Commissioners for 45th General Council gathered Saturday for learning and discussion session

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With the theme “What is the vision/dream for United Church ministry leadership?” in mind, General Council Commissioners took part in a day of learning and discussion sessions on Saturday, June 28. This was the only time to discuss a list of 14 proposals; based on the discussion during Saturday’s session, the Way Forward Committee may adjust these proposals for General Council in August. 

After the session opened with worship, the Commissioners listened to a presentation from the Theology and Inter-Church Inter-Faith committee on a statement on vocations of the whole people of God. This was followed by a presentation on the total compensation task group's proposal. There was time for clarifying questions, discussion in small groups, a presentation on justice principles, and a Mission and Service moment, which highlighted the ministry of the Healing with Horses program. 

Reminders 

The 45th General Council of The United Church of Canada constituted online on Sunday, June 22. Watch the recording from that session, now available on The United Church of Canada YouTube channel. The in-person portion of the Council will be at the TELUS Convention Centre in Calgary, Alberta, from August 7–11, with the new Moderator being elected by August 9 and installed on August 11.  

Some highlights  

• Thursday, Aug. 7: Dinner and meet-and-greet with Commissioners and Moderator nominees.
• Friday, Aug. 8: Apology to the 2S and LGTBQIA+ communities, held at Knox United Church, 506 4 St. SW, Calgary, Alberta at 9 am MT (registration here).
• Saturday, Aug. 9: Final ballot (if required) on election of new Moderator. See nominees standing for election.
• Sunday, Aug. 10: Alvin Dixon Walk/Run (7 am MT) and keynote speaker, Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, General Minister and President, United Church of Christ USA (7 pm).
• Monday, Aug. 11: Installation of the new Moderator, held at Knox United Church, 506 4 St. SW, Calgary, Alberta. Scheduled for 5 pm but time is subject to change based on governance proceedings.