As we prepare for back-to-school time, return to the programs, activities and fall work of our communities of faith, are you exploring different ideas? Perhaps a blessing of the backpacks? Gathering school supplies to support those in need? Exploring needs locally for breakfast programs or lunch programs in schools, or considering innovative opportunities to bring people together within your community of faith and beyond its doors? Are you observing grandparents day Sept. 8? Perhaps invite grandparents and grandchildren to share photos and/or stories of memory making moments. Encourage some card making. Visit care homes and talk with people about their memories. Consider welcome back fall celebrations with meals or snacks. With your worship committee, plan to include special calendar dates throughout the year. Perhaps Peace Day Sept. 21, Orange Shirt Day Sept. 30, World Communion Oct. 6, Thanksgiving Oct. 13, World Food Sunday Oct. 20 (World Food Day Oct. 16, Eradication of Poverty Oct. 17) to name a few. Happy Creation time! Contact me and let me know what activities you are up to, or let’s brainstorm ideas in your context.
United Church of Canada News
- E-ssentials Special Edition: Orange Shirt Day/National Day for Truth and Reconciliation September 30, 2026
- E-ssentials: Next General Secretary Appointed, the Moderator’s Orange Shirt Day Message, and more! September 29, 2026
- E-ssentials: Grassy Narrows River Run Rally Tomorrow, Welcome Global South LGBTQIA+ Partners, and more! September 22, 2026
- E-ssentials: Indigenous and Racialized Young Scholars Program, Dismantling Systemic Racism, and more! September 15, 2026