Reflections from the Kitchener Remote Site

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. 
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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.