In the constitution of a democratic state, for us, the fundamental principle is the guarantee of freedom of conscience and freedom of expression for all citizens. The concept of secularism is a means of ensuring these freedoms. It should not limit them more than necessary. As a Church, we fully understand and support the concept of secularism. It is a guarantee of respect for everyone, regardless of their beliefs, cultural backgrounds or identities. In fact, as a Church, we do everything we...
Author: Éric Hébert-Daly
Rev. Éric Hébert-Daly is the Regional Executive Minister of Conseil régional Nakonha:ka Regional Council, Eastern Ontario Outaouais Regional Council and East Central Ontario Regional Council of The United Church of Canada. / Pasteur Éric Hébert-Daly est le ministre exécutif régional du Conseil régional Nakonha:ka, Eastern Ontario Outaouais Regional Council et East Central Ontario Regional Council de l'Église Unie du Canada.
As I walked the Camino del Norte about three weeks into my journey, I was a little ahead of my projected schedule. I had previously read about the Camino Lebaniego which split off from the del Norte and traveled four days south through the Picos de Europa and takes you to a monastery where the last large intact piece of the True Cross is kept. It is considered one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the world. I had spent some time in some terrain where I had the marks of...
Friends in Christ, We are currently in the midst of a Federal Election Campaign. As we all discern the future of Canada through the decisions we will be making, it is important for us to find a way to be prophetic and pastoral in this time. There are some who would claim that churches should simply be quiet during this time. Raising our voices about the kind of country we believe God calls us to build is entirely appropriate in times like these. We must also do so with care and compassion....
As the church looks back on 100 years and looks forward at the next ten, there are some stark realities we are facing. There is grief and frustration, anxiety and a feeling of helplessness. I am reminded of when Mary and Martha bemoan Jesus’ delay at the bedside of Lazarus… “If only you had been here…” (John 11). Why does it seem like God hasn’t answered our call and has been leaving the mainline Christian denominations like the United Church to wither? I understand the reaction to what we’re...
It is with great joy that we announce the arrival of two new team members at the Nakonha:ka Regional Council. Aviyah Abrams has been working with the Regional Council in supporting the Living in Right Relations Leadership Team’s project Respect & Kanoronhkwátshera over the last year. She has worked in the non-profit sector as well as for the Federal Government and comes with significant skills in the field of communications. Aviyah will begin her role as our Communications Assistant on...
United Church of Canada
- The Very Rev. Robert F. Smith, Moderator from 1984–1986, Passes Away December 9, 2025“Though the word of God may be unchanging, our understanding of it is constantly changing,” said Rev. Smith as he guided The United Church of Canada through fundamental changes, including dialogue… continue reading
- Vancouver School of Theology Receives Major Grant December 5, 2025The Vancouver School of Theology has received a major grant that will establish the Reimagining Theology Project.
- Celebrating a Decade of Full Communion December 5, 2025Livestreamed online worship service on Sat, Dec. 13, 2025, from 12–1 p.m. ET will celebrate a decade of full communion partnership between The United Church of Canada and the United Church of Christ.
- Statement Regarding Anglican Exit from Lease Agreement for Shared Office Space December 2, 2025The ACC has advised the United Church that it is withdrawing from its commitment to move into 300 Bloor St. W. We remain committed to the move, and are deeply grateful to the congregation of Bloor St… continue reading
- CBC Nonfiction Prize Winner’s Story Explores Disability and “Extreme Caregiving” December 2, 2025Laura MacGregor’s prizewinning story of caring for her son reveals huge gaps in attitudes towards disabilities. Her experience led to a crisis of faith, and formed the basis of her PhD thesis