To create a sense of community while we gather across the country, the GC44 Local Arrangements Committee has created a Welcome Kit that is available digitally. All you need to do is add your favourite candle. Download the pieces below that you want to incorporate as you join us for worship, learning, discernment and decision making.
Welcome from Moderator Richard Bott
Grace and peace to you, in Jesus’ name!
As plans come together for GC44, I am becoming more and more excited. This is going to be a different experience than any other General Council. While we will be coming together in a virtual space, the learning that we do, the discussions that we will have, the decisions that we will make – and the relationships that we will build – will be very real.
The GC44 Planning Committee has been working on ways to help us in the tasks we have before us, including the exploration of Jesus’ question to the disciples that makes up our theme for this GC, “Who do you say I am?”
General Council 44 is a meeting that will span almost six months – from the opening words on February 13, 2022, until the service of worship to install the new Moderator, on August 7, 2022. Over that time there will be Learning and Listening Sessions, Discussion Sessions, and Decision Sessions; times for social connection, and times for song, prayer, and worship together.
This Welcome Package comes to you, with hope that you will use what is in it not only in the times we meet, but in the times in-between – to help you remember and celebrate the role that you have taken on in this General Council gathering. You might want to set up a prayer space in your home or office, and light a candle as you pray for your fellow decision-makers, or as you discern your questions or thoughts about a specific topic.
Attached below you will find:
- A Prayer Card – as part of our virtual prayer room keep this card on hand for a spiritual practice to use during and between meetings.
- A placemat – to add focus to the space you use, and with prompts for notes, prayers, and doodling.
- Information from “Then Let Us Sing!” as we plan for a new worship resource to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of The United Church of Canada in 2025.
All of us who are a part of planning this General Council are excited about your presence in this important work. Thank you for being a part of it.
Christ’s peace,
Richard Bott
Moderator