A Place at the Table: Deborah Richards

“The role that the church plays in the Canadian tapestry is one of getting people to be advocates for change, for justice, and for ensuring people who are marginalized have a place in our society.”

Deborah Richards’ journey through The United Church of Canada has been shaped by a commitment to authentic representation and an unwavering belief in the power of diverse voices coming together.

Born in Trinidad, Deborah has made it her mission since arriving in Canada to ensure the church remains a welcoming space for all. “Being a part of the church and living out my faith is actually about service,” she explains. Her leadership in both local and national church roles has centered around fostering inclusivity—ensuring that the church remains a place where anyone, regardless of background, can find belonging. “It’s about how you can be in a community with others and still remain who you are,” she says.

For Deborah, “A Place at the Table” perfectly embodies the spiritual community that runs through the church. “I sense connection, which wasn’t there before... and I see that as something I want people to take away from being in the United Church," she says.

Being a disciple means the church’s call to action extends far beyond the walls of any building. “What am I, as a disciple, going to be doing when I go out into the world? What am I continuing to do to be able to show and to witness to God and His love for all of us?”

Deborah envisions a church that continues to evolve, where its role in society is not tied to traditional structures, but rather to the communities it serves. “We may find that our communities of faith might be smaller... but I think if the church is able to reorganize itself and serve the wider community, maybe not necessarily in the buildings that we have had before, I think it’s going to continue to serve us well.”

For Deborah, a place at the table means being heard and valued. "I am able to be who I am at that table, and for my voice to be heard," she affirms. Deborah remains hopeful that the church will continue to thrive by evolving and remaining true to its roots in love and community.

Deborah smiling widely, wearing glasses, with a short sleeve navy top

Deborah Richards’ roots trace back to the West Indies—born in Trinidad to Antiguan parents, she grew up in Jamaica. She immigrated to Canada as a young adult, settling in Surrey, BC, through a high school friend’s connection. Now in an educational leadership role at the Justice Institute of British Columbia, she remains active in her community through Toastmasters and Rotary. Deborah has served as chair of the Ministry Board (2010-2017) and is currently as a trustee at Northwood United Church in Surrey, BC. She also served on the General Council Executive from 2018 –2022, and as President of Pacific Mountain Regional Council from 2022 – 2024. She is currently one of the Co-Chairs of the Western Intercultural Ministry Network. Inspired by John A. Shedd’s quote, “A ship in a harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are built for,” Deborah embraces new challenges, valuing adventure, connection, and personal growth.