eNews: March 19, 2025 – Issue 170

This Issue:

• Letter from the UU Ministers of Canada
  
• Conversation with Annahid Dashtgard, Author of Bones of Belonging: Finding Wholeness in a White World
• Time to Register for CanUUdle XXV: AdventUUre on the High Seas!
• Letter from the Dismantling Barriers Lead
• Whatever you do, please DO NOT host UU Expressions Podcast Listening Parties
• Meet a Music Director: Rachel Derry
• Celebrating Trans Day of Visibility
• Virtual Hymnal “Sing Out Love” Submissions are Open!
• Magical Mayhem Summer Camp
• Adventure Awaits: A Farewell Celebration for Rev. Linda Thomson
• Congregational Conversations Spring 2025 Schedule
• Things to Know About the CUC
• What’s Making us Smile
• CUC Events from March 19 to June 26, 2025
  

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Letter from the UU Ministers of Canada

Both/And Thinking in Turbulent Times
Revs. Ben Robins and Samaya Oakley

As we move through 2025, we find ourselves in a place of needing to ground ourselves in an attitude of “both/and.” Do we value self-reliance or interdependence? Both. Do we honour tradition or embrace change? Both. In turbulent times, the temptation is to choose just one—to counter fire with fire or to douse everything in water. But such one-dimensional responses can lead us further into polarization rather than wholeness.

When our southern neighbor acts aggressively—too much yang—some of us respond in kind, while others counter with more yin, centering compassion and nonviolence. But the world needs both. Barry Johnson, in And, describes how we overvalue one side until its downsides emerge, forcing us to swing in the opposite direction. We value individual freedom until isolation sets in, then we turn to community—only to later feel constrained and return to independence. Instead of these wild swings, we must learn to integrate both values.

Our Unitarian Universalist principles hold this balance: our First Principle honors the individual, while our Seventh acknowledges our interdependence. When you tell me one of your values, I begin to know you. But I know you more deeply when I see how that value interacts with others—how you balance caring for a neighbor with recognizing when they need space, or how you protect a child while also encouraging their independence. A free society and an interdependent one. Both/and.

This thinking is essential in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. We are emerging from COVID while navigating global crises—the war in Ukraine, conflict in Gaza and Israel, the rise of climate emergencies. At home, polarization is intensifying. The RCMP warns of populist movements capitalizing on conspiracy theories, and the Canadian Human Rights Commission reports a dramatic rise in Islamophobia, antisemitism, and racism-fueled hate. Transphobia is growing.

Authoritarianism is on the rise, and those forces are highly organized and well-funded. Decades ago, evangelical strategists, feeling politically marginalized, began systematically electing their people into small offices to gain experience for higher levels of government. Seventy years later, their movement has reshaped entire political landscapes. Meanwhile, many of us retreat into personal bubbles, denial, or distraction. It can feel easier to ignore what’s happening if there’s a feeling that, well, it’s not happening to me—at least, not yet.

But every spiritual and philosophical tradition asks fundamental questions: Why are we here? What is our purpose? How do we live together? Perhaps before answering those, we must first ask: Who do we choose to be? From that, the rest follows.

In the face of fear and division, we can choose to respond with love. Viktor Frankl, in Man’s Search for Meaning, wrote that our final freedom is to choose our attitude in any given circumstance. Today, in what some call an “age of retreat”—from one another, from shared values, from faith in basic human goodness—we are called to resist the pull of disconnection. Instead of turning against each other, instead of retreating into fear, what if we organized ourselves around love?

Unitarian Universalism calls us to embody connection here and now. This interconnection is sacred. And it is not something we can sustain alone. Theologian John Luther Adams, active in the anti-Nazi resistance, spoke of the power of voluntary associations—people freely choosing to work together for a shared vision. Today, we must extend that spirit outward, forming alliances with others who share our values. Love calls us to rise together, to make a spectacle of our care for this world.

To love means to see the world clearly, not as we wish it to be. It may feel overwhelming, but if we open ourselves to the world as it is, we may discover that gentleness, decency, and bravery are within reach—not just for us, but for all people. Activist and author Valarie Kaur speaks of “revolutionary love”—a love that labours for others, for our opponents, and for ourselves.

Ours is a faith that calls us to action. It is not enough to say, “I’m a UU, I can believe whatever I want.” We must believe enough in our values to live them. We must believe enough in our commitments to act on them.

This is the time to come together—not in retreat, not in fear, but in love. Let us rise.

UU Ministers of Canada
Co-Presidents, The Revs. Ben Robins and Samaya Oakley

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Conversation: Annahid Dashtgard, Author of Bones of Belonging: Finding Wholeness in a White World 

What does it mean to belong? This question lies at the heart of Annahid Dashtgard’s powerful new book, Bones of Belonging: Finding Wholeness in a White World (2023). Through interconnected stories, Dashtgard explores the multifaceted nature of belonging and how it shapes our identities, relationships, and sense of purpose.

Join us for a special conversation with Dashtgard to explore Belonging on March 26, 2025, from 7 to 8 PM ET. This is a unique opportunity to ask questions, share insights, and deepen your understanding of the themes in Bones of Belonging. The book was featured as a UU Read selection for the 2025 Sharing Our Faith program.

As the CEO of Anima Leadership, a racial justice consulting firm, Dashtgard brings personal and professional insight to this profoundly reflective work. Her earlier memoir, Breaking the Ocean, chronicled her journey as an Iranian immigrant navigating racism and bullying in Canada. In Bones of Belonging, she expands on these themes, inviting readers to examine their own experiences of belonging—and the barriers that often stand in the way.

We’re excited to offer a book study guide to accompany your exploration of Bones of Belonging. Each chapter delves into a different dimension of belonging, from our connection to the land and ancestors to our sense of purpose and community. The guide includes reflection questions to spark personal and group discussions.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll explore:

• • Chapter 1: Silver Birch – Belonging to the Land
    How do you feel connected to the land you inhabit? What does it mean to be rooted in a place?
  • Chapter 2: Lion’s Den – Belonging to Purpose
    What gives your life meaning? How do you define your purpose?
  • Chapter 3: Bad Immigrant – Belonging to a Country
    What does citizenship mean to you? How do racialized individuals experience belonging in your community?
  • Chapter 4: Dusty Road – Belonging in a Marriage
    How do intimate relationships challenge and shape your sense of self?
  • Chapter 5: Sky Dancing – Belonging to Our Ancestors
    How do your ancestors influence your identity? What traits or traditions do you carry forward?
  • Chapter 6: Rebel Body – Belonging Inside Our Skin
    Do you feel at home in your body? How do you navigate self-acceptance and self-judgment?
  • Chapter 7: Foreign Object – Belonging and Voice
    Have you ever spoken up against the status quo? What did it cost you—and what did you gain?
  • Chapter 8: Racial Imposter – Belonging to Community
    How do mixed-race individuals navigate identity and belonging? What can we learn from their experiences?
  • Chapter 9: Boss Lady – Belonging and Power
    How do power dynamics shape our sense of belonging? How can we use our privilege to create inclusive spaces?
  • Chapter 10: Ocean Intelligence – Belonging and Meaning-Making
    How do you find hope and meaning in the face of loss or adversity?

Register now to guarantee your spot!

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Time to Register for CanUUdle XXV: AdventUUre on the High Seas! 

Registration remains open for CanUUdle 2025, happening in Montreal from May 16th to 19th! 

Important Dates

• • April 15th: Minimum 30 registrations needed for program to proceed
  • May 1st: Registration deadline (midnight ET)
  • May 16th, 3 – 6pm – Arrive at CanUUdle!!!!
  • May 19th, 12pm – CanUUdle ends 🙁

What is CanUUdle? 

CanUUdle is the annual conference (“con”) for Canadian Unitarian Universalist youth ages 14-19 and their adult advisors (ages 25+). CanUUdle always happens over May long-weekend, and lasts from Friday evening to Monday at noon. The bulk of conference programming takes place at the host church building (Unitarian Church of Montreal this year). Youth and Advisors eat and sleep in the church for the duration of the weekend. 

CanUUdle is a youth-led con where youth and adults create an amazing community, worship together, attend workshops, play and grow as spiritual beings. It’s a beautiful weekend full of fun, laughter, games, discussion, thought, and above all, love and friendship—the special kind that can only be found in UU community! Many youth describe CanUUdle as a highlight of their Unitarian youth experience, as a place where they find acceptance, community, lasting friendships, and where their unique personalities can shine. If you are new to UU youth cons or CanUUdle, check out the CanUUdle page and the New to Youth Cons page for more information!

All aboard mateys!

We are super grateful and excited to be hosted this year by the Unitarian Church of Montreal at their beautiful sunny building! The CanUUdle staff team is already hard at work planning a swashbuckling good time. Meet this year’s volunteer staff team!

• • Co-Deans: Esmé Demers (Vancouver) and Percy Bomford-Moore (Vancouver)
  • Worship Coordinators: Dan LeDuc (Winnipeg/Peterborough), Laura Yee (Burnaby)
  • Activities Coordinators: Harper Fountain-Stevens (Vancouver), Quinn Koeller Smirnios (Waterloo)
  • Chalice Circle Coordinator: Rose Chernoff (Vancouver) 
  • Community Captain: Ben Smith (Victoria)
  • Social Media Coordinator: Katharine Rouse (Victoria/Kirkland, WA)
  • Youth Chaplain: Lila Grierson (Vancouver)
  • Adult Chaplain: Yvette Salinas (Montreal) 
  • Advisors’ Advisor (Lead Advisor): Tim Murphy (Indianapolis) 
  • CanUUdle Coordinator – CUC Staff: Raven Booth (Halifax)
  • Unitarian Church of Montreal Liaison: Katherine Childs 

There will be opportunities for others to contribute to the con in small yet important ways, such as facilitating small groups (Chalice Circles) and leading short energy breaks with a stretch, a song, or something silly! Look for the sign-ups on your registration form.  

Adult Advisors 

CanUUdle is for advisors, too! Learn more about what’s involved with being an adult advisor at this con on the Adult Advisors page. Adult Advisors need to have a Congregational Involvement Form submitted on their behalf by a church staff or board member. If you have questions about being an advisor at CanUUdle, contact this the CanUUdle Coordinator canuudle@cuc.ca 

Cost & Financial Support

Registration is offered on a sliding scale, from $100 – $200. The cost per person to run this event is $150. If you are able to pay more than the middle tier, your contribution helps to cover the cost for those who cannot pay as much. 

Additionally, subsidies are available to help with registration costs. If the lowest registration tier presents a barrier, please indicate you are applying for a subsidy and your registration will be covered. Some funds to help with travel costs are available, register by March 31 to apply for a travel subsidy. Registration and travel subsidies can be applied for within the registration form. For more information on the Rev. Rod Fund for Youth and Young Adults, click here. 

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Letter from the Dismantling Barriers Lead
Camellia Jahanshahi

Dear Beloveds,

Since stepping into the role of Dismantling Barriers Lead with the CUC in October, I’ve been deeply engaged in learning, listening, and laying the groundwork for what’s ahead. My onboarding involved immersing myself in CUC’s existing materials, attending the staff and board retreat to meet colleagues, and gaining insight into the frameworks and relationships shaping this work.

In October and November, I began assessing CUC’s current offerings—taking inventory of past curriculums and identifying what needs updating or creating. The Dismantling Racism Study Guide has been a key resource, but as it was released a few years ago, I’ve also been paying close attention to emerging needs and how we can respond effectively. This has included developing an online accessibility guide and collaborating with staff on ongoing initiatives to see how my position can fit in. In addition to that I also started integrating myself slowly into ongoing programs by attending a Congregational Conversations meeting, and co-hosting December’s Connect and Deepen session.

Throughout this time, I’ve continued to hold monthly Rising Together gatherings for UU’s of Colour, offering a dedicated space for connection and support. In January, I released a burnout reflection tool alongside a community discussion, and began meeting with congregations at their request—supporting conversations around young adult spaces, the 8th Principle, and congregational self-reflection. February saw the creation of a Black History Month resource and reflection guide, an educational session to learn about Africville, and a vigil honoring lives lost to racialized and colonial violence. These were the first in many steps I hope to take specifically in addressing anti-Blackness and uncovering the “hidden histories” of Black Canadians so that we as a faith have more tools to address systematic anti-Blackness as part of our anti-racism mandate.

Now, as I work on a reflection guide for bylaws which will be the focus for March and April, I’m also looking ahead to continued collaborations with the Justice and Equity team and the wider CUC staff. In the months ahead, I have a lot to be excited about! I plan to continue offering resource packets that address more immediate needs through the end of June; to spend my summer really diving into longer format curriculums to share with you in the fall; to create more educational spaces to uncover Black, immigrant, and Indigenous histories at least once a season; to figure out how to facilitate more affinity group spaces; to host at least 2 vigils a year for us to participate in the sacred act of witnessing together; to continue to collect worship materials and resources around the 8th principle for congregations to explore; to continue collaborating with staff and beyond; and to continue to explore how we, as UUs, can live more fully into the 8th Principle. 

Thank you for being part of this journey—I look forward to learning and growing together!
Camellia Jahanshahi

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Whatever you do, please DO NOT host UU Expressions Podcast Listening Parties
Erin Horvath & Amber Bellemare, CUC Justice and Equity Team

Hi!
Erin and Amber here.

We’ve been wondering why there hasn’t been much feedback regarding the podcast series we launched last October. Was it something we said? No, because then surely we would have heard from you! We think it might be that either UU’s don’t know this podcast series exists, or there’s no real motivation to check it out. So we thought we might try a blend of reverse psychology, peer pressure, and fear of missing out to convince you to press the play button.

We know a lot of noise is out there, and it’s hard to make time for much these days.

Here’s Brad Gray from Sarnia Port Huron in their online newsletter encouraging congregational participation: “I have listened to the first three episodes of the “Love in Real Life” podcast. Two of the episodes, about engagement between older and younger adults drew my attention. Listening to them helped me better understand how diverse young adults’ interests are and what might attract them to join community organizations. Having experienced the excitement of belonging to an age diverse group, I want more of it.”

Brigitte Twomey, CUC’s Web Specialist, reflects on the impact of UUX on her regular UU gathering and discussion group: “While we wondered if the 10 podcasts would be a lot to take in, after the first we were engaged and motivated to keep listening! In fact, we were so excited about how dynamic the material was, and the conversation was so electric that we are thinking of bringing it to the Unitarian Congregation in Mississauga for further discussions.”

That’s not all! Hear from the other UU Expressions discussion group members:

Brenda Poole: “I thought the podcast was very well done. I liked how the 2 women talked together, going back and forth. I was impressed with the range of interviewees and how the issue was approached by various different angles. I thought the discussion questions and resources at the end of each session were a bonus too. Great work!!”

Sue Haugen: “That was a LOT of very important work. There was so much to process. In the end, I got more of a sense of what UU is in Canada in all its forms. At times, I thought: Well, that is the end of UU as we know it, but then I would think, not the end, but can include more ways to fulfill the needs met by UUism. UU can be kept relevant for the future because it fulfills and can fulfill the needs of so many. In some new ways it can connect people outside the walls of a physical church. I do enjoy being part of a physical congregation and being with the congregation most weeks, but I realise it is not feasible for everyone. It gave me a lot to think about!”

Laurel Dixon: “I thoroughly enjoyed listening to your podcasts. As a born and raised Unitarian I struggle with the feelings of no longer wanting to attend the congregation .I benefit tremendously from living out the UU principles in my work and family life as well as attending an affinity group (UU book club). The issues you brought to the fore really spoke to me and freed me and helped me to gain some understanding. I so appreciated the time, effort and research that went into highlighting the issues. These ideas have been transformative in helping to understand the issues at play! Bravo! These podcasts are filled with wisdom and I hope others will benefit from the depth of conversation our group experienced reviewing the podcasts. Thanks.”

Heather Epp: “The insights gained from the UU Expressions podcasts will bring us forward in our expressions of UU thinking for quite some time ahead. I learned so much and the supplemental links and documents are tremendous resources. I feel there was great effort to be clear and realistic and at the same time positive and enthusiastic which I appreciated.”

Charmaine Ferworn: “I appreciated the easy accessibility of the podcast format and recognition of the importance of Affinity groups in Unitarian Universalism. Our Affinity group listened to these current CUC ideas individually and later gathered together, in person, to discuss the potential viability of suggested UU future possibilities for our congregation with deeper knowledge as a result of these thoughtful episodes. Many thanks to the CUC podcast content creators.”

What’s all the hype about, you ask? 

This series is more than a collection of stories; it’s a call to action. As Unitarian Universalists, it’s easy to focus on the challenges within our communities, but this series reminds us that we are part of something bigger. Together, we can harness UUism’s collective energy to survive and thrive. You’ll also find expanded research notes, links, and thought-provoking questions in the show notes for each episode—perfect for small group discussions or personal reflection.

All you have to do is click the link and follow the prompts in each episode. You can listen on Spotify, Apple Music, download the audio file on your device, watch the video version on YouTube, or read the transcripts! The supporting materials are right there in each episode. Read them before or after you listen. It’s all up to you.

We have got you covered, we just need you to hear these incredible UU stories and share them with your community. 

And that’s why we are encouraging small groups to host their very own UU Expressions listening parties, to take advantage of the reflection materials, and let the conversation ignite a new flame. You can listen to all 10 at home and meet up to chat, or listen together, one episode at a time. It’s entirely up to you!

No Building? No problem! If you want to set up a listening and/or discussion party and don’t have a community, please register here by Sunday, April 13 and we will put you in contact with others looking for the same thing.

Imagine coming to the AGM this year having heard these incredible stories?

This series will bring you up to speed on what’s happening across the country RIGHT NOW and how it all connects to the bigger picture. UU Expressions: Love in Real Life is just the beginning of a vital conversation. 

Who is willing to co-create what comes next? Listen here

Who should listen to this series? 

• • If you are a concerned member of a congregation in decline,
  • If you are a youth or young adult who envisions a UUism that reflects your unique needs and priorities,
  • If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and innovative ideas!
  • If you are passionate about the history of our movement and maintaining a sense of tradition,
  • If you love to serve the needs of your community,
  • If you are a part of a religious organization that is challenged by the decline of religious interest,
  • If you feel isolated, out of touch, or disconnected from the greater collective,
  • If you care about making positive change in the world and want to hear how some people are doing it,
  • If you feel uninspired or uncommitted,
  • If you find money to be a barrier to full inclusion,
  • If you struggle to find volunteers or are burnt out from carrying the weight of responsibilities in your community,
  • If you want to stay current and involved,
  • Then this series is for YOU.

Listen, watch, and read here. 

Join Us on This Journey

Whether new to UUism or a lifelong member, we invite you to explore this series. In a group or on your own: listen, reflect, and imagine what UUism can become when we think beyond scarcity and embrace abundance.

Start your journey today with Episode 1: Wildflowers.

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Meet a Music Director: Rachel Derry

Rachel Derry has served as the Music Director for the First Unitarian Church of Hamilton since 2007. She was drawn to the position by a lifelong interest in religious music, as well as the ability to program a wide variety of music that the role offered.

“I think music is such a spiritual component,” she says. “So that speaks to me. I think the variety of music and the ability to share and the willingness to explore how music can feed us and minister to us in different contexts and different styles. As well as just the talented group of people that I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by.”

A regular attendee of Association of UU Music Ministries conferences in the past, Rachel says issues around the choice of appropriate music for congregational settings has been a hot topic within these circles for many years. 

“A lot of those conversations, I would say dating back quite a long time, were about appropriation of music. When we use music from different cultures in our services, what is our role in that, or from what place are we coming from? So it has changed quite a bit because the call for context has come, where we actually discuss where the songs come from and why they’re being sung in a certain way.”

In addition to her role as Music Director, Rachel is also a social worker who works with children and families. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her two cats.

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Celebrating Trans Day of Visibility

Rev. Samaya Oakley of Calgary Unitarians is preparing for the congregation to mark Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31, an event she hopes other UU congregations across Canada will honour as well. 

“If I could, I would love to wave my magic wand and have every Canadian UU congregation across Canada do something to visibly say to the trans community in which they’re located that they are welcome,” she says. “Even making sure that their trans flag was outside of their building. Just something to let the trans community know across Canada that Canadian UU congregations can provide a home, If they’re looking for a spiritual home.”

Calgary Unitarians’ service on March 30 will feature a panel discussion of the book Authentic Selves, the Unitarian Universalist Association’s common read for 2024-25, which will be followed by a four-session group discussion over the subsequent weeks. Oakley believes the interviews with trans and non-binary people within the book make it important reading for UUs.

“The subjects in the book share their real lives, their revelations, challenges, and  joys,” she says. “And the common read invites us to explore the nature of living authentically and the ways connections among us help us to thrive.”

Oakley believes that marking Transgender Day of Visibility is a critical action for UUs to take in these times.

“The way I look at it is If we truly are on the side of love, if that is what we profess, then when we say We honour and affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every person, then that means we honour the inherent worth and dignity of every single person,” she says. “And that’s why I think it’s so important that we honour this day because it’s a day that celebrates trans lives.”

In addition to marking this day, Oakley encourages UUs to act year-round by supporting organizations advocating for trans rights, considering recertification as a Welcoming Congregation, and making space for a variety of gender options on congregational registration forms.

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Virtual Hymnal “Sing Out Love” Submissions are Open!
Rev. Erika Hewitt and Camille Hatton on behalf of Sing Out Love

In consultation with the Association for Unitarian Universalist Music Ministries (AUUMM), the Unitarian Universalist Association’s Virtual Hymnal Task Force has been at work since March 2023.

Our Vision: to build a living collection of song resources through an accessible, equitable, online platform grounded in UU values. This virtual hymnal will help Unitarian Universalism live into our prophetic calling as a joyful, liberatory, and anti-oppressive faith.

That’s right: our UUA virtual hymnal is called Sing Out Love. We love the way this name continues the lineage of our hymnals: from Singing the Living Tradition to Singing the Journey to Las voces del camino, we believe that Sing Out Love orients us to this moment in the unfolding story of our faith.

More exciting news: our Song Selection Team is ready for your submissions. They’ve poured themselves into crafting thoughtful Sing Out Love Submission Guidelines that center our values of equity and diversity.

Please read the Guidelines thoroughly before visiting our Sing Out Love submission form, and thank you for noting that no submissions may be sent by email.

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Magical Mayhem Summer Camp – Save the Date for 2025!
Kiersten Moore, Director of Lifespan Faith Development, Vancouver Unitarians

July 21-25, 2025: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, ages 7-12 and Leadership Development (14-17)

Join Vancouver Unitarians in Integria this summer. This archipelago nation in the middle of the Bermuda Triangle makes its appearance but once a year! The magic guilds of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water need your creativity and imagination to address the problems that reach into the far corners of the world. Spend a week exploring social justice issues through the avenue of role play, theatre, ritual, nature magic, and fun! 

The guiding value is Radical Inclusivity with love at the centre. Children are honoured here from the gender creative to the neurospicy to families of all backgrounds and identities. They support every child to thrive, be themselves, show up and participate in the way that works for them. Magical camp at Vancouver Unitarians has been running since 2018 making magic for children and adults alike.

The camp is currently accepting applications for staff positions. This camp is delightfully quirky and an amazing container to play and work for a week. Info and application links are available here. 

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Adventure Awaits: A Farewell Celebration for Rev. Linda Thomson

Saturday June 7, 2025: 1:00 pm PT | 2:00 pm MT | 3:00 pm CT | 4:00 pm ET | 5:00 pm AT | 5:30 pm NT (3 hours)
Location: In Person in Toronto and Streamed (Speeches) 4:30-6:30 pm ET 

After 23 years of dedication and hard work, our wonderful colleague and friend, Linda, is setting off on her next great adventure—retirement!

Since Linda, a happy camper,  loves the great outdoors, we’re sending her off in style with an event inspired by her favorite pastimes—camping and canoeing. Join us for an afternoon of memories and celebrations as we wish her well on this exciting new journey.  

Let’s gather to share stories, express our appreciation, and give Linda a warm send-off as she embarks on this new chapter. 

Linda finds deep meaning in reflecting on how she has inspired and impacted congregations.  Please bring these in-person or type them here.

If you have any photos of Linda, over the years with her work with the CUC, please upload them here: 

Registration: in-person participants please register by May 31st. Online participants can register up to the time of the event.

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Congregational Conversations Spring 2025 Schedule

The “CUC Congregational Conversations Series” continues this spring.  Congregational leaders have shared timely themes and we’re holding spaces for your highest priority topics. Please see below for details. While the focus of this series is primarily congregational, all are welcome. We appreciate your RSVP for planning purposes.

• • Saturday, March 22 – Hard Conversations (2nd run)
    A Healthy community anticipates there will be hard conversations.  Join us as we consider challenges and best practices.
  • Wednesday, April 9 – Transitions (1 of 2)
    Many of us are experiencing changes and transitions in our congregations. How do you handle the transitions you are facing? Perhaps you are looking for ideas on how to help your community face change with grace? Maybe you are looking for ideas.
  • Saturday, April 12 -Transitions (2 of 2)
    Many of us are experiencing changes and transitions in our congregations. How do you handle the transitions you are facing? Perhaps you are looking for ideas on how to help your community face change with grace? Maybe you are looking for ideas.

We look forward to gathering with you soon. Please feel free to share this information with anyone you think would benefit, & everyone you hope will attend. 

Your Congregational Life Team,
Anne Barker & Linda Thomson
congregationallife@cuc.ca

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Things to Know About the CUC  

The CUC’s Annual General Meeting brings together congregations and UUs to make decisions about matters that affect our collective national faith community.  This year, the AGM is held online. Participants and delegates will discuss and vote on the 2025-2026 budget and receive reports from task forces and committees (anyone may attend but only congregationally-approved delegates may vote). For 2025, the CUC Board has approved the use of the Gradients of Agreement decision-making tool for use during the AGM.

Before the AGM, in March and April, join in three hosted conversations for an orientation to this tool, to ask questions, and to share your feedback. The sessions will be held on March 19, April 19 and May 7 – come to one of these sessions to learn more.  Information about Gradients will be sent out prior to the first session.  CUC Board members will be present at each session.  

These conversations are of interest to congregational delegates, leaders, young adults, anti-racism/dismantling barriers advocates, ministers. All are welcome to these sessions, whether or not you are a delegate for your congregation. Each session will cover the same ground, offering several dates so you can choose the date and time that suits you. 

Each congregation which is in good standing with the Canadian Unitarian Council is entitled to a specific number of voting delegates, in accordance with CUC bylaws Section 3.1. Delegates must be registered by May 7 in order to vote.

Congregational delegates should have:

• • Knowledge of the proposed motions, and indications from the congregation about how to vote
  • A level of comfort using online technology
  • A laptop or desktop with web camera, microphone and speakers
  • Reliable high-speed internet

Delegates are encouraged to sign up for the delegates email group, if they are not already a member, by emailing info@cuc.ca with a request to join. 

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What’s Making Us Smile

UUs may be divided on whether or not there’s a God, but this dog is hoping there is one (and that he can rescind his prayer to keep his owner at home with him forever).