GC45

GC45 KAIROS Report for Summer 2025

Origin: KAIROS, Submitted by Leah Reesor-Keller, Transitional Executive Director

Background

KAIROS: Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives is a program of the United Church of Canada that functions as a joint social venture bringing ten Canadian church denominations and agencies to work together for faithful action for justice and peace. Under the direction of The United Church of Canada, the KAIROS Steering Committee, composed of representatives of the member churches and agencies, administers the program. Launched in 2001, KAIROS carries the legacy of over forty years of inter-church social justice coalitions.

Governance and Operations

2024 marked significant progress in KAIROS’ journey towards establishing itself as an independent charity. The New Kairos Working Group, formed of representatives from KAIROS members, developed organizational bylaws. The new entity Kairos: Faithful Action for Justice was formed and incorporated as a non-profit organization with board members drawn from the current Steering Committee. In 2024, work continued on the application for charitable status. When charitable status is received, KAIROS can then move assets and start the transition process to operate independently from UCC. See diagram below for an overview of the transition process.