It Only Takes a Spark! Your Christmas Impact

Head shot of Sarah Charters wearing a black turtleneck and royal blue jacket, against a grey backdrop

Sarah Charters, Executive Officer of Philanthropy

In a world so in need of healing, it is vital to know that God is with us. That the Spirit pours out upon us. That there will be dreamers, and that visions will come to the youth. Visions like the ones we heard at General Council 45 from our youth delegates.

Ben Ryan (Quebec) said: “My vision is one where we place the needs of the vulnerable before our own and put our money where our mouths are. It’s one where we look to serve our neighbours who need our help. What use is money when we never spend it?”

Madi Naude (Alberta) said: “I want the church to care about the world and the people outside of its walls; to be a part of real change, and to not just talk about it.”

Matthew Tyhurst (Ontario) said: “I dream of a church that is more than just buildings. I dream of a church that is committed to the work that we do, bold enough to adapt, and mindful of the plan God has for each of us.”

These are our youth, our future for The United Church of Canada. They are sharing their visions, and we need to listen. To catch the spark of those visions and share the light with the world. This impact report offers you stories of work in Canada and globally that is made possible through our Mission and Service. We hope these stories, and the many others you can read on our website, will be the spark that inspires you to give and be part of these visions for the future church.

In Christ,

Sarah Charters

Young children play at the Fairview Resource Centre

From Sleepless Nights to Shared Strength

Becoming a new parent can be overwhelming, with the constant demands of caring for a newborn, sleepless nights, and the pressure to make the right choices for your child. Every parent knows that sometimes you need some help. Your gifts allow Mission and Service to give that help.

Together in Prayer and Solidarity

Through Mission and Service, the United Church accompanies global partners bringing compassion and courage to some of the world’s most difficult places. We hold in prayer our partners in Gaza, where the situation remains catastrophic. Your Mission and Service gifts provide hope in desperate situations.