 Dear families, youth, and community members,
We are writing today to share an important and heartfelt update regarding Canada East Delegation Team’s participation in Spectacular 2025. After careful discussion and discernment, the Canada East SPEC Delegation with the support of the leadership of CEM and the Director of Camping and Campgrounds have made the difficult decision to cancel our group’s participation in this year’s Spectacular. We recognize Spectacular is a safe place and the organizers are committed to the safety and welfare of campers. This decision was not made lightly and is not because of anything that SPEC or the church has done but just because of political tensions. The well-being of our youth and staff must always remain our top priority. We know how meaningful SPEC is to many of you, a time of connection, spiritual growth, and unforgettable memories. That’s why this news may come with some disappointment. Please know that our commitment to your journey doesn’t end here. We see you, we value you, and we are actively seeking ways to continue nurturing that same spirit of community and growth here at home. If you hadn’t yet registered and were planning on registering, hearing this news might be shocking and disappointing. We're offering you space for conversation, support, and to answer any questions you may have. This moment calls for care and clarity, and we want you to know that your voices and feelings matter deeply. It’s also important to note that Spectacular is still taking place as scheduled in the U.S. If any youth and their families still wish to attend independently, they are welcome to explore that option, and we are happy to support with information wherever we can. Letters of invitation are available via world church for anyone traveling across borders. Canada West SPEC team is not affected by this decision and they are willing to include youth from the east who choose to attend, in their delegation. These are challenging times, and yet we continue to walk together, rooted in our shared values, love for our youth, and a commitment to building a safe, nurturing community for them to thrive. With gratitude and care, Alfredo Zelaya-Martinez On behalf of the Canada East SPEC Delegation Leadership Team Community of Christ – CEM
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 Apostle Shannon McAdam, along with Seventies Humberto Tinsman and Tyler Marz, will be in Ontario for several events, including two special opportunities to connect with the community before returning home.
July 5 – Meet & Greet in Chatham July 6 – Communion Service at Reaching Out Centre, Streetsville If you plan to attend either event, please RSVP to help organizers prepare:
We hope to see you there! For more information about the events click here:  Join us Saturday, June 21 as we explore EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) Tapping with Susan Grace Morgan Waite-Price. Located at 225603 Southgate Road, Dundalk, Ontario (near Hopeville), the doors will open at 11:30 a.m. for a potluck, and our event will begin around 1:00 p.m.
Sometimes called psychological acupressure, EFT is a holistic practice that uses fingertip tapping on meridian points to help reduce emotional distress, ease physical pain, and restore balance. This event includes live demonstration and guided practice. A donation is appreciated to help cover building and supply costs, but all are welcome—please come regardless of your ability to give. We can’t wait to see you there! For more information, email: [email protected]  Date: Saturday, July 5
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Location: Community of Christ, 174 Faubert Drive, Chatham A Light lunch will be provided. RSVP to Vonda at [email protected] Shannon would like to meet as many people as possible in Canada East, so we have arranged for a special opportunity in southwestern Ontario for you to get to know her a little better. Shannon is grounded in a deep sense of the Holy all around us. Her ministry flows from her love of people. She believes our strength is in our differences, and every voice is important. As part of the volunteer Canada West Mission Centre President Team, Shannon is known for her skillful and kind leadership and meeting facilitation. With Community of Christ Canada’s Creating Connection program, she has facilitated retreats where people who identify as “spiritual but not religious” can experience the blessings of community. As the new Apostle for Canada, Shannon shares the role with Apostle Lachlan Mackay. They are Apostles for Field 4, which includes: • All Nations Congregation • Australia Mission Centre • British Isles Mission Centre • Canada East Mission Centre • Canada West Mission Centre • Eurasia Mission Centre • First People Congregation • Pacific Islands Mission Centre • Western Europe Mission Centre Accompanying Shannon at our Meet and Greet in Chatham are: Humberto Tinsman - an ordained Seventy and dynamic young leader who works in Children and Youth Ministries. He served as the Youth Caucus President at World Conference 2025 and is a member of the Rio Grande Mission Centre. Tyler Marz - an ordained Seventy and seminary graduate. Tyler is a Spiritual Director, part of the Spiritual Formations Team, and was part of the worship planning team for World Conference.  For youth entering Grades 6–9
Theme: Many sparks, one flame This summer, give your child five unforgettable days at Ziontario’s Jr. High Camp—where adventure, creativity, and faith come together in one incredible experience. Each day will be packed with theme-based classes, electives, recreation, and everyone’s favourite: swimming! Some of this year’s electives include woodworking, baking, fishing, board games, kayaking, and banquet decorating. Evening activities will feature team challenges, movie night, campfire, and—on the final night—everyone’s favourite banquet and dance party. Come and make memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. “To make something special you just have to believe it's special.” – Mr. Ping, Kung Fu Panda Director: Shannon Dailey – [email protected] Registrar: Jennifer Russo – [email protected] Cost: $320 Register by July 1 to guarantee a camp t-shirt!  The June edition includes details about the upcoming Ziontario Conference (Annual General Meeting), campground clean-up, and more.
 Cathy Swain, 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. Having the remote site in Kitchener has been amazing. The Kitchener branch’ hospitality has made the experience so welcoming. I had the opportunity to stay with my cousin Joni in Kitchener. She has been able to attend all the Services with me in the evenings and has really enjoyed the group atmosphere as well. This was my first conference since I was a teenager, and I have never been a delegate before. Being in the remote location in Kitchener felt like a safe space to share my thoughts on the sale of Kirkland Temple, the nonviolence statement and promoting peace by reducing gun proliferation and violence. I would have never shared those thoughts if I had attended at World Church. The highlight for me was witnessing and sharing Church history. To have the opportunity to approve the first female Prophet/President for Community of Christ was reaffirming. To see everyone’s hands raised, in support of Stassi Cramm brought tears to my eyes. Then to be able to share the ordination service with my cousin and fellow delegates was a moment I will always treasure. I hope that we will always have a Canadian remote location so others -can experience World Conferences. Canada East Mission has worked hard to make this all run smoothly, and their efforts have really paid off. I am truly grateful to have spent time with my cousin’ family as well as my Church family. I knew going to Independence for me this year wasn’t possible but being able to attend in Kitchener was a gift. I encourage everyone to take part in World Conference; it’s time well spent in Community with Christ.  You're invited to gather with us on Sunday, July 6 at 11:00 a.m. at the Reaching Out Centre (125 Queen St. South in Streetsville) for a special Communion service with Apostle Shannon McAdam and Seventies Humberto Tinsman and Tyler Marz.
After worship, stay for a light luncheon, hear a brief presentation about Reaching Out’s ministry, and take time to connect with our guest ministers in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Please RSVP to Vivian if you plan to attend: [email protected] or 416-614-7167 |
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