2009 Annual Report - The United Church of Canada

eport 2009
annual
The United Church of Canada • L’Église Unie du Canada

The United Church of Canada
We celebrate the 2009 mission and ministry of United Church of Canada
congregations: 3,300 United Church congregations
worshipped in our 13 Conferences in Canada and Bermuda. Over
500,000 church members along with adherents and visitors
met to pray and praise, to learn and serve, to reach out to friends and
strangers in good times and bad. Congregations were served by 1,700
ordered ministers and almost 300 lay ministers; 74,000 children learned
about Jesus in 2,000 Sunday schools. Through the Internet we
reached out to the 3 million Canadians who identify as United Church but
do not worship in a congregation.
In August 2009, commissioners from across the country gathered for the
40th General Council in Kelowna, B.C., under the theme “Down to
the Potter’s House,” to establish church priorities for the next
three years. Our new Moderator, Mardi Tindal, expressed her belief that
God is calling us to the abundance that is possible when we gather as
community and listen deeply to Spirit, to creation, and to one another.
Congregations served countless programs in their communities: we put
coats on kids and food on tables, advocated for social justice, and
provided shelter for the homeless. We supported programs ranging from
theological education to community development with over 160 partners
in more than 35 countries. The world economy was harsh, and emergencies
threatened lives and livelihoods, yet the Spirit was strong and our faith
secure.
United Church pastoral charges and members raised $400,000,000
for the work of the church in the congregation, in the community, and in
the world, and many left a lasting legacy to the church in their wills.
As you read these stories of shaping and being shaped in God’s mission,
we invite you to hear the hum of The Potter’s wheel turning…
“ God is calling the church to
engage in a covenant for
healing toward wholeness
of soul, community, and
creation.”
Moderator Mardi Tindal

C“Come, go down to the potter’s house, and there I will
let you hear my words.” Jeremiah 18:2
Contents
2 General Secretary’s Message
3 Moderator’s Message
4 Stories from across the Church
20 Join Us in Making a Difference
22 The National Accounts of The United Church of Canada
24 The United Church of Canada Foundation
28 The 2009–2012 Executive of the General Council
20 09

2
The United Church of Canada
Dear Friends,
I am delighted to share with you the 2009 Annual Report of
The United Church of Canada. In these pages, you will find
exciting stories of how we are living out our faith in diverse ways
and contexts.
I“I came that
they may have
life, and have it
abundantly.”
John 10:10
It has been a busy year. The 40th General Council met in Kelowna,
B.C., in August to make decisions and discern priorities and
directions for the church for the next three years. We continued to
live into our commitment to establish right relations with Aboriginal
peoples at the first National Aboriginal Spiritual Gathering in June,
and in our work with the residential schools Truth and Reconciliation
Commission. We also continued to seek social, economic, and
environmental justice in congregations and ministries across Canada,
and with global partners around the world.
Our story is one of faith in action. It is a story that is still being
shaped as new ways to live out God’s mission in the world are
revealed. I hope it will inspire you to join us in this faithful work.
Blessings and peace be with you,
Nora Sanders
General Secretary, General Council
Chers amis-es,
Il me fait plaisir de vous présenter le rapport annuel 2009 de l’Église Unie du Canada. Vous y trouverez
des présentations sur les façons dont nous vivons notre foi dans une diversité de contextes.
2009 a été une année occupée. Le 40 e Conseil général, du mois d’août à Kelowna, a pris des décisions et
établis des priorités et des orientations pour les trois prochaines années de la vie de l’Église. Nous avons
poursuivi notre engagement à établir des relations justes avec les peuples autochtones lors du premier
Rassemblement spirituel autochtone national au mois de juin, ainsi que notre travail avec la Commission
de témoignage et de réconciliation concernant les pensionnats amérindiens. Nous avons continué à
rechercher la justice sociale, économique et écologique dans nos paroisses et nos ministères au Canada
ainsi qu’avec nos partenaires internationaux.
Notre histoire, c’est celle d’une foi en action, une histoire qui continue à prendre forme. Je souhaite que
vous y puiserez l’inspiration pour vous joindre à nous dans cette œuvre de foi.
Que la bénédiction et la paix soient avec vous,
Nora Sanders
secrétaire générale du Conseil général

Annual Report 20 | 09 3
Amis-es en Christ,
Vous avez entre les mains des récits de foi. C’est grâce à vous que
ces choses ont pu se réaliser puisque vous avez fait vos choix dans
la foi et ainsi créé les conditions propices à l’abondance. Vous avez
choisi l’espérance plutôt que le désespoir, la communauté à la place
de la compétition, l’engagement dans une perspective d’ensemble
au lieu de l’étroitesse des intérêts propres. Et à cause de vos choix, la
vie abondante du Christ est connue.
J« Je suis venu
pour que les
humains aient la
vie et l’aient en
abondance.»
Jean 10,10
Chaque jour nous entendons parler de situations qui focalisent sur le
manque en générant peur et isolement, des inégalités économiques
croissantes et des problèmes écologiques. Tout au contraire, ces
récits communautaires de nos engagements de foi sont le reflet de
l’intégrité de l’abondance divine et de la guérison de l’esprit, de la
communauté et de la création. Ces récits seront pour vous, comme
ils l’ont été pour moi, une source d’inspiration. Vous y trouverez une
conscience renouvelée du privilège et du défi qui sont nôtres, en
reconnaissant qu’ensemble nous faisons vraiment une différence et
que la nécessité d’une générosité radicale demeure urgente.
Merci d’être un élément important de cette œuvre. Bien des gens
dépendent du témoignage énergique de notre Église pour
poursuivre leur épanouissement.
Soyez bénis-es en abondance,
Mardi Tindal, modératrice
Dear Friends in Christ,
You are holding an inspiring collection of stories of faith. You and others in the United Church have made
these stories possible by faithfully choosing to sustain the conditions for abundance. You have chosen
hope over despair, community over competition, a global commitment over narrow interests.
And because of your choices, the abundant life of Christ is known.
Daily we hear tales that arise from an assumption of scarcity, leading to fear and isolation, growing
income disparity, and ecological crisis. In contrast, our communal stories of faithful action, told here
in words, pictures, and financial statements, reflect God’s abundant wholeness and healing of soul,
community, and creation. I trust that you will feel as inspired by them as I do. You may also feel privileged
and challenged, knowing that together we make such a big difference, and that the need to contribute
sacrificially is as urgent as ever.
Thank you for being an important part of this work. So many are counting on the strong witness of our
church to continue to flourish.
Blessings in abundance,
Moderator Mardi Tindal

4
The United Church of Canada
Church Family Sharing
An economic crisis gripped Canada and the world in 2009. Past
Moderator David Giuliano shares two examples of United Church
people reaching out to others during these tough economic times:
When the congregation of Emmanuel United Church in Sault Ste.
Marie heard about the mill closure in nearby Marathon, Ontario, and
the economic hardship that resulted, they raised $700 to help out.
The funds were presented to the local curling club, an important
community centre for many of the laid-off mill workers. The club
was in danger of closing, but Emmanuel’s gift helped folks get
through a long, desperate winter of unemployment.
Kathleen Stephenson
A United Church member from southern Ontario also worried
about how St. John’s United in Marathon was faring, though he
had never been there. He knew they would have a financial shortfall
and wondered if he could help with regular donations to St. John’s
through PAR.
This is what it means to be a part of a big family: The United Church
of Canada. We are not alone.
Sharing Bread
One United Church response to the economic crisis in 2009 was Sharing
Bread: $500,000 earmarked for Canadian ministries, global partners,
and ministry staff training.
From Canadian ministries, 63 applications were approved from coast to
coast. Sharing Bread projects ranged from food banks and camp fees
to innovative ways to increase skills, obtain financial assistance, share
resources, distribute food, raise funds, and work with the economically
marginalized.
Learn more about global partners supported by Sharing Bread:
www.united-church.ca/partners/global_sharing

Annual Report 20 | 09 5
Worship and Celebration
In United Church congregations, we celebrate a diversity of
worship. Worship Matters: A Symposium on Preaching, Music, and
Worship Leadership is an annual national or regional event that
supports the gifts of our worship leaders.
Ottawa was the site for the national Worship Matters/Célébrons
Ensemble 2009. With generosity and enthusiasm, Dominion-
Chalmers United Church played host with true Christian hospitality.
Thank you, Dominion-Chalmers. A local arrangements team
made sure that creative energy infused the event, from theme
presentations to workshops, to ancient Middle Eastern drumming.
Participants enthused: “Here I was very close to God and God to
me.” “I went home re-energized.” “Worship Matters gives renewed
confidence and hope in The United Church of Canada.”
Worship included evensong, blues, and café styles. Then-Moderator
David Giuliano preached at the closing worship, and on witnessing
the swirling energy of the event, said that he felt he was “two days
behind a really great party.” We are grateful for the wonder of the
Spirit that is shaping our church.
Shaping Our Spaces
Our buildings proclaim our presence as
church in community. In 2009, churches
across the country faced issues of
renovating, amalgamating, and even
closing as they sought to envision how
their space supported their worship,
ministry, and outreach.
Okotoks United Church in Alberta had
sold their building in 2000 and purchased
the Ginger Tea House, turning it
into a centre for activities and outreach
programs with the planned addition of a
sanctuary. It takes years, though, to give
birth to a new building; the exterior was
completed in 2009 and the sanctuary is
on target for Christmas 2010.
St. John’s United, Halifax, moved to
a temporary home in the Maritime
Conservatory and will redevelop the
former site into a smaller, greener
church and a seniors’ independent
living complex. The initial planning was
begun in 2009; in 2010 St. John’s is
continuing the planning and beginning
construction.
Robert Schwab
Explore upcoming Worship Matters events:
www.united-church.ca/getinvolved/events/worshipmatters
Read more about renewal and development:
www.united-church.ca/renewal/buildings

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The United Church of Canada
“I really like how the United Church is making the General Council accessible to
members… Kudos to all those involved.” from WonderCafe
Networking in a Digital Age
In 2009 the church blogged and tweeted with the best. No, that’s
not a commentary on our singing or sermons! It’s a reflection of
how our people stay connected.
The 40th General Council in Kelowna in August 2009 is a great
example of how we keep in touch and in tune with technology.
Almost 10,000 people visited the special GC40 website and thanks
to streaming, church members watched the General Council in
action with daily video clips. Members subscribed to e-mail updates
and participants shared videos on the United Church’s YouTube
channel and photos on Flickr.
Some followed or posted on the official GC40 blog, and still others
started discussion threads on WonderCafe. Tweeters kept up with
General Council on the GC40 Twitter feed, and United Church youth
chatted on their Youth Forum Facebook group.
United Church individuals and congregations, as well as the national
office, maintain their Internet presence all year long on websites,
blogs, YouTube, and Facebook.
See the United Church in action:
www.united-church.ca/tvmm/youtube
The Printed Word
United Church Publishing House publishes books each year that reflect our
faith and challenge and inspire readers. UCPH additions for 2009 include:
• Jesus 24/7 Youth: A Short Course in Christian Faith for the Questing Youth
• Seeking Sabbath: A Personal Journey
• Advent Awakenings: Daily Devotions for the Season of Advent, Year C
• There’s No ATM in the Wilderness: Daily Reflections for Lent
Keep up with new and upcoming books: www.united-church.ca/sales/ucph

Annual Report 20 | 09 7
Julie Kinkaid
Reaching Out across Canada
Poor health, no job, and no place to live—it’s hard to imagine
the fear and despair of being in that situation. Yet daily, hundreds of
Canadians wake up wondering how to survive. Thanks to the donations
and volunteer labour of United Church people, there are safe and
supportive places to go. Here are just three stories:
“We are the clay, and
you are our potter; we
are all the work of your
hand.” Isaiah 64:8
It’s not easy to job hunt when you have no shower, your haircut is eight months old, and your clothes
need mending. Solutions like a laundry, clothing repair, haircuts, and shower facilities are some of the
practical services of Ottawa’s drop-in Centre 507, located in Centretown United Church. The centre also
operates a job bank and offers training, resumé writing, health services, and referrals.
Daily life at First United in Vancouver is a beehive of activity. Some come for mail collection or pastoral
care; others need a bite to eat before curling up with a blanket on the pews for a safe sleep. It takes time
and money to provide meals and programs. At First United much of it comes from United Church people
who offer generous contributions as well as hands-on service.
Thanks to United Church donations and assistance, Bridges To Hope in St. John’s, Newfoundland, is
reducing the impact of poverty on families. Clients receive food and clothing; toys and books; Christmas
hampers and back-to-school kits; and learn basic food preparation, budgeting, and shopping skills.
In 2009, thanks to United Church people, Canadian programs like these helped reshape lives and create
wholeness of soul, community, and creation.
Read about our Canadian outreach partners in the August M&S special edition of Mandate:
www.united-church.ca/sales/magazines/mandate

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The United Church of Canada
Churches Go Green
Across the country, United Church members, congregations,
and Conferences are doing their part to care for the environment.
General Council was no exception: efforts at the General Council
meeting in August included group travel whenever possible and a
donation to the church’s carbon offset project; local, seasonal food
and some meatless meals; reusable water bottles and no disposable
dishes or cutlery; delivery of information online or by overhead
projection; and use of recycled paper and double-sided printing
wherever possible.
“Every time I choose to act differently, especially in concert with others,
I have a deeper sense of living in the abundant life of Christ.”
Moderator Mardi Tindal
Offsetting Our
Carbon Footprint
In 2009 an allocation of $115,000
was made to the Vision Fund—
which supports innovative, creative,
and new congregational youth and
young adult ministry—to offset costs
of air travel undertaken by General
Council staff and for major meetings.
Grants from this fund have a green
focus in 2010 and are available
to church youth and young adult
groups for projects that offset carbon
production, such as installing solar
panels, building efficiency projects,
alternative travel ideas, eco-gardens,
and waste alternatives.
Larissa Kanhai, a member of the Moderator’s Advisory Committee,
mobilized members of her community to reduce their energy
consumption enough to offset the travel carbon impact for 60
commissioners!
St. Paul’s United Church in Kindersley, Saskatchewan, responded
to the Moderator’s appeal for help in offsetting her travel carbon
footprint. Members decided to make changes to their church
building that will reduce their gas consumption and achieve a
reduction of 33.9 tonnes of carbon emissions per year!
With hope for our children and respect for creation, we in the
United Church integrate our beliefs with our work.
In addition, a new Carbon Offset
Project is available to other church
groups for projects that reduce
carbon footprints.

Annual Report 20 | 09 9
Pearce Williams Christian Centre
Pearce Williams Christian Centre
Lake Scugog Camp
Camping: A Vital Ministry
In the spring of 2009, London Conference camps and the
Conference office began a camping awareness campaign, creating
“I Am Camp” postcards for every United Church camp across
Canada. The idea was for campers, staff, and parents to mail
completed postcards to Nora Sanders, General Secretary of the
General Council. Cards streamed in to both Church House and the
General Council meeting in August. By the end of 2009, the General
Secretary had received almost 3,800 postcards!
The postcard campaign coincided with General Council proposals
requesting that camping ministries be recognized as a place for faith
formation and as a priority for the church.
The results: General Council decided to continue support of the
national Camping Task Group; continue Connections, the church’s
national camping conference; and continue providing faith
development resources and financial support for camps.
Throughout 2010, innovative initiatives to connect camps and
congregations in partnership for youth ministry are being promoted
by a continuing awareness campaign.
“Camp changed my life.”
“Camp is why I joined the
United Church.”
“My mother was a
camper, I was a camper,
now my children are
campers.”
Read all about it: www.united-church.ca/exploring/camping

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The United Church of Canada
Bill and Karen Butt
Girls create banners for
AIDS awareness and
use dolls in a scene
from one of their AIDS
plays in Molumbo,
Mozambique.
“We never in our lives imagined that daughters from our
small, isolated village could stay in school and graduate
as teachers.” parents of PEDRA girls
United Church around
the World
In 2009, the United Church funded over 160 partners in more than
35 countries working to make a better world through education,
human rights, emergency response, care for creation, strengthening
faith communities, and building peace.
Ripple Effect
Educating girls can improve an entire community! That’s the belief
of PEDRA, a school program in Mozambique operated by United
Church partner Christian Council of Mozambique. PEDRA’s bursaries
allow girls to stay in school past the normal Grade 5 level. The
curriculum includes theatre to educate peers and communities about
real-life topics: HIV/AIDS, family violence, first aid, or staying in
school. It’s well established in international development work that
the ripple effect of educating girls is the best investment of all. They
help their families financially and become role models for others.
The PEDRA girls show that this is true.

Annual Report 20 | 09 11
Learning Leads to a Better Life
Costurart is a women’s co-operative in Salvador, Brazil, supported
by Coordenadoria Ecumênica de Serviço, a United Church partner.
Since 2002, Costurart has been a place where survivors of domestic
violence have gathered to share and learn new skills, support
one another, and build a highly successful clothing design and
production company.
Kathleen Stephenson
Caring for Community
In 2009 the United Church continued supporting the garden
project of the Evangelical Seminary of Theology in Matanzas, Cuba.
The seminary received a grant for its successful vegetable garden
maintained by the 40 full-time ministry students living on campus.
This contribution helped them supplement the students’ meal
program, benefit staff, and provide food for an orphanage and
hospital in Matanzas.
Walking in Solidarity
Jim Hodgson
In September 2009, the United Church expressed outrage at the
murder of the Rev. Father Cecilio Lucero in San Jose, Samar, in the
Philippines. He was one of 1,000 killed defending the poor and
marginalized in that country. The United Church joined its Filipino
partners in calling on President Gloria Arroyo to immediately
investigate and urged the Government of Canada to condemn the
brutal killing.
The United Church funds partners such as the National Council of
Churches in the Philippines and Cordillera Peoples Alliance to help
people organize and protest violations against communities and the
environment. Recently a mining application was successfully opposed,
with the company removing its application to mine that area.
We walk in solidarity with partners who resist corporate greed and
government corruption in order to sustain their land and culture.
Nicole Smith
United Church staff visitor Sarah
Shepherd celebrates International
Human Rights Day, participating in
a public march led by the Cordillera
Peoples Alliance, Philippines.
Discover more about global partners: www.united-church.ca/partners/global

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The United Church of Canada
Committed to the Long
Road of Truth Telling
“Mould your church, holy God, to reflect the contours
of your kingdom.” Brian McIntosh (Gathering, LEP 1998)
In October 2009, the Truth and Reconciliation
Commission held a Witnessing
the Future ceremony at Rideau Hall,
Ottawa, with the Governor General as
Honorary Witness. The ceremony focused
on listening to and learning from the
legacy of Indian Residential Schools.
Moderator Mardi Tindal attended the
commission hearings with residential
school survivors, United Church representatives,
and other Aboriginal and
church leaders.
How Do We Become an
Intercultural Church?
What it means to become an intercultural church was the
question explored by the RiverRunning Conference at the University
of Winnipeg in November. Congregations and leaders came to
RiverRunning to participate in dynamic worship, practical workshops
in a multilingual space, theological reflection on intercultural issues,
and celebration and analysis.
Diverse young people came together for the Youth Consultation
held in November 2009 in Canterbury Hills, Ontario. Here racial
minority, Aboriginal, and Metis youth of the United Church shared
their racial and cultural experiences in the church.
Explore intercultural ministries: www.united-church.ca/intercultural
Fred Cattroll
Vernon Immersion School Singers at
General Council’s opening worship.
Marie Wilson, a member
of the Truth and
Reconciliation Commission
and Yellowknife United
Church, introduces
Moderator Mardi Tindal to
Michaëlle Jean, Governor
General of Canada.
Read about Aboriginal peoples and the church:
www.united-church.ca/aboriginal

Annual Report 20 | 09 13
Moderator Mardi Tindal at a KAIROS climate
change rally at the Ontario legislature, Toronto.
Serving with Others
KAIROS
Through KAIROS: Canadian
Ecumenical Justice Initiatives,
the United Church works with
many churches and churchbased
organizations in faithful
action for justice and peace. In
2009, the church took part in
initiatives including Earth Hour
celebrations in March and a
Week of Action connecting
climate justice and poverty
in October. We appealed to
members to sign the Kyotoplus
petition, urging the Canadian
government to make a strong
international commitment to
climate action in Copenhagen
and to invest in a green
economy at home.
The 2009 United Church grant
to KAIROS was $490,000.
In December the church
asked members to call on
the government to reinstate
cancelled federal funding to
KAIROS.
World Council
of Churches
The World Council of Churches,
continuing a focus on climate
change, offered congregational
resources in 2009 on the Kyoto
Protocol and a new climate
framework.
The United Church and
ecumenical partners
participated in a WCC visit to
Honduras, organized after a
military coup d’état, and called
for the return of President
Manuel Zelaya.
The World Council’s Decade to
Overcome Violence continues
through 2010; we participate
by working for right relationship
between Aboriginal and non-
Aboriginal peoples and through
our membership in Project
Ploughshares, a key Canadian
partner in peace campaigns.
The 2009 United Church
grant to the World Council of
Churches was $519,000.
The Canadian
Council of
Churches
The Canadian Council of
Churches is the largest
ecumenical body in Canada,
representing 21 Christian
churches, including ours.
In 2009, delegations from the
CCC met in Ottawa with senior
leaders of all political parties
to build relationships, raise
concerns, and urge Canada
to increase its contribution to
achieving the UN Millennium
Development Goals. The United
Church supported this work
with a 2009 grant of $85,000.
Marion Currant
Learn more about our interfaith and ecumenical relationships:
www.united-church.ca/partners/relations

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The United Church of Canada
Paul Jeffrey/ACT Alliance
Rainer Lang
Special Appeals
The United Church sometimes issues a special fundraising appeal to its members. One example was the
United for Peace Campaign, an education, advocacy, and fundraising effort that ran from November 2007
to December 2009 to benefit peace efforts around the world. In 2009 funds went to the Angolan Council of
Christian Churches and the Jerusalem Link, a Palestinian and Israeli women’s joint venture for peace.
Responding to Emergencies
“Be prepared” is not just a
good motto for the Scouts or a
song from The Lion King. Today
emergency preparedness is a
common watchword. Although
the United Church is not
primarily an emergency relief
agency, we have taken steps
to ensure that we can respond
immediately when disaster
strikes.
Our Emergency Response
Fund helps alleviate the
effects of crises and supports
long-term rehabilitation and
reconstruction. Each year the
Emergency Response Fund is
replenished from the Mission
and Service Fund ($130,000
in 2009).
In addition, the Emergency
Response Fund receives
15 percent from supragifts—
those donations earmarked
for specific disaster appeals.
Since all administrative costs
are covered by the Mission and
Service Fund, every dollar given
to a disaster appeal is available
for relief and reconstruction.
Applying 15 percent of
such gifts to the Emergency
Response Fund prepares the
church to act immediately, and
Keep up to date on United Church emergency response: www.united-church.ca/communications/news/response

Annual Report 20 | 09 15
Ghulam Rasool/CWS-ACT International
Canadian Foodgrains Bank
Canadian Foodgrains Bank is able to organize substantial food aid
interventions in emergency situations in the global South. As a member,
the United Church is able to use church equity each year for specific
emergency responses.
strengthens the United Church’s
capacity to respond to other
disasters that affect partners but
do not receive media attention.
NCCP
October 18, 2009
The following is from a letter sent after the
2009 typhoon from Father Rex Reyes, General
Secretary of United Church partner NCCP, the
National Council of Churches in the Philippines:
In 2009, The United Church of
Canada sent funds for flood relief
in Mozambique, for emergency
aid after Typhoon Frank in the
Philippines, to benefit displaced
persons in Sri Lanka, and for
assistance to victims of conflict in
Peru and Israel/Palestine.
Dear Friends,
We thank you all for the outpouring prayers and support. We can
all feel these and thereby have the courage to declare to people not
to lose hope. We have the audacity to declare hope because of your
journeying with us.
Padi Rex Rb Reyes, Jr.

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The United Church of Canada
Sylvie Gallant
“It is not we who shape God;
it is God who shapes us.”
attributed to Irenaeus, circa 200 CE
A Legacy of Faithful
Commitment
Over the years, the United Church Women have faithfully
served the church in a multitude of ways, committing themselves to
love God and foster Christian faithfulness, spirituality, commitment,
and devotion. Here is a sampling of the work of various UCW groups
in 2009:
Morley Davidson
In West District, Newfoundland and Labrador, Bethany UCW in
Summerside knit blankets for Daffodil Place, a new hostel for cancer
patients and their families.
Wadena UCW in Saskatchewan held its 25th annual motherdaughter
banquet.
United Church Women in Montreal and Ottawa Conference studied
the themes “living in empire” and “caring for creation,” learned
about Centre 507 in Ottawa, collected glasses for the Vision Care
Program, and supported Grannies for Africa and Ryan’s Well.
In Bay of Quinte, the UCW worked on an Extra Measures Project,
raising money to support training events for UMMON, a women’s
group of the Moravian Church in Nicaragua.
In Alberta and Northwest Conference, the UCW was involved with
the Child Well Being Initiative.
Across the church, UCW locals held meetings and rallies to boost
support and to discern their purpose and future.
In 2009, the UCW gave $1,896,000 to the Mission and Service Fund
and raised over $13,000,000 for local purposes.
As One That Serves
AOTS is a men’s service club of the
United Church made up of 50 clubs and
national and regional offices. It aims to
renew a spirit of Christian service in
homes, communities, and the country.
Local, national, and international
initiatives were addressed in 2009:
a youth-to-camp program, hospital
fund, national scholarship program,
and support for rebuilding a school in
Angola.
In 2010 AOTS will focus on work with
the men’s ministry network and with
youth in the church.
Learn more about men’s and women’s ministries:
www.united-church.ca/allages/adults

Annual Report 20 | 09 17
Children Are at the Heart of the Church
United Church children are full and welcome participants at the heart of each congregation,
bringing ideas and unique talents that can inspire the entire church. Children in General Council
participated in learning, worship, and decision-making. Their experiences will last a lifetime.
From Children in Council
Je suis arrivé à Kelowna le samedi après-midi, au commencement
du 40 e CG. J’étais un peu nerveux, mais les bénévoles ont été très
gentils. Je faisais partie du CINC (Les Enfants au Conseil général)...
J’étais content de me faire de nouveaux amis et de parler avec les
personnes candidates au poste de modérateur.
J’ai appris que Dieu est comme un Potier qui nous a créé et qui
continue à créer. C’était amusant de servir la communion. Je me suis
senti en confiance parce que je suis très impliqué dans mon église à
Wetaskiwin. —Daniel Lumax, Wetaskiwin, Alberta
The 40th General Council was a great experience for me! Even
though this was my first time going, I felt as if I belonged there, it’s
my home.
On the first day, I had no idea what was going on, I felt embarrassed
about my colour, and I felt lonely. But, I made many new and great
friends who are supportive, fun loving, creative and compassionate.
They encouraged me to be myself, so I did. I never want to forget
these wonderful people I met. —Anna Kihara, Surrey, B.C.
Youth Inspire at Council
The Youth Forum at General Council
inspired the Council to leave a legacy of
environmental care from that meeting,
raising almost $16,000 to support the
installation of solar panels at the United
Church’s Naramata Centre in British
Columbia.

18
The United Church of Canada
Thankful Living,
Joyful Giving
“The Moores’ gift
to the work of the
United Church is a
wonderful affirmation
of all who have been
a part of their spiritual
journey. Paul and
Laura pass their faith
and generosity on to
many others who will
be touched by their
legacy.”
Rev. Heather McLean,
Financial Development Officer
Paul and Laura Moore were lifelong members of Norwich
United Church in southwestern Ontario near Woodstock and ran a
successful seed company in the area. Mr. Moore died in 2003 and
Mrs. Moore in 2007. In their lifetimes they were generous to their
congregation, to the United Church, and to the Mission and Service
Fund. They gave of their time and their money. When asked about
his generosity to overseas missions, Paul Moore said, “If I can’t go,
then my money should.”
The Moores wanted to make a difference, so they listed 51
charitable or religious organizations in their wills. Among those
remembered was the United Church. The Moores looked beyond
themselves and wanted our church to do the same. On their deaths
they made bequests to their local congregation, the national United
Church through the Mission and Service Fund, and for global work
through World Development and Relief. When the estate was settled
in 2009, The United Church of Canada had received a total of
$3.1 million.
In 2009, the church received $1.6 million in such gifts from
individuals. Local congregations of the United Church received
667 estate bequests valued at $16.8 million.
Learn more about legacy giving:
www.united-church.ca/
getinvolved/donate/howto/
planned
Will Power
Never underestimate the power of your will. It ensures that your
family is cared for and your wishes are fulfilled. Each year, hundreds
remember The United Church of Canada in their estate plans—local
congregations, the wider United Church through the Mission and
Service Fund, The United Church of Canada Foundation, The United
Church Observer, or a community-based program. Please remember
the church in your estate plans. You can order the United Church’s Will
Workbook or speak to a regional Financial Development Officer at
1-800-268-3781 (or locally 416-231-7680) ext. 2024.

Annual Report 20 | 09 19
The United Church
Observer
Marking its 180th anniversary in 2009, The United Church
Observer is the oldest continuously published magazine and the
most decorated denominational magazine in North America today.
“The Observer is everything a denominational magazine should
be,” wrote a judge in awarding The Observer top honours in the
Canadian Church Press 2009 competition.
The Observer is unique among North American church magazines.
Though its editorial outlook reflects the theological values of The
United Church of Canada, and most subscribers sit in United Church
pews, the magazine operates independently. It sets its own editorial
policies and programs, hires staff, and operates from its own
premises. About 7 percent of its funding comes from the Mission
and Service Fund; the rest is self-generated through subscriptions,
advertising, government grants, and The Friends of The Observer
Fund.
The magazine’s editorial excellence is tied directly to its
independence. It broadens the scope of the United Church’s ministry
by identifying and exploring issues of faith, ethics, justice, and living
beyond the church’s traditional borders. Innovative articles such as a
cover story on radical atheism are catching the eye of commentators
outside the United Church. The Observer’s reporting on the United
Church provides the perspective readers need to live more faithfully
in an increasingly secular culture.
Visit The Observer’s website: www.ucobserver.org
Aujourd’hui Credo
Since 1954, Aujourd’hui Credo has been the United Church’s Frenchlanguage
periodical. The only French-language magazine from the Reformed
tradition in North America, Aujourd’hui Credo is the face of the United
Church. It covers events and themes with a Christian perspective, and keeps
francophone congregations up to speed on church developments.
Read Aujourd’hui Credo:
www.united-church.ca/fr/sales/magazines/credo

20
The United Church of Canada
Join Us in Making
a Difference
You can make many different kinds of gifts to support the
mission and ministry of The United Church of Canada.
Give Locally
Most gifts to the church benefit the work
of local congregations: worship, programs,
maintenance, and community outreach. United
Church people gave about $400,000,000 to
their congregations in 2009.
The United Church of Canada
Foundation
The United Church of Canada Foundation is a
way of giving to the future needs of our United
Church community. Several focus funds,
including Peace & Justice, Faith & Mission,
and Sustaining funds, support worldwide
ministry. In 2009, donors gave $118,000
for all purposes to the Foundation. The
Congregational Investment program allows
congregations and ministries to participate in
a pooled investment plan. See pages 24–27
for more about the Foundation’s work.
Support the Mission and Service Fund
The Mission and Service Fund finances the ministry and mission that we do together as
The United Church of Canada: our worship life, work for justice and peace, and advocacy
for environmental reforms are just three examples. Through the M&S Fund we respond
to needs in Canada and around the world. The Mission and Service Fund, totalling
$29,900,000 in 2009, is the largest contributor to the annual budget of The United Church
of Canada.
MISSION AND
SERVICE FUND
The Gift of Sharing
In Memoriam: Create a lasting remembrance in honour of a departed loved one.
In Celebration: Honour a loved one on their special occasion with a gift that makes
a difference.
Support World Development and Relief
World Development and Relief (WDR) is the only
designation within the Mission and Service Fund.
Gifts to WDR support our global budget for work in
development and relief. The Mission and Service
Fund augments these gifts to complete our planned
work. In 2009 gifts to WDR totalled $521,000.
Contribute to the Healing Fund
The Healing Fund was originally established as a
fundraising and educational campaign to address
the impacts of residential schools on Aboriginal
people. It now continues as one facet of the
United Church’s ongoing reconciliation work with
Aboriginal people.
Learn how to give: www.united-church.ca/getinvolved/donate

Annual Report 20 | 09 21
Give for Emergency Response
In the event of a major disaster, the church can issue an emergency response appeal for extra donations.
All administrative costs for such gifts are covered by the Mission and Service Fund. A small portion (15%)
of emergency donations is retained to replenish the Emergency Response Fund (see pages 14–15).
When You Are Ready
to Make a Gift
• Give to your local United Church congregation. Many
congregations have their own websites that outline
opportunities for support and ways to give.
• Pre-Authorized Remittance (PAR) allows you to support your
church through an automatic monthly withdrawal from your
bank account. Speak to the PAR treasurer in your congregation.
• Give directly to The United Church of Canada:
Online at www.united-church.ca/getinvolved/donate
By telephone at
1-800-268-3781 ext. 2026 or
locally 416-231-7680 ext. 2026
Legacy Giving
Gifts for future ministries
of the church can be made
through legacies. You may
designate your estate gift
to any aspect of The United
Church of Canada—for
example, the Mission and
Service Fund, your local
congregation, a local mission
unit, a United Church camp,
a theological college, The
United Church of Canada
Archives, or The United
Church of Canada Foundation.
Christmas Gift: Give someone a gift that keeps on giving.
M&S labels: Make a donation and send friends a page of return address labels.
Or purchase them for your own use on correspondence, books, or belongings.
By mail to: Direct Giving Program
The United Church of Canada
3250 Bloor St. West, Suite 300
Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4
• Give a gift in your will. Each year The United Church of Canada receives many gifts from the estates of
faithful donors. Call 1-800-268-3781 (or locally 416-231-7680) ext. 2024 to speak to a regional Financial
Development Officer.
The United Church of Canada is profoundly grateful to all those who give to support the mission and ministry
of Christ’s church.
Charitable number: 10810 2435 RR0003

22
The United Church of Canada
The National Accounts of
The United Church of Canada
Statement of Financial Position as at December 31, 2009
(amounts in thousands)
General Trust and Property and
Operating Endowment Annuity Building 2009 2008
Funds Funds Funds Funds Total Total
Assets
Current
Cash $ 8,960 $ – $ – $ – $ 8,960 $ 7,949
Accounts receivable 5,286 – 93 98 5,477 12,951
Inventory 590 – – – 590 674
Other 375 – – – 375 427
15,211 – 93 98 15,402 22,001
Investments 53,614 25,679 17,406 20,495 117,194 107,469
Capital loans – – – 6,373 6,373 8,751
Capital assets – – – 2,796 2,796 2,860
$ 68,825 $ 25,679 $ 17,499 $ 29,762 $ 141,765 $ 141,081
Liabilities and
fund balances
Current
Accounts payable
and accrued
liabilities $ 3,038 – $ 168 $ 70 $ 3,276 $ 5,387
Payable to external
beneficiaries – – 6,409 – 6,409 6,871
Deferred lease inducement 2,688 – – – 2,688 2,901
Fund balances 63,099 25,679 10,922 29,692 129,392 125,922
$ 68,825 $ 25,679 $ 17,499 $ 29,762 $ 141,765 $ 141,081
Audited statements are available on request.

Annual Report 20 | 09 23
The National Accounts of
The United Church of Canada
Statement of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2009
(amounts in thousands)
General Trust and Property and
Operating Endowment Annuity Building 2009 2008
Funds Funds Funds Funds Total Total
Revenues
Contributions to the Mission
and Service Fund
Congregations $ 27,028 $ – $ – $ – $ 27,028 $ 27,691
United Church Women 1,896 – – – 1,896 2,011
Investment income 3,648 1,969 1,061 1,538 8,216 3,999
Retail sales 2,259 19 – – 2,278 2,563
Group insurance premiums 18,285 – – – 18,285 19,062
Annuities – – 512 – 512 585
Legacies 1,303 293 – 7 1,603 5,957
Recovery of
administrative costs 2,908 – – – 2,908 2,651
Donations 770 228 – – 998 1,781
Other revenue 3,458 – – 23 3,481 7,216
Total revenues 61,555 2,509 1,573 1,568 67,205 73,516
Expenses
Grants 20,237 1,451 – 423 22,111 23,011
Staff costs 15,646 73 – – 15,719 14,668
Group insurance payments 16,226 – – – 16,226 17,754
Resources 3,138 10 – – 3,148 3,711
Travel and meeting 3,654 41 – – 3,695 2,675
Office 3,170 5 – 614 3,789 3,606
Annuities – – 1,895 – 1,895 2,333
Professional fees 3,226 2 – 2 3,230 3,181
Property and
insurance 708 – – 13 721 1,019
Investment expenses 371 26 13 – 410 396
Other – – – 2,700 2,700 –
Total expenses 66,376 1,608 1,908 3,752 73,644 72,354
Surplus (deficit) before unrealized losses (4,821) 901 (335) (2,184) (6,439) 1,162
Unrealized losses as a result of
an other than temporary
impairment – – – – – (12,200)
Surplus (deficit) $ (4,821) $ 901 $ (335) $ (2,184) $ (6,439) $ (11,038)

24
The United Church of Canada
The United Church of Canada Foundation
Fondation de l’Église Unie du Canada
“Endowed by the Generous,
Enduring for Generations,
Enabling God’s Mission”
The Board of Directors of The United Church of Canada
Foundation is pleased to present this report of its activity in 2009 as
part of The United Church of Canada’s Annual Report. The purpose
of the Foundation is captured by the mission statement above. We
seek to enable God’s mission now and into the future in a number
of ways:
• through personal endowment funds where donors set up an
endowment to support ministries, mission activities, and other
charitable acts that are important to them (a minimum of
$50,000 must be established over time for such endowments)
• through the Mission Focus Funds established by the Foundation
to enable a variety of ministry activities through Seeds
of Hope grants
• through the Congregational Investment Program, which allows
congregations to have reserve funds managed through the
Foundation with Fiera Capital, the Foundation’s Fund Manager
• through individual gift funds that allow people to give a
special gift (cash, securities, or other immediate gifts) to a
congregation, outreach ministry, or mission partner
Explore how you can participate in the Foundation’s
programs: www.unitedchurchfoundation.ca
Staff at the Foundation work within the
Financial Stewardship Unit of The United
Church of Canada. The Acting President
since July 1, 2009, is Bill Steadman,
also the Executive Minister of Financial
Stewardship. He took over that role from
Gary Magarrell. In 2009 Sarah Charters
was the Donor Relations Manager until
the end of July. Since then Jason Novelli
and later Jamie Wilder have filled the role
during Sarah’s maternity leave.
Regional contact with donors primarily
occurs through the Financial Development
Officers of the church, under the leadership
of Doug Flanders, Director of Major
and Planned Gifts (1-800-268-3781 ext.
2027, or dflander@united-church.ca).
They are, by Conference region:
Jane Harding, British Columbia
(jharding@united-church.ca)
Kathryn Hofley, Alberta & Northwest,
Saskatchewan, Manitoba &
Northwestern Ontario
(khofley@united-church.ca)
Heather McLean (to June 30, 2009),
London, Hamilton
Lisa Di Veto (since August 2009), London,
Hamilton (ldiveto@united-church.ca)
Deb Hopper, Toronto
(dhopper@united-church.ca)
Keith Stam, Bay of Quinte, Manitou
(kstam@united-church.ca)
Paul Sales, Montreal & Ottawa
(psales@united-church.ca)
Pam Harrison, Maritime, Newfoundland
& Labrador (pharriso@united-church.ca)

Annual Report 20 | 09 25
Montreal City Mission
Every Kid Choir after the
Dead Man’s Bones show.
Summary of Gift
Fund Activity
Number of donors: 90
Every Kid Choir
Nobody could have predicted the great partnership that would
blossom when Montreal City Mission (MCM) moved into St. James
United Church in 2005. In an effort to bring both ministries closer
together, they started the Every Kid Choir, blending MCM’s expertise
in reaching out to vulnerable refugee and immigrant populations
with St. James United Church’s exceptional music program.
Since that time, children from different cultures, faiths, and social
backgrounds have come together to sing songs that speak of hope
and love. Before they knew it, the Every Kid Choir was performing at
important social justice events throughout Montreal; it has come to
embody hope for the biblical vision of peace and justice.
In 2010 Montreal City Mission is celebrating 100 years of “Justice
in the city—Un Montréal pour tous.” The United Church of Canada
Foundation was pleased to make Every Kid Choir a 2009 Seeds of
Hope grant recipient.
Number of beneficiaries: 142
Total received: $823,777
Total disbursed: $744,934
Summary of Investment
Program Activity
Number of clients: 76
Total number of accounts: 83
Dollars under investment: $17,061,004
Donors to the Foundation
Number of donors
to the Foundation
in all programs: 146

26
The United Church of Canada
Seeds of Hope
As of July 1, 2009, the Foundation entered into a new relationship with The United Church of Canada. Part of that
agreement was the establishment of a Joint Grants Committee to oversee the allocation of funds from the Foundation
endowment funds and the United Church’s trusts and endowment funds. The grants made in 2009 are below. As both
parties move into this agreement, more grants will be available year by year.
2009 Seeds of Hope Grant Recipients
Grant Recipient Project Name Project Description Grant
Amount
Brunswick Street
Mission, Halifax,
Nova Scotia
Saint Columba
House, Point Saint
Charles, Quebec
Out of the Cold
Emergency Winter
Shelter
Sexual &
Reproductive
Health Awareness
Day Conference
A “shelter of last resort” providing
15 beds and a sustained response
to homelessness, poverty, and
marginalization, November–April.
Community-wide education with a
special focus on youth and parents,
inviting 14- to 19-year-olds to
submit safer sex messages as
posters, videos, song, or art.
Source of Funding
$9,000 $1,000 – Peace &
Justice Fund
$8,000 – Living Spirit
Fund
$2,400 $2,400 – Peace &
Justice Fund
Wesley Urban
Ministries, Hamilton,
Ontario
Wesley Youth
Housing Program
Aiming to move street-involved or
homeless youth to safe, affordable
housing and to train them with
skills for independence and selfsufficiency.
$7,500 $5,000 – Davey
Family Fund
$2,500 – John
Abraham Fund
Montreal City
Mission, Montreal,
Quebec
Every Kid Choir
Drawing together children from
diverse backgrounds to sing
songs of peace and praise, the
choir hopes to broaden children’s
acceptance of difference and be
a visible symbol of intercultural
peace.
$5,000 $4,600 – Brian &
Belva Piercy Fund
$400 – Peace &
Justice Fund
Carlington
Community
Chaplaincy, Ottawa,
Ontario
Mentoring Moves
Mountains
Training volunteers who provide
one-on-one mentoring for adults
living in a multicultural, multi-faith
social housing community who
request to participate.
$8,800 $8,800 – Living Spirit
Fund
Sparrow Lake
United Church
Camp, Alliston,
Ontario
Leaders-in-Training
Building
Helping build a dormitory and
meeting space for 24 Leaders-in-
Training and two staff in time for
the camp’s 100-year anniversary.
$10,000 $9,900 – Living Spirit
Fund
$100 – Davey Family
Fund

Annual Report 20 | 09 27
Foundation Financial Summary
BALANCE SHEET 2009 2008
Assets
Investments $ 2,015,040 $ 1,787,692
Cash 372,238 355,841
Accounts &
contributions receivable 48,274 55,333
Prepaid expenses 2,225 1,959
Capital assets – 384
Total assets $ 2,437,777 $ 2,201,209
Liabilities
Accounts payable &
accrued charges $ 307,637 $ 366,393
Fund balances
Operating fund 111,461 45,862
Gift funds 3,639 878
Endowment funds 2,015,040 1,787,692
Capital fund – 384
Total, liabilities & fund balances $ 2,437,777 $ 2,201,209
ENDOWMENT REVENUES
Donations to endowment funds $ 122,368 $ 420,120
Investment income 42,274 76,347
The United Church of
Canada Foundation
Board of Directors
Marion Best
Fred Braman, Chair
Bruce Cook
Kay de la Ronde, Secretary Treasurer
John Durfey
Doug Einarson
Peter Harder
Jon Jessiman
Amber Ing
Tim O’Neill
Barbara Rafuse
Rob Richards
Nora Sanders
Total endowment revenues $ 164,642 $ 496,467
GIFT FUND REVENUES
Gift Fund donations $ 827,568 $ 1,630,123
GRANTING ACTIVITIES
Seeds of Hope grants $ 48,100 $ 74,550
Gift Fund grants 824,310 1,623,477
Annual total $ 872,410 $ 1,698,027
Total grants since inception $ 5,173,135 $ 4,300,725
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Operating donations $ – $ 3,400
Sustaining grant from
The United Church of Canada 145,000 290,000
Investment income & fees 162,817 164,432
Total operating revenues $ 307,817 $ 457,832
Salaries & benefits $ 106,502 $ 157,405
Fund development &
investment programs 82,717 133,071
Administrative expenses 94,725 84,908
Total operating expenses $ 283,944 $ 375,384
The United Church of
Canada Foundation/
Fondation de l’Église
Unie du Canada
www.unitedchurchfoundation.ca
fdn@united-church.ca
416-231-7680 ext. 3410
1-866-340-8223
3250 Bloor St. West, Suite 300
Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4
Charitable number
863109021 RR0001
Audited statements are available on request.

28
The United Church of Canada
The 2009–2012 Executive
of the General Council
As of December 31, 2009
Mardi Tindal
Nora Sanders
David Giuliano
Claude Hender
Florence Sanna
Shirley Cleave
David Hewitt
Brian Cornelius
Charlotte Griffith
Bruce Hutchinson
John H. Young
Barbara White
Lynella Reid-James
Lewis Coffman
Thom Davies
Sharon Willis-Whitwell
Charles McMillan
Cynthia Désilets
Bill Rogers
Betty Kelly
barb janes
Linsell Hurd
Bev Kostichuk
Louise Rogers
Armand Houle
Heather Burton
Alvin Dixon
Allan C. Sinclair
Donna Kennedy
Amber Ing
Emmanuel Ofori
Nicole Beaudry
Darla Sloan
Ted Kostecki
Sheryl Johnson
Colin Phillips
Mary Royal
Donald Hunter
Paul Stott
Tracy Murton
Christine Williams
Carmen Lansdowne
Ray Jones
Jim White
John Thompson
To be determined
To be determined
To be determined
Arlyce Schiebout
Stéphane Vermette
Moderator
General Secretary
Immediate Past Moderator
Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador
Maritime
Maritime
Montreal and Ottawa
Montreal and Ottawa
Bay of Quinte
Bay of Quinte
Toronto
Toronto
Hamilton
Hamilton
London
London
Manitou
Manitou
Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario
Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan
Alberta and Northwest
Alberta and Northwest
British Columbia
British Columbia
All Native Circle
All Native Circle
Ethnic Ministries Constituent
Ethnic Ministries Constituent
Francophone Constituent
Francophone Constituent
Member at Large
Member at Large
Member at Large—Youth and Young Adult
Member at Large—Youth and Young Adult
Permanent Committee—Finance
Permanent Committee—Governance and Agenda
Permanent Committee—Ministry and Employment
Policies and Services
Permanent Committee—Programs for Mission
and Ministry
Representative to the World Council of Churches
Central Committee
Aboriginal Ministries Council
Aboriginal Ministries Council
Aboriginal Ministries Council
Aboriginal Ministries Council
Aboriginal Ministries Council
Aboriginal Ministries Council
Theology and Inter-Church Inter-Faith Committee
General Council Planning Committee
The Executive also has corresponding
members representing the national United
Church Women, The United Church
Observer, and our global partners.

Remember,
Renew,
Rejoice!
The United Church of Canada is
85 years strong in 2010.
Learn all about our history, our beliefs, and
our ministry: www.united-church.ca
Join the discussion at WonderCafe:
www.wondercafe.ca
View the United Church channel on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/unitedchurchofcanada
Also, explore websites maintained by many
of our local congregations and community
ministries.
The following priorities guided United
Church work in 2009:
The United Church of Canada/L’Église Unie du Canada 2010
3250 Bloor St. West, Suite 300, Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4
1-800-268-3781 www.united-church.ca
Writer: Julie Kinkaid
Design: Carina Cruz Domingues
All biblical quotations are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible,
copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United
States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Textes bibliques en français tirés de La Bible en français courant révisée ©
Société biblique française, 1997. Avec autorisation.
Front cover images and pottery images throughout: Design Pics
Uncredited photos: The United Church of Canada
For copies of this annual report, visit www.UCRDstore.ca.
La version française complète de ce rapport annuel est disponible en
ligne au www.united-church.ca.
• deepening our experience of intentional
and authentic communities; stretching
beyond the familiar expressions and
concerns of our church, with particular
commitment to youth and young adult
ministry, an intercultural church, and
living with respect in creation
• supporting and developing
congregational ministries
• supporting and empowering ministry
personnel
• addressing the church’s brokenness in
the relationships with Aboriginal peoples
and moving toward healing and building
right relations
For comments on this annual report or story
suggestions for future reports, please e-mail
giving@united-church.ca.
090287

2008–2009
Bringing you up to date
A Christian Response to Hunger
Last year we reported on our partnership with
Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB). In 2009, CFGB
extended food relief in Kenya after the spring
drought and distributed seeds and tools in Haiti
after a hurricane in the fall. Prior to the UN climate
change summit in Copenhagen, CFGB prepared a
brief for the federal Finance Minister on helping
vulnerable communities adapt to climate change.
Emerging Spirit
In 2009, the United Church’s 40th General Council
directed the Executive to find ways and means
to preserve the WonderCafe website; to consult
across the church about applying what we learned
from Emerging Spirit; to invite the Emerging
Spirit leadership team to provide consultation;
and to incorporate emerging church principles to
leadership development, needs assessment, search
practices, and curriculum development.
Wendy Galloway
Design Pics
Alex Neve
The Values of Rural Ministry
In the 2008 Annual Report you read about a trust
fund supporting rural ministry. Both Anne McGrath
and Leigh Sinclair were encouraged to reapply for
the 2009 Clifford Elliott rural ministry award, and
each received the award for a second and final year
of study.
Training Our Future Leaders
In 2008 we told you about our connections with
Future Quest, a summer experience for youth held
at Queen’s theological school in Kingston, Ontario.
Thanks to support from The United Church of
Canada Foundation, a Future Quest winter reunion
encouraged participants to stay connected and to
continue their interest in community, theology, and
leadership.
CH10691