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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240425T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240425T140000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T164011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T164011Z
UID:13770-1714053600-1714053600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Discipleship and Justice Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-discipleship-and-justice-meeting-3/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240424T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240424T200000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
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/New_York:20240424T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240424T160000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T163926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T170821Z
UID:13768-1713974400-1713974400@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Regional Council Executive Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-regional-council-executive-meeting-6/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240424T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240424T130000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
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:20240423T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240423T190000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T163738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T163738Z
UID:13764-1713898800-1713898800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Discipleship and Justice Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-discipleship-and-justice-meeting-5/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240423T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240423T113000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
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:20240422T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240422T173000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240222T191225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240222T191330Z
UID:13269-1713801600-1713807000@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Follow Up - Advance Care and Planning Workshop - End of Life Conversations
DESCRIPTION:Mon. March 25th from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 1st Advance Care Planning (end-of-life conversations) Workshop\nMon. April 8th 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 1st Grief & Bereavement Workshop\nMon. April 22nd 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 2nd (follow-up) Advance Care Planning Workshop\nMon. May 6th 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 2nd (follow-up) Grief & Bereavement WorkshopIn conversation with Compassionate Ottawa\n\nFor more details contact Kathy Douglas\, Minister Faith Formation KDouglas@United-Church.ca \nRegistration now open: \nhttps://united-church.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtcO2spjIvG90XLU8UKGjp0xjR5BUO0IvQ
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/follow-up-advance-care-and-planning-workshop-end-of-life-conversations/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event,Learning Opportunity,Online Gathering,Social Justice,Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/March-25-Workshop-United-Churches-of-Canada-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Kathy Douglas":MAILTO:kdouglas@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240420T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240420T150000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240326T190448Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240326T190448Z
UID:13715-1713605400-1713625200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW UCW AGM 2024
DESCRIPTION:Annual General Meeting of the UCW of Western Ontario Region on Saturday\, April 20 in Hanover. \nTime: 9:30am – 3:00pm \nWhere: Grace United Church 310 – 12th Street\, Hanover\, ON \nThis will be an in-person and virtual meeting.  We are hoping to have representation from every local UCW in our region for this important meeting.  We will review the past year\, and consider our future.  If you attend virtually\, please note that you will have to click on one link for the morning session and on. The second one for the afternoon session. Only members attending in-person will be able to vote during the business meeting in the morning. \nTo ensure that there is sufficient food for all\, we ask you to pre-register for lunch at noon either by email to: ucw.wow@gmail.com or by telephone by Tuesday\, April 2.  You can pay when you register. \nWe will send out the Annual Report by email within two weeks of the meeting. Please read it carefully before you come to the meeting if you can.  We look forward to seeing you all. \nSincerely\,\nANNE REUBER\nPresident of UCW of Western Ontario Region
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-ucw-agm-2024/
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,UCW
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/UCWWOWAGM2024.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240418T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240418T203000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240405T162353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240405T162353Z
UID:13799-1713466800-1713472200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Are You a Vulnerable Community of Faith?
DESCRIPTION:Before the pandemic\, many of our Communities of Faith were beginning to see signs that their finances and volunteer resources were declining. 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. \nThese 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 . . . if your community of faith is . . . \n\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!\n\n\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. \nThe 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. \n\n\nIt can be the change you choose\, rather than the change that will happen\, if nothing is done. \nThere is no denying that acknowledging and responding to the signs is challenging work that takes courage and trust and often leads to change. \n\nUseful things to know and remember: \n\nYou are not alone! God is with us. We are with one another.\nThis is not your fault. This change is the result of social\, demographic\, cultural and other forces beyond the control of any one congregation.\nThings will not go back to the way they were.\nThe problems will not solve themselves.\nAll 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.\nWe are a resurrection people. We believe that new life will come\, even in the midst of loss.\n\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.\n\nIf your community of faith has an abundance of resources\, ask\, “How might we partner with our neighbours so that their ministry also 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\n\nFinances – Signs to Watch For \nHalo Canada conducted a study of approximately 4\,300 churches in Canada that closed between 2009 and 2018. Their findings identified several key characteristics of congregations at risk of closing. \n\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\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. \n(Halo Effect is a measure of the socio-economic benefit that a religious congregation contributes to its local community. Halo Effect is expressed as a multiplier. Based on the most recent research\, for every dollar that a congregation spends\, the local community on average receives $3.39 in economic benefit.) \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\, the 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. \n\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.Taking 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. \n\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\nWhile this may feel overwhelming\, remember you are not alone. The Congregational Support Commission is inviting you\, your Minister\, Chair\, Treasurer and Lay Representative(s) to a discussion session. Please share this article and the Zoom link. We look forward to seeing you soon!\nThursday April 18\, 2024 from 7:00 – 8:30 PM\nJoin by link: Join Zoom Meeting\nMeeting ID: 813 0230 9957\nJoin by phone: 855 703 8985
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-are-you-a-vulnerable-community-of-faith/
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/robert-ruggiero-X2bcQMMhaow-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240418T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240418T150000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240226T201456Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T163546Z
UID:13303-1713448800-1713452400@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Online Clergy Gathering
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-online-clergy-gathering-5/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Clergy Gathering,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering
ORGANIZER;CN="Kevin Steeper":MAILTO:mailto:KSteeper@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240418T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240418T113000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T162532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T162532Z
UID:13750-1713432600-1713439800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Regional Council Staff Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/regional-council-staff-meeting-49/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event,Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T203000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
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/New_York:20240417T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T160000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240226T201357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T163509Z
UID:13301-1713366000-1713369600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Online Clergy Gathering
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-online-clergy-gathering-4/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Clergy Gathering,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering
ORGANIZER;CN="Kevin Steeper":MAILTO:mailto:KSteeper@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T093000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T163434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T163434Z
UID:13762-1713346200-1713346200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Regional Council Executive Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-regional-council-executive-meeting-7/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240416T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240416T200000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240405T162517Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240405T162517Z
UID:13801-1713294000-1713297600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Pastoral Charge Supervisors
DESCRIPTION:WOW Pastoral Charge Supervisors \nAs a valued member of our pastoral charge supervisor team\, we appreciate your ongoing commitment and dedication to the regional council work. Your role as a Pastoral Charge Supervisor is vital in ensuring the spiritual well-being of congregations. \nWhy Continue Serving as a Pastoral Charge Supervisor? \n\nMake a lasting impact on communities of faith who are without ministry personnel\nCollaborate with fellow supervisors to nurture congregations\nContribute to the spiritual growth of members\n\nWe invite you to gather and share your insights\, wisdom\, and experiences. Join and support other PCSs. Your leadership is invaluable. \nTuesday April 16\, 2024\, 7:00 – 8:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-pastoral-charge-supervisors/
CATEGORIES:Community,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240416T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240416T150000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240226T201253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240226T201253Z
UID:13298-1713276000-1713279600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Online Clergy Gathering
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-online-clergy-gathering-5/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Clergy Gathering,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/April-2024.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Kevin Steeper":MAILTO:mailto:KSteeper@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240416T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240416T120000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
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/New_York:20240411T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240411T130000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T163042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T163042Z
UID:13758-1712840400-1712840400@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Congregational Support Commission
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-congregational-support-commission-9/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240410T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240410T100000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T162824Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T162824Z
UID:13756-1712743200-1712743200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Regional Council Executive Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-regional-council-executive-meeting-7/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240409T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240409T190000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T162741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T162741Z
UID:13754-1712689200-1712689200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Congregational Support Commission
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-congregational-support-commission-9/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240409T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240409T090000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
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/New_York:20240408T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240408T173000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240228T172359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240228T174224Z
UID:13392-1712592000-1712597400@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Grief and Bereavement Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Mon. March 25th from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 1st Advance Care Planning (end-of-life conversations) Workshop\nMon. April 8th 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 1st Grief & Bereavement Workshop\nMon. April 22nd 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 2nd (follow-up) Advance Care Planning Workshop\nMon. May 6th 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 2nd (follow-up) Grief & Bereavement WorkshopIn conversation with Compassionate Ottawa\n\nFor more details contact Kathy Douglas\, Minister Faith Formation KDouglas@United-Church.ca \nRegistration now open: \nhttps://united-church.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYof-GppjguGdwdT2xn0g3AZD4oovY_xBmY
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/grief-bereavement-workshop/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event,Learning Opportunity,Online Gathering,Social Justice,Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/April-8-Grief-and-Bereavement-Workshop-United-Churches-of-Canada-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Kathy Douglas":MAILTO:kdouglas@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240404T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240404T113000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T162501Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T162501Z
UID:13748-1712223000-1712230200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Regional Council Staff Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/regional-council-staff-meeting-48/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event,Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240403T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240403T110000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240402T162421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240402T171042Z
UID:13746-1712134800-1712142000@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:ARW Congregational Support Commission
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/arw-congregational-support-commission-2/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240327T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240327T160000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240229T214545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240311T191944Z
UID:13444-1711555200-1711555200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:HF Regional Council Executive Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/hf-regional-council-executive-meeting-5/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240327T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240327T130000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
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:20240326T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240326T190000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240229T214356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240229T214356Z
UID:13438-1711479600-1711479600@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Discipleship and Justice Meeting
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-discipleship-and-justice-meeting-4/
CATEGORIES:Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240325T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240325T173000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240222T191038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240222T191856Z
UID:13263-1711382400-1711387800@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:Advance Care and Planning Workshop - End of Life Conversations
DESCRIPTION:Mon. March 25th from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 1st Advance Care Planning (end-of-life conversations) Workshop\nMon. April 8th 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 1st Grief & Bereavement Workshop\nMon. April 22nd 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 2nd (follow-up) Advance Care Planning Workshop\nMon. May 6th 2024 from 4:00pm-5:30pm – 2nd (follow-up) Grief & Bereavement WorkshopIn conversation with Compassionate Ottawa\n\nFor more details contact Kathy Douglas\, Minister Faith Formation KDouglas@United-Church.ca \nRegistration now open: \nhttps://united-church.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtcO2spjIvG90XLU8UKGjp0xjR5BUO0IvQ
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/advance-care-and-planning-workshop-end-of-life-conversations/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event,Learning Opportunity,Online Gathering,Social Justice,Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://arwrcucc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/March-25-Workshop-United-Churches-of-Canada-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240321T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240321T203000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
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/New_York:20240321T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240321T150000
DTSTAMP:20260419T221743
CREATED:20240226T195715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240226T195715Z
UID:13295-1711029600-1711033200@arwrcucc.ca
SUMMARY:WOW Online Clergy Gathering
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://arwrcucc.ca/event/wow-online-clergy-gathering-4/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom
CATEGORIES:Clergy Gathering,Event,Learning Opportunity,Meeting,Online Gathering
ORGANIZER;CN="Kevin Steeper":MAILTO:mailto:KSteeper@united-church.ca
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR