Emerging Spirit @ The United Church of Canada Emerging Spirit @ The United Church of Canada

Why Welcome?

Why are so many young adults no longer able to find a home within The United Church of Canada?

Many United Church of Canada people can remember when the voices of children and young people filled our halls. What happened to those children and grandchildren?

Research shows that many people between the ages of 30 and 45 simply do not know of the existence of The United Church of Canada, much less what beliefs and actions mark the church.

Others lump The United Church of Canada in with broad stereotypes of religion gained from television and movies and view us as judgmental, not willing to listen, arrogant and, if nothing else, boring.

At the same time, interest in the larger culture about matters of the faith and the spirit are high. Very many seek opportunities for inquiry and conversation, community and means through which to live out their values in a way that makes a difference.

Many congregations are now struggling. They worry about the decline in membership and resources. Some generations are missing almost entirely from congregations. Discouragement and resignation often visit leaders and members.

Other congregations find themselves in the midst of communities of younger families. They yearn to reach out to these people in their neighbourhoods, but wonder about how to do this.

Still other congregations find their ministries with younger families are growing and seek resources and training so they can provide genuine Christian hospitality and community.

There are some many challenges and possibilities that many congregational leaders can feel overwhelmed when they approach the work of starting a welcoming ministry in their congregation.