    • News & Updates
    • Events Calendar
    • Staff Directory
    • Congregations
    • Creating Connection >
      • Blog
    • Campgrounds
    • CWM Archive
  • Canada East
    • CEM Dashboard
    • Events Calendar
    • CEM Camping 2025
    • CEM Conference
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News & Updates

Please offer your prayers for Dar Shepherdson, our Bishop

1/24/2024

 
Dar has been admitted to the hospital with a serious condition called Rhabdomyolysis (often called rhabdo). In addition to his underlying health conditions, Dar also has contracted COVID.
​
Your prayers would be greatly appreciated. ​

Save the Date:CEM Spring Conference, April 13

1/24/2024

 
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Get ready for an exciting and transformative event at the Spring Conference 2024 hosted by Scarborough Congregation, both in-person and online. The theme, "Ready to Risk Something New", sets the tone for a day filled with inspiration, creativity, collaboration, and spiritual renewal.


Keynote Speaker: 
We are thrilled to announce that Apostle Art Smith will be our keynote speaker, sharing insights and wisdom to inspire and guide us on our spiritual journey. He will also update us on the Canadian Church vision and mission.
Taking Risks and Embracing the New: 
Is your congregation prepared to embrace change and take bold risks? This conference will provide a space for exploration, creative ideas, and community building. It's an opportunity to reflect on the call to step into something new and exciting.
Legislation for World Conference 2025: 
We will also dedicate time to contemplate any legislation intended for World Conference 2025. If your congregation is considering presenting resolutions, please inform us in advance. This will help us prepare for a focused business meeting during our gathering.
Save the Date: Date: April 13 
Location: Scarborough Congregation / Online
Let's come together, ready to risk, embrace the new, and strengthen our bonds as a community. We look forward to your active participation. Watch for further information coming soon.

Help Engage People, Enrich Lives, Enhance Community

1/24/2024

 
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Would you enjoy meeting new people regularly around activities you most enjoy or themes you’re most passionate about?

Kitchener congregation of the Community of Christ is recruiting volunteers to lead or co-lead community-based midweek activities, primarily in the church fellowship hall (414 Fischer-Hallman Road, Kitchener). Activities need to meet our mission plan (engage people, enrich lives, enhance community) and facilitate the development of a community where all can find welcome and acceptance.

Maybe you’d like to run or help lead a weekly ‘Cards and Conversation’ group, or a monthly ‘Movies That Matter’ group. It might be a climate action group, a meditation group, a study group, a self-defense group for teenage girls, or something else that you have a special interest in.
​
If this is something you’d like to be part of, email Joan Thompson and we’ll explore this further. Compensation can be arranged if needed for you to be able to dedicate your time.

“The Next Step Together:Time to Join a Climate Support Group!”

1/24/2024

 
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The North American Climate Justice Team Climate Action Webinar Series: Restoration to Right Relationships

Webinar – Sunday, January 28, 5 p m ET
ZOOM Online Ministry


In January, we explored a variety of support groups representing a variety of interest regarding climate issues including eco-anxiety, personal lifestyle changes, greening your congregation, climate advocacy, biodiversity and habitat preservation, how to talk to others about climate change, and how to engage with young people passionate about climate issues.
On January 28, choose a support group and begin tailoring it to fit your passion, interest, skills and schedule. Support tools and team facilitators will be available to help groups start. Invite your friends. No prior experience is necessary. Participation in previous webinars is not required. And the Climate Justice Team will support but not dictate the result. Support groups will be independent and can continue networking on their own, based on the needs and interests of the members.
Our February webinar will feature guest presenter Dani Lindamood, sharing “Grassroots Organizing for a Sustainable Water Future.”
If you registered for a past webinar or conversation, you do not need to register again. Once registered, you will be sent a Zoom link before each webinar and activity.
This is an online ministry sponsored by the Greater Pacific Northwest USA Mission Center for Community of Christ. The North American Climate Justice Team are the planners, with members from GPNWMC, Canada East, Canada West, IWMC, SPMC, and SPIMC.

Worship With Us - January 21

1/19/2024

 
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Beyond the Walls –

According to the story in Matthew’s Gospel, Satan offered Jesus three temptations: (1) Focusing on material needs, (2) the lure of fame, and (3) lust for power. Jesus rejects mortal temptation and focuses on what matters most eternally with answers grounded in scripture. Spencer Greenhalgh of Lexington, Kentucky, will help us explore this text’s relevance in our lives today as we consider the theme, “Live By Bread Alone?”

We invite you to share this hour of reflection, prayer, meditation, music, and fellowship with the Beyond the Walls global community on 📅 Sunday, January 21, 2024. If you are near Toronto, we invite you to join us in person at: 

💒 320 Richmond Street East, Suite 101. Toronto, ON M5A 1P9. 
Otherwise, join us on live video as usual: 
⏰12:00 PM EST YouTube: https://youtu.be/-Yb2EQe6Egk 
⏰12:00 PM EST Facebook: https://fb.me/e/1KthEjQRm 
⏰6:00 PM EST YouTube: https://youtu.be/PjYhKszNDKk 
⏰6:00 PM EST Facebook: https://fb.me/e/33yX32uRN 

ORDER OF WORSHIP
Prelude: Il Neige by Henrique Oswald
Greetings: John Hamer – Toronto Centre Place
Call to Worship: TBD
Opening Hymn: CCS 452 - Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley
Invocation: TBD
Peace Lesson: Lew Shepherdson
Global Welcome: Leandro Palacios – Toronto Centre Place
Hymn: CCS 451 - The Glory of These Forty Days
Lectionary (Matthew 4:1-11): TBD
Sermon: Spencer Greenhalgh
Meditation: Leandro Palacios
Closing Hymn: CCS 250 - How Firm a Foundation
Sending Forth: John Hamer 
Postlude: Voluntary VII in G Major by John Alcock, Jr.

A bulletin with the order of worship is available at https://www.centreplace.ca/bulletin ​
Join the Chorister
Congregational Schedule
Pathways to Universal Peace - A World Religion Day Celebration - Community of Christ joins the Baha'i Local Spiritual Assembly in the City of Barrie to present the annual World Religion Day gathering focused on the theme "Pathways to Universal Peace" 1:00-3:00 p.m. The program will include a land acknowledgement, greetings from dignitaries, children's performances of cultural song and dance, local live music, sacred readings, speakers from the Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Sikh, Baha'i, and Christian faith traditions, an open Q&A discussion, light refreshments and snacks. LOCATION: City Hall Rotunda, 70 Collier Street, Barrie, ON L4M 4T5. See additional details on Facebook.

World Religions Day - Woodfield Community of Christ, as part of the Multi Faith Committee will be participating in a service of Music by different faith traditions this Sunday at 6:00 p.m. The program is being hosted by St Andrew's United Church, Queen's Ave, London. Click for bulletin.

SLIM (Sharing Love in Mission) - 1:45 p.m. James Stytle pesiding over the service with a focus on Peace and Justice. Contact Don Robb for Zoom info.

Other Online Ministries are available from many varied places for you to connect with.

Prophet/President Designate Announced

1/18/2024

 
A Letter to the Church from the Council of Twelve Apostles
 In March 2023, President Stephen M. Veazey invited members and friends into an intentional process to discern the next prophet-president of Community of Christ. In August, President Veazey experienced a health issue that necessitated a medical leave of absence. The remaining members of the First Presidency believed the ongoing discernment process should proceed in accordance with President Veazey’s original plan.

After reviewing succession guidance, scripture, and policies, the First Presidency asked the Council of Twelve Apostles to accept the sacred responsibility of calling the new prophet-president.

The church extends its deep gratitude to the apostles for their willingness to assume leadership in the unfolding discernment. Their stewardship of this sacred responsibility has been faithfully fulfilled on behalf of the church. The following letter from the Council of Twelve Apostles regarding the calling of the next prophet-president is offered to the church for prayerful consideration.
Read Full Announcement

Our Deepest Condolences

1/16/2024

 
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Dennis Lachlan McKelvie September 21, 1934 - January 8, 2024
Dorothy Joan McKelvie May 12, 1933 - January 8, 2024



It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Dennis Lachlan McKelvie (September 21, 1934) and Dorothy Joan (nee Kosmack) McKelvie (May 12, 1933), after courageous long term battles with extensive illnesses. As they shared a life of over 65 years together on this earth, they chose to leave it together through the MAID program surrounded by family, January 8, 2024.
Dennis grew up in New Liskeard, Ontario excelling at school and all sports. He went on to graduate from Haileybury School of Mines before accepting a full academic scholarship to Queens University earning a Bachelor of Science Geological Sciences (Engineering) degree. He taught Chemistry and was head basketball coach at Oakville’s George E Purdue High school before embarking on his career in geology, providing the impetus to move his family West (North Vancouver) in 1966. Over the next 40+ years, his expanding career opportunities moved he and his family throughout BC and Alberta before settling in the Lower Mainland and eventually Salt Spring Island.
For work he travelled across Europe, Asia, Central and South America. While he was self taught at playing both the piano and clarinet, he was also an ordained minister. When he wasn’t fishing or hacking up the golf course, he truly enjoyed spending time with his many cherished friends from church.
Joan was born and raised in Kirkland Lake, Ontario. In addition to supporting the family, she became a highly sought after Executive Assistant. She was musically gifted participating in all ways possible. She sang beautifully whether it was solos, choirs, the Sweet Adeline’s or with a group of friends. She was especially proud of her efforts in creating, organizing and conducting the “Grande Cache Choir” which took the town by storm. A tremendously loving and caring individual who strived to help everyone needing support or being someone to just listen.
Beyond being terrific parents, Dennis and Joan were a loving and committed couple. They shared everything together driven by adoration, patience and a level of devotion that was truly inspirational. Any one who saw them together knew they were true soul mates and hoped their own personal relationships could be as strong.
Dennis and Joan are survived by their three children Scott (Denise), Darrin (Lisa) and Heather (Jason), plus grandchildren Jessica, Brian, Devon, Amanda, Brittany, Kylie, Logan and Kole. They were also blessed with great grandchildren, Josephine, Cecilia, Dakota, and Elijah.
The family would like to extend its sincere appreciation to all the staff at Heritage Place, BraeHaven, Greenwoods Elder Care and Lady Minto Hospital for their unbelievable dedication and attention provided over the past few years. Your presence in their lives helped to make their last days as enjoyable and peaceful as possible. Also, special thanks to Dr Rustad for her on going support to the family.
As per their request, in lieu of a service and flowers, please forward donations to BC Cancer and the SPCA on their behalf.
Scott and Denise McKelvie

Online Doctrine and Covenants

1/15/2024

 
As we approach Christmas, International Headquaters shares a special gift that will enrich our spiritual journey and deepen our connection to the scriptures.

 An online searchable version of the Doctrine and Covenants is now available in English, French, and Spanish on CofChrist.org.

Although G-5 Universal Scripture Access was not approved at 2023 World Conference, the First Presidency supported the desire to provide greater access to our sacred scriptures. As a result, the Communications Team has been working since conference to bring this gift to life.

May this gift be a source of inspiration, reflection, and joy.

And the Winner is...Morgan Pigeon!!

1/15/2024

 
Exciting news – we have a winner for the World Accord t-shirt design contest, and the honor goes to Morgan Pigeon! Let's take a moment to celebrate this incredible talent.
Morgan, a 20-year-old digital art enthusiast from Ottawa, has beautifully captured the spirit of World Accord in his winning design. His passion for our organization shines through, and we're grateful for his support.

In Morgan's words, "I know about your organization, and I thought that it would be nice to show my support for all of you. Thank you for this opportunity and ultimately your support."

A huge round of applause to Morgan! 🏆 Your creativity and dedication have earned you the well-deserved first place. Bravo!

The contest spanned the entire summer, with a voting period over the last few months to determine the design featured on World Accord's 2024 summer t-shirts. Morgan receives a $100 gift card to his favorite shop as a token of our gratitude.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated. Your creativity and passion have made this contest truly special.
​
Stay tuned for the release of our World Accord t-shirts in the summer of 2024! We anticipate a high demand, so get ready to place your order and wear a piece of our collective creativity.
Once again, congratulations to Morgan, and a big thank you to all participants!

Leading The Church Through Transformation, Change and Renewal

1/15/2024

 
Facilitator: Betty Pries  
January 23 -26, 2024
9 am - 12:30 pm EST
ONLINE (Conrad Grebel University College)
Cost: $325.00 + HST 

Frequently we hear that people resist change. Does this have to be true? Could we find ways of engaging change, transformation and renewal that energizes the church while allowing the church to live more fully into the future to which God is calling forth? This workshop explores the dynamics of leading change as well as drawing from both the congregational life cycle and the rhythms of the journey of renewal.

This is recognized as a required course for those pursuing the Certificate in Conflict Management and Congregational Leadership. 

Participants come with questions such as:
  • How do we bring diverse views together?
  • What is the role of the Church in secular society?
  • How does leadership change something in motion?
  • Can you renew without change?
  • How can we move from maintenance to mission?
  • How to manage "resisters" actively sabotaging change?
  • How can we move past "Stuck" and start to tell a new story?   

Click for more information and to register.
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