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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240716T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240716T120000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240710T180907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240710T180907Z
UID:15316-1721124000-1721131200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-human-resources-commission-meeting-12/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240709T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240709T090000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240710T180553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240710T180553Z
UID:15310-1720515600-1720515600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-human-resources-commission-meeting-12/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240703
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240707
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20231003T155001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231003T155246Z
UID:10916-1719964800-1720310399@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Rendez-Vous 2024 - Audacious Hope
DESCRIPTION:Youth\, Young Adults\, and Those Who Lead Them:\n\n\nSave the Date!\n\n\nAudacious Hope\nJuly 3-6\, 2024\, Brock University\, St. Catharines\, ON\n\n\nBrought to you by the Rendez-vous team of The United Church of Canada and the LIFT team of the Presbyterian Church in Canada.\n\n\nMore information soon!\n\n\n#UCCan #AudaciousHope2024
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/rendez-vous-2024-audacious-hope/
CATEGORIES:2SLGBTQIA,Affirming,Anti-Racism,Camps & Retreats,Climate Change,Community,Event,Indigenous Justice,Kids and Youth,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Music,Regional Council,Social Justice,Speakers,Staff
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240618T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240618T120000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240603T181422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240603T181422Z
UID:14510-1718704800-1718712000@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-human-resources-commission-meeting-11/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240613T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240613T150000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240227T154632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240607T165936Z
UID:13313-1718278200-1718290800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Regional Council Orientation
DESCRIPTION:To be held at: St. Andrews United Church\, Chatham\, ON
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-executive-and-commissions-orientation-2/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240611T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240611T090000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240603T180318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240603T180318Z
UID:14504-1718096400-1718096400@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-human-resources-commission-meeting-11/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240608T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240608T143000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240131T163913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240318T142514Z
UID:13065-1717840800-1717857000@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:The Day of Fellowship - Horseshoe Falls
DESCRIPTION:Register Now\n  \nSave the Date: \nThe Day of Fellowship will launch us into the year long Centenary Celebration of the United Church with Greetings from General Secretary\, The Rev. Michael Blair. \nRenewal and Transformation … A Season of Hope \nThe day will begin with Gathering at 10:00am \nMorning service 10:30am – 12:00 noon \nLunch Break 12:00 noon – 1:00pm \nAfternoon Session from 1-2:30pm (cultural expressions from around the region).
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/the-day-of-fellowship-horseshoe-falls/
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Festival,Learning Opportunity,Music,Regional Council,Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/DAYOFFELLOWSHIPHF-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240607
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240609
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240408T194015Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240408T195857Z
UID:13822-1717718400-1717891199@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Kids Across the Regions 2024
DESCRIPTION:Camp Bimini\, St. Paul’s\, Ontario (Google map) \nKids Across the Regions is a fun\, faith-filled weekend for children (in grades 4-8) from across the three regional councils of Antler River Watershed\, Western Ontario Waterways and Horseshoe Falls of The United Church of Canada! \nPlease note: your GPS and/or Google Maps will not lead you to the camp! Download a Camp Map and Directions\, Participant Letter\, Permission Form and Packing List.\nThese are also attached in the Confirmation Email once you submit your registration. \nKnowing that families have different financial realities\, we offer a Voluntary Three-Tier Pricing System. Participants can choose the tier that is most suitable for their family: $50\, $60\, $70 (closest to actual cost). There is no cost for Leaders. \nPayment is by E-Transfer to hfrc@united-church.ca. \nAPPLICATION DEADLINE: MAY 24th Your application\, signatures & payment are required to complete your registration. If you don’t receive a Confirmation Email after submitting the registration form please call Kathy Douglas at 519-441-0656 to confirm we have received your registration. \nRegister Now:\nEvent Leader Registration\n  \nChild Participant Registration
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/kids-across-the-region-2024/
LOCATION:Camp Bimini\, 3180 Perth Road\, St. Paul’s\, Ontario\, N0K 1V0\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2SLGBTQIA,Affirming,Anti-Racism,Camps & Retreats,Community,Event,Kids and Youth,Learning Opportunity,Regional Council,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/KAR2024Header.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240524
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240527
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240118T172708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240305T014448Z
UID:12774-1716508800-1716767999@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Save the Dates:  Spring 2024 Tri Regional Council Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Spring 2024 Tri-Regional Council Meeting \nREGISTER for the Tri-Regional Council Meeting\nTime will be designated for each individual Regional Council to meet separately. Each Regional Council will be electing their GC45 Commissioners\, President Elect and slate of Executive/Commission members.\nFriday May 24: 2 PM start & Friday evening The Right Rev. Dr. Carmen Lansdowne will speak\nSaturday\, May 25: All day. Includes Celebration of Ministries Service in the afternoon\nSunday\, May 26: 9 AM to Noon: Includes Honouring of Retirees\, Jubilands\, In Memoriam\, Community of Faith Life Cycle Changes
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/save-the-dates-spring-2024-tri-regional-council-meeting/
CATEGORIES:2SLGBTQIA,Affirming,Anti-Racism,Camps & Retreats,Clergy Gathering,Climate Change,Community,Event,Indigenous Justice,Kids and Youth,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Ministry Personnel,Mission Support Grants,Music,Online Gathering,Regional Council,Registration,Social Justice,Speakers,Staff,Stewardship,UCW
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Tri-RCMeeting2024-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240522T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240522T130000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240502T183209Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240502T183209Z
UID:14135-1716382800-1716382800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-human-resources-commission-meeting-9/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240521T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240521T120000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240502T183041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240502T183041Z
UID:14131-1716285600-1716292800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-human-resources-commission-meeting-10/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240514T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240514T090000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240502T182702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240502T182714Z
UID:14125-1715677200-1715677200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-human-resources-commission-meeting-10/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240427T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240427T093000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240306T201139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240306T201139Z
UID:13536-1714210200-1714210200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF UCW Annual General Meeting
DESCRIPTION:HORSESHOE FALLS UCW ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING\nSATURDAY\, APRIL 27\, 2024\nGRACE UNITED CHURCH\n2111 Walkers Line\, Burlington\n“Out of the Kitchen” and into…. \nWorship: – Led by the Rev. Richard Bott\nGuest Presenter: – the Rev. Brenna Baker\nCommunity of Faith Support Staff for Horseshoe Falls\, Western\nOntario Waterways and Antler River Watershed “TELLING THE STORY IN A NEW WAY” \n\nSend cheques made out to Hamilton Conference UCW for payment to: Amy Hill\n12 Neuchatel Place\, Mississauga\, ON L5N 6A7 DEADLINE: April 17\, 2024\nNAME(s):______________________________________ # of Tickets_______\nCHURCH:_______________________________________________________\n9:30 – registration 10:00 – Welcome\nCost – $20 Please bring your own brown bag lunch and a small contribution for\nThe Loaves and Fishes table to share at breaktime – eg. apple\, cookie
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-ucw-annual-general-meeting/
LOCATION:Grace United Church\, 2111 Walkers Line\, Burlington\, L7M 0Z2\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Regional Council,Speakers,UCW
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/HFAGMUCW2024.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240424T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240424T200000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240306T204142Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240306T204240Z
UID:13544-1713985200-1713988800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Duty of Care 101
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/duty-of-care-101-2/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:2SLGBTQIA,Affirming,Anti-Racism,Camps & Retreats,Clergy Gathering,Community,Event,Kids and Youth,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council,Social Justice,Speakers,Staff
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/3.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Kathy Douglas":MAILTO:kdouglas@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240424T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240424T130000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240402T163844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T163844Z
UID:13766-1713963600-1713963600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-human-resources-commission-meeting-8/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240423T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240423T113000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240306T203918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240306T203918Z
UID:13541-1713868200-1713871800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Duty of Care 101
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/duty-of-care-101/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:2SLGBTQIA,Affirming,Anti-Racism,Camps & Retreats,Clergy Gathering,Community,Event,Kids and Youth,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council,Social Justice,Speakers,Staff
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/3.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T203000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240305T211822Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240305T213147Z
UID:13525-1713380400-1713385800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW - Are you vulnerable?
DESCRIPTION:There will be signs (Luke 21:25) \nBefore the pandemic\, many of our communities of faith were beginning to see signs that their finances and volunteer resources were declining.  Now with the impact of the pandemic the signs are everywhere.  Discussions and decisions that were put off as we waited out Covid 19\, are now urgently needed.  These are signs that the way we have always done things is no longer working\, and change is happening\, but there are also signs of hope as we face these challenges together.  What isn’t helpful is simply letting time rob you of the opportunity to explore options and make choices about the future of your congregation and ministry. \nRecognizing the Signs \nIf your community of faith is: \nAnxious about the future of your community of faith? \nIt’s time to explore options \nStruggling to recruit enough volunteers? \nIt’s time to talk about the future. \nExperiencing increasing deficits and declining investments? \nIt’s time to make a plan \nRecognizing signs and making decisions is something we do every day.  Overcast sky; we take an umbrella.  Gas gauge on empty; we head to the gas station.  Toothache; we call the dentist.  We have learned that ignoring the signs can lead to bigger problems later.  And simply hoping we won’t run out of gas\, or the cavity will fix itself is not realistic.  The same is true when congregations see signs that their community of faith has become vulnerable due to a lack of money\, volunteers or both.  While it may be tempting to simply keep going hoping next year will be better\, the reality is that with each passing month there is less time to explore options\, talk about the future and make plans.  And while these may be uncomfortable discussions\, it is even more difficult when a decision is forced upon a community of faith because they have run out of resources and time. \nThere is no denying that acknowledging and responding to the signs is challenging work that takes courage and trust and often leads to change.  But it can be the change you choose rather than the change that will happen if nothing is done. \nHere are some things you need to know and remember: \n1) You are not alone!  God is with us.  We are with one another. \n2) This is not your fault.  This change is the result of social\, demographic\, cultural and other forces beyond the control of any one congregation. \n3) Things will not go back to the way they were. \n4) The problems will not solve themselves. \n5) All of the possible options such as collaboration\, property redevelopment\, amalgamation and disbanding take time to do well.  Waiting until the last moment to make a decision will limit your options. \n6) We are a resurrection people.  We believe that new life will come\, even in the midst of loss. \nYour Congregational Support Commission invites you to make 2024 the year all of our communities of faith ask courageous questions about their situation\, talk to one another\, begin to make plans and choices rather than wait and see\, and ask how together we continue our shared ministries as the United Church of Canada. \nThis year\, \n\nIf your community of faith has an abundance of resources\, ask\, how might we partner with our neighbours so that their ministry continues?\nIf your neighbouring church is closing\, ask how you might pick up some of their ministries so that the good work continues?\nComplete or update your community of faith profile\, and look for signs that it is time to take control and start making plans.\n\nFinances – Signs to Watch For \nHalo Canada conducted a study of approximately 4300 churches in Canada that closed between 2009 and 2018.  Their findings identified several key characteristics of congregations at risk of closing. \nWarning Signs \n\nAn annual deficit for three or more years consecutively\nAnnual expenses running 30% higher than revenue\nCash and long-term investments less than three times the annual deficit\nProperty expenses 30% or more of annual expenses\nStaffing costs greater than 60% of the total expenses.\nTrend of declining income and/or increasing deficit\n\nIf a congregation is experiencing 3 or more of these risk factors\, they are at high risk of closure in the next 3-5 years. \nUse the Financial Viability Worksheet to identify whether these risk factors apply to your community of faith. \nVolunteers – Signs to Watch For \nCommunities of Faith need capable\, willing and available volunteers to carry out the work of being a church.  Members are needed for the governing body\, Board of Trustees and M&P committee and to help organize events\, fundraisers\, and worship.  While it can be useful to have people with experience offer leadership\, it becomes a problem when people feel they cannot “retire” from a position because there is no one available to take over the responsibility.  In some congregations\, a few people are stretched thin trying to ensure everything gets done. \nWarning Signs \n\nVolunteers are being asked to fill more than one position\nVolunteers have held the same position for more than 5 years because there was no one else available\nThe Board of Trustees or M&P Committee do not have the required 3 members\nVolunteers are feeling exhausted\, overwhelmed or resentful\nVery few people are gathering for worship in person or virtually\n\nIf a congregation is experiencing these challenges they are at risk of closure in the near future\, even if they have ample financial resources. \nUse the Demographic Worksheet to identify whether these risk factors apply to your community of faith. \nTaking Charge – Exploring Options \nOnce your community of faith has determined whether they are at risk\, you can now begin to make plans for your future.  Knowing that your resources may be exhausted in a few years\, you can begin to explore options and make choices. \nOptions and Opportunities \n\nReach out to your regional council Congregational Support Minister and the Congregational Support Commission.\nCollaborative Ministry – share resources and ministry personnel with another congregation to reduce expenses\nPurchase complete worship services with recorded sermons to reduce the cost and time required to arrange for pulpit supply each week.\nExplore options to redevelop property or increase rental income\nSell your property and rent space in the community or “nest” with another congregation to share worship and building facilities\nBegin to discuss amalgamation with a neighbour. (a good amalgamation requires time\, at least a year in most cases\, to get to know one another\, create an agreement\, celebrate the past and embrace the future)\nMake plans to disband. To do this well takes time.  Time to celebrate the ministry you have shared\, time to grieve\, time to plan your legacy and time to manage your property and records.\n\n  \nLynne Allin\nMINISTER\, CONGREGATIONAL SUPPORT Horseshoe Falls and Antler River Watershed Regional Councils \n\nYou are Invited to:\nVulnerable Congregations Discussion\nWhile this may feel overwhelming\, remember you are not alone.  The Congregational Support Commission is inviting your Minister\, Chair\, Treasurer and Lay Representative to a discussion session.   Please share this article and the link below.  We look forward to seeing you soon. \nLynne Allin (she/her) is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. \nTopic: Vulnerable Congregations Discussion \n\nHorseshoe Falls Regional Council March 21st\, 2024\, 7 – 8:30pm   \nhttps://united-church.zoom.us/j/87178139356  Meeting ID: 871 7813 9356 \nJoin by Phone:   1-855-703-8985 Canada Toll-free \n\nAntler River Watershed Regional Council April 17th\, 2024\, 7 – 8:30pm \nhttps://united-church.zoom.us/j/88944207737 Meeting ID: 889 4420 7737 \nJoin by Phone:   1-855-703-8985 Canada Toll-free
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/are-you-vulnerable/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council,Staff
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/robert-ruggiero-X2bcQMMhaow-unsplash-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Lynne Allin":MAILTO:LAllin@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240416T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240416T120000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240402T163219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T163219Z
UID:13760-1713261600-1713268800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-human-resources-commission-meeting-9/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240409T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240409T090000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240402T162650Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T162650Z
UID:13752-1712653200-1712653200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-human-resources-commission-meeting-9/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240327T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240327T130000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240229T214500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240229T214500Z
UID:13442-1711544400-1711544400@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-human-resources-commission-meeting-7/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240321T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240321T203000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240305T212535Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240305T213242Z
UID:13527-1711047600-1711053000@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF - Are you vulnerable?
DESCRIPTION:There will be signs (Luke 21:25) \nBefore the pandemic\, many of our communities of faith were beginning to see signs that their finances and volunteer resources were declining.  Now with the impact of the pandemic the signs are everywhere.  Discussions and decisions that were put off as we waited out Covid 19\, are now urgently needed.  These are signs that the way we have always done things is no longer working\, and change is happening\, but there are also signs of hope as we face these challenges together.  What isn’t helpful is simply letting time rob you of the opportunity to explore options and make choices about the future of your congregation and ministry. \nRecognizing the Signs \nIf your community of faith is: \nAnxious about the future of your community of faith? \nIt’s time to explore options \nStruggling to recruit enough volunteers? \nIt’s time to talk about the future. \nExperiencing increasing deficits and declining investments? \nIt’s time to make a plan \nRecognizing signs and making decisions is something we do every day.  Overcast sky; we take an umbrella.  Gas gauge on empty; we head to the gas station.  Toothache; we call the dentist.  We have learned that ignoring the signs can lead to bigger problems later.  And simply hoping we won’t run out of gas\, or the cavity will fix itself is not realistic.  The same is true when congregations see signs that their community of faith has become vulnerable due to a lack of money\, volunteers or both.  While it may be tempting to simply keep going hoping next year will be better\, the reality is that with each passing month there is less time to explore options\, talk about the future and make plans.  And while these may be uncomfortable discussions\, it is even more difficult when a decision is forced upon a community of faith because they have run out of resources and time. \nThere is no denying that acknowledging and responding to the signs is challenging work that takes courage and trust and often leads to change.  But it can be the change you choose rather than the change that will happen if nothing is done. \nHere are some things you need to know and remember: \n1) You are not alone!  God is with us.  We are with one another. \n2) This is not your fault.  This change is the result of social\, demographic\, cultural and other forces beyond the control of any one congregation. \n3) Things will not go back to the way they were. \n4) The problems will not solve themselves. \n5) All of the possible options such as collaboration\, property redevelopment\, amalgamation and disbanding take time to do well.  Waiting until the last moment to make a decision will limit your options. \n6) We are a resurrection people.  We believe that new life will come\, even in the midst of loss. \nYour Congregational Support Commission invites you to make 2024 the year all of our communities of faith ask courageous questions about their situation\, talk to one another\, begin to make plans and choices rather than wait and see\, and ask how together we continue our shared ministries as the United Church of Canada. \nThis year\, \n\nIf your community of faith has an abundance of resources\, ask\, how might we partner with our neighbours so that their ministry continues?\nIf your neighbouring church is closing\, ask how you might pick up some of their ministries so that the good work continues?\nComplete or update your community of faith profile\, and look for signs that it is time to take control and start making plans.\n\nFinances – Signs to Watch For \nHalo Canada conducted a study of approximately 4300 churches in Canada that closed between 2009 and 2018.  Their findings identified several key characteristics of congregations at risk of closing. \nWarning Signs \n\nAn annual deficit for three or more years consecutively\nAnnual expenses running 30% higher than revenue\nCash and long-term investments less than three times the annual deficit\nProperty expenses 30% or more of annual expenses\nStaffing costs greater than 60% of the total expenses.\nTrend of declining income and/or increasing deficit\n\nIf a congregation is experiencing 3 or more of these risk factors\, they are at high risk of closure in the next 3-5 years. \nUse the Financial Viability Worksheet to identify whether these risk factors apply to your community of faith. \nVolunteers – Signs to Watch For \nCommunities of Faith need capable\, willing and available volunteers to carry out the work of being a church.  Members are needed for the governing body\, Board of Trustees and M&P committee and to help organize events\, fundraisers\, and worship.  While it can be useful to have people with experience offer leadership\, it becomes a problem when people feel they cannot “retire” from a position because there is no one available to take over the responsibility.  In some congregations\, a few people are stretched thin trying to ensure everything gets done. \nWarning Signs \n\nVolunteers are being asked to fill more than one position\nVolunteers have held the same position for more than 5 years because there was no one else available\nThe Board of Trustees or M&P Committee do not have the required 3 members\nVolunteers are feeling exhausted\, overwhelmed or resentful\nVery few people are gathering for worship in person or virtually\n\nIf a congregation is experiencing these challenges they are at risk of closure in the near future\, even if they have ample financial resources. \nUse the Demographic Worksheet to identify whether these risk factors apply to your community of faith. \nTaking Charge – Exploring Options \nOnce your community of faith has determined whether they are at risk\, you can now begin to make plans for your future.  Knowing that your resources may be exhausted in a few years\, you can begin to explore options and make choices. \nOptions and Opportunities \n\nReach out to your regional council Congregational Support Minister and the Congregational Support Commission.\nCollaborative Ministry – share resources and ministry personnel with another congregation to reduce expenses\nPurchase complete worship services with recorded sermons to reduce the cost and time required to arrange for pulpit supply each week.\nExplore options to redevelop property or increase rental income\nSell your property and rent space in the community or “nest” with another congregation to share worship and building facilities\nBegin to discuss amalgamation with a neighbour. (a good amalgamation requires time\, at least a year in most cases\, to get to know one another\, create an agreement\, celebrate the past and embrace the future)\nMake plans to disband. To do this well takes time.  Time to celebrate the ministry you have shared\, time to grieve\, time to plan your legacy and time to manage your property and records.\n\n  \nLynne Allin\nMINISTER\, CONGREGATIONAL SUPPORT Horseshoe Falls and Antler River Watershed Regional Councils \n\nYou are Invited to:\nVulnerable Congregations Discussion\nWhile this may feel overwhelming\, remember you are not alone.  The Congregational Support Commission is inviting your Minister\, Chair\, Treasurer and Lay Representative to a discussion session.   Please share this article and the link below.  We look forward to seeing you soon. \nLynne Allin (she/her) is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. \nTopic: Vulnerable Congregations Discussion \n\nHorseshoe Falls Regional Council March 21st\, 2024\, 7 – 8:30pm   \nhttps://united-church.zoom.us/j/87178139356  Meeting ID: 871 7813 9356 \nJoin by Phone:   1-855-703-8985 Canada Toll-free \n\nAntler River Watershed Regional Council April 17th\, 2024\, 7 – 8:30pm \nhttps://united-church.zoom.us/j/88944207737 Meeting ID: 889 4420 7737 \nJoin by Phone:   1-855-703-8985 Canada Toll-free
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-are-you-vulnerable/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council,Staff
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/robert-ruggiero-X2bcQMMhaow-unsplash-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Lynne Allin":MAILTO:LAllin@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240319T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240319T120000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240229T211537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240229T211537Z
UID:13432-1710842400-1710849600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-human-resources-commission-meeting-8/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240312T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240312T090000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240229T210734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240229T210734Z
UID:13424-1710234000-1710234000@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-human-resources-commission-meeting-8/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240304T184500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240304T200000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240201T201227Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240201T201430Z
UID:13081-1709577900-1709582400@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Music Ministry Gathering
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/music-ministry-gathering/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Ministry Personnel,Music,Online Gathering,Regional Council,Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Music-Ministry-Gathering-March-2024-Music-Ministry-Survey-Results.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240228T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240228T130000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240117T210505Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240117T210505Z
UID:12743-1709125200-1709125200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-human-resources-commission-meeting-6/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240220T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240220T190000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240130T155051Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240130T155051Z
UID:13044-1708455600-1708455600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Good News: How to Share the Impact of your Ministry
DESCRIPTION:Good News: How to Share the Impact of your Ministry \n\nLearn how to inspire current and potential donors with the story of your ministry\, project or outreach initiative\nHear how to tell your story when reporting to grant organizations or applying for a grant\nInspire other communities of faith as we share the good news of God at work in our regions\n\nSession will include examples of inspiring stories from right here in our regions as well as time for discussion and Q&A. \nRegister here: https://united-church.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMpfuyhqTgsEtJu7zpRbldzViJPzpRPXqvz#/registration \nThe session will be recorded and posted to region websites.
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/good-news-how-to-share-the-impact-of-your-ministry/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Mission Support Grants,Online Gathering,Regional Council,Speakers,Stewardship
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/GoodNewsv2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240220T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240220T120000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240117T210300Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240117T210300Z
UID:12739-1708423200-1708430400@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-human-resources-commission-meeting-7/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240213T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240213T113000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240123T172937Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240123T172937Z
UID:12833-1707818400-1707823800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Retired Clergy Online Gathering
DESCRIPTION:On behalf of Horseshoe Falls Regional Council\, the Human Resources Commission has been seeking to redress a lack of connection between the regional council and retirees since the dissolution of presbyteries. This has included creating a contact list of retirees in our region and finding a connection point in the structure. Happily\, the Human Resources Commission has included relating to retirees as part of its mandate and our Minister for Pastoral Support\, the Rev. Kevin Steeper\, will also serve as a resource in this effort.Our next step is to host a regional council wide online gathering: \n\nto connect with one another\,\nto explore how we all might best relate to one another;\nto listen to the ideas you may have for gatherings in smaller groupings and how the region might best support you.\n\nThere will be an opportunity for you to gather in geographic groupings to self-organize.From an earlier email to many of you\, we received a suggestion that we might invite a national staff person to join us at a gathering once a year to hear about the wider church and to answer questions you may have. General Secretary\, the Rev. Dr. Michael Blair\, has graciously agreed to be with us for part of our meeting to do just that.Save the Date!Join us on February 13\, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. online. Watch for the meeting link to come after the new year.We recognize that not everyone has online access. If you know of a colleague who would appreciate being present\, perhaps you could invite them to join  you.
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-retired-clergy-online-gathering/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Clergy Gathering,Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Ministry Personnel,Online Gathering,Regional Council,Speakers
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240213T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240213T090000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240117T205846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240117T205846Z
UID:12733-1707814800-1707814800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-human-resources-commission-meeting-7/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Online Gathering,Regional Council
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240124T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240124T130000
DTSTAMP:20260419T142810
CREATED:20240116T203509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240116T203509Z
UID:12679-1706101200-1706101200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Human Resources Commission Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-human-resources-commission-meeting-5/
CATEGORIES:Meeting,Regional Council
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END:VCALENDAR