News and Blogs
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Currents | Wellspring | Blogs | UCC News Feed | Staff
Currents
‘Currents’ is the latest news from Shining Waters Regional Council. A regular newsletter updating our region with information on what the various commissions, committees and SWRC Executive are working on.
Currents – The Latest News for April 2024
The latest news from Shining Waters Regional Council
Currents – The Latest News for February 2024
The latest news from Shining Waters Regional Council
Currents – The Latest News for December 2023
The latest news from Shining Waters Regional Council
Wellspring
‘Wellspring’ is a regular blog about inspiring stories from around the region, written by Susie Henderson and other occasional contributors.
A haven of hospitality
A French-speaking faith community in Toronto is a place of welcome for francophones wanting to gather and pray in the “language of the heart” Like many newcomers to Canada, Stephen Keleko felt unmoored when he first arrived in Toronto three years ago. Originally from...
Christmas, Choral Music, and COVID-19
This year’s season of song will be remote but relevant. Choirs across the region are offering the gift of gorgeous music—virtual and pre-recorded—as a healing balm in these hurting times.
Allyship in Action
“By putting this symbol on the ground in a permanent way, we were making our commitment as an Affirming congregation big and visible,” explains Jeffrey Dale, Grace United’s former youth minister coordinator who is now full-time staff with Shining Waters Regional Ministry.
Blogs
A Sower Went Out to Sow
‘A Sower Went Out to Sow’ is a blog discussing what we are learning about digital ministry in the region. Written by Susie Henderson and the occasional contributor.
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Clergy Peer Learning Groups Blog
‘Clergy Peer Learning Groups’ is a blog discussing the merit and benefits of starting a clergy peer learning group. Written by SWRC Pastoral Relations Minister, Rev. Todd McDonald.
Together We Have Each Other’s Back
Hello friends!
After over two years of life with COVID, I’ve heard many people describe the changes in the contours of their congregational life. When I think about those United Church folk for whom attending church is their primary way to be in community and experience God, online worship, separation from each other, and fear of catching a virus, has left some feeling loss, deep loss. As we learned many years ago…
Welcome to My Clergy Peer Learning Groups Blog
Welcome friends!
For the next while I would like to talk about clergy peer learning groups, something we are currently promoting within Shining Waters. This is my first time trying to write a blog so bear with me! I began ministry in Newfoundland. There were so many good relationships to be had with the people of that four-point pastoral charge. But I remember being…
UCC News Feed
A compilation of the latest news from The United Church of Canada.
United Church of Canada
- Christmas Blessings December 23, 2024The General Council Office wishes you peace and joy this Christmas season. We are now closed for the holidays and will be back at work on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
- More than 100 Francophone Youth Attended First-Time United Church Event December 10, 2024La rencontre nationale des jeunes francophones du Canada (Ré-unis) brought together young francophones from across Canada for the first time. The event was in Sherbrooke, QC, November 29‒December 1,… continue reading
- Visit Strengthens Ties with Canadian Members of WCC December 9, 2024World Council of Churches’ General Secretary hosted by the Canadian Council of Churches on visit to Canada, including a stop at the national office of The United Church of Canada
- Moderator’s Christmas Message 2024 December 9, 2024The birth of the Christ Child among us changed our world forever. So, this Christmas, the Moderator invites us to look around at the signs of change and new life.
- Elders Have Set a Path Forward for the Indigenous Church December 2, 2024The National Indigenous Spiritual Gathering met in Winnipeg from November 29 through December 2 for a time of discussion, reflection, and prayer.
- Rainbow Steps Vandalized After Inclusive Public Hymn Sing December 2, 2024A candlelight vigil on December 1 responded to vandalism of the rainbow steps at an Affirming church in Brighton, Ontario, shortly after the regional council held an inclusive hymn sing on those same… continue reading
Staff Support
DONNA RUTZ
Communications and Administrative Support
Phone: 416-231-7680 | 1-800-268-3781
Extension: 6145
Email: drutz@united-church.ca
Serves in: Shining Waters Regional Council
Location: Teleworks from her home in Toronto
Role: Donna provides administrative support to the region as a whole including communications, record-keeping, event planning, office management, and reception.
Contact Donna about: General Inquiries; Community Events; Communication Oversite; Covenanting Services; General Inquiries; Records Management; Regional Events; Social Media; Updating Contact/Subscription Information; Website.
RACHAEL HOWES
Executive Assistant and Administrative Support
Phone: 416-231-7680 | 1-800-268-3781
Extension: 6144
Email: rhowes@united-church.ca
Serves in: Shining Waters Regional Council and Canadian Shield Regional Council
Location: Works from the Main Office in Guthrie, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Role: Rachael provides administrative support to the Executive Minister, Regional Council Executive, and related Commissions.
Contact Rachael about: General Inquiries; Conference Call Booking; Copyright Information; Currents Newsletter; Family News; Incorporated Ministries; Minutes and Policies; Nominations; Regional Meeting.