2026 National Gathering for Youth, Young Adults and Leaders
Collective: (em)brace 2026
August 12-15, 2026
Brock University, St. Catherines, ON
This spirit-filled gathering offers a space to grow in faith, build community, and reflect on shared experiences. Every day is filled with worship, recreation, discipleship groups, interactive workshops, and of course, delicious meals.
Why (Em)brace for Impact?
Today’s world can feel heavy. Often, we find ourselves “bracing” for the next challenge. At Collective, we want to transform that feeling. We gather to embrace one another in care and authenticity, and we prepare to embrace our calling to make a positive impact in the world through the way of Jesus.
There is a dedicated space for you:
- Youth Stream: A vibrant space for high school youth to be seen, heard, and valued. (entering High School in the Fall 2026)
- Young Adult Stream: An environment for 19-25 year-olds to wrestle with big ideas and explore bold leadership.
- Leadership Stream: For clergy and lay leaders to find renewal, practical training, and community.
The Full Experience includes dynamic worship with Rev. Shalini Rajack-Sankarlal and Rev. Jeffrey Dale, small-group Discipleship Groups, and workshops ranging from “Climate Motivators” to “Improv.”
Registration Details: Open until June 15th
Visit COLLECTIVE-GATHERING.CA to learn more, find registration details, and follow us on Instagram @collective_gathering_2026.
- Registration: $450.00 (Includes 3 nights of housing and all meals).
- Travel: Shuttle buses will be available from Toronto Pearson Airport for just $20 each way. Travel by GO Train to St. Catherine’s.
- Accessibility: We are committed to being an inclusive space with accessible facilities and sensory-friendly resources.
Financial support? The Region offers financial support to participants. Contact Faith Formation Minister, Shawn Redden, to receive a discount code to use at time of registration.
More Information
Download this printable brochure.
Watch a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PureSnpwH4g
Attend the National Information Session on April 15 1pm
Staff Support

SHAWN REDDEN
Justice and Faith Formation Minister
Direct Phone: 249-489-2004
Email: sredden@united-church.ca
Serves in: Shining Waters and Canadian Shield Regional Councils
Location: Teleworks from her home
Role: Shawn encourages and connects communities of faith with matters of faith and justice and the regional council in youth and young adult ministry and matters of faith formation and liaises with the General Council in this regard.
Contact Shawn about: Affirming Ministry; Camping Ministries; Faith Formation; Guaranteed Income; Harm Reduction; Homelessness; Poverty; Social and Eco-justice; Worship and Music; Youth and Young Adult Ministry, United Church Women (UCW)

CELIO de ANDRADE SANTOS Jr.
Administrative Support
Toll Free: 1-888-747-9063, Ext. 6
Direct Phone: 249-480-0390
Email: cdeandrade@united-church.ca
Serves in: Shining Waters Regional Council and Canadian Shield Regional Council
Location: Teleworks and works in the Guthrie office
Role: Celio provides administrative support to Shining Waters and Canadian Shield Regional Councils.