1. law, govt and politics
2. government
3. parliament

Welcome to the Agenda Book
for the 84th Meeting of Alberta and Northwest Conference!
The Treasure Within and Among Us
Alberta and Northwest Conference
th
84 Conference Meeting
May 28-31, 2015
Slave Lake, Alberta
This book contains background information to help you prepare for the Conference Meeting. In it
you will find Proposals that will come before the Court, as well as Accountability Reports from
Conference Officers, Committees, Presbyteries, and related organizations.
There will be a packet of information distributed when you arrive at the Registration Table. This
second packet will contain more information, Proposals and Reports that were not available
when this book was completed.
AGENDA BOOK FORMAT
Section A:
This Section contains information about the Conference Office and
Staff, biographical information about special guests, information related
to the process for considering the business of the Conference Meeting,
nomination forms, and Memorials.
Section B:
This Section contains Proposals to Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Section C:
This Section contains Proposals to the 42nd General Council.
Section D:
This Section contains Accountability Reports from the President, the
Executive Secretary, the Committees of the Conference, the
Presbyteries, and the Institutions and related organizations that serve
this Conference.
1
SECTION A
Information about the Conference Meeting
Information about the Conference Office
Introducing our General Council Guest
Proposed Meeting Agenda
Rules of Business
Business Process 2015
Submitting a Proposal
Proposal Format
Response Form
Motion Form
Role of the Conference President - Policy
Nomination Form: Conference President
Nomination Form: President-Elect
Nomination Form: Order of Ministry Representative to the General Council Executive
Election of Commissioners to General Council - Policy
Nomination Form: Commissioner to General Council
Candidates for Order of Ministry and Retirees
Memorials
2
ALBERTA AND NORTHWEST CONFERENCE OFFICE
9911 48 Avenue NW Edmonton, Alberta T6E 5V6
Main Switchboard: 780-435-3995 Fax: 780-438-3317
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Conference Office Staff
E-Mail
Lynn Maki, Executive Secretary
[email protected]
224
Earl Reaburn, Personnel Administration Coordinator
[email protected]
227
Kathy Jackson, Office Coordinator
[email protected]
223
Melanie Funk, Administrative Assistant: Personnel
[email protected]
222
Ann Thomas, Accountant
[email protected]
226
Conference Archivist:
Ext.
Jane Bowe-McCarthy
Telephone:
780-427-8687
Fax: 780-427-4646
E-Mail:
[email protected]
Address:
8555 Roper Road NW, Edmonton, Alberta T6E 5W1
Introducing our General Council Guest …
Erik Mathiesen
Chief Financial Officer
The United Church of Canada
Erik Mathiesen is the Chief Financial Officer for the national arm of The United Church of
Canada. In this capacity, Erik supports the work of almost 3000 Congregations across Canada,
and works with many volunteers to maintain a large pension plan, national operating and grant
budgets, and significant investment holdings.
Prior to his move to the non-profit sector in 2008, he worked in the financial services industry for
over 25 years where he specialized in operations management and business reengineering.
Erik has been active in the non-profit sector for over 30 years, particularly in the area of
affordable housing. He is currently President of the Atkinson Community Foundation, Treasurer
of the Rosedale-Moore Park Community Association (Mooredale), and also serves on
committees with Woodgreen Community Services, the Toronto Christian Resource Centre, and
his home Congregation of Rosedale United Church, Toronto.
Erik holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Toronto. Erik and Laurie have
two adult children.
3
Alberta and Northwest Conference 84th Meeting – May 28 - 31, 2015
Proposed Agenda
Thursday, May 28
9:00
11:00
Orientation to
DOTS for Business
Committee and
leaders in the
Plenary Hall
Committee Chairs
Budget Meeting at
St. Peter’s
Ecumenical
Church
508 - 7 Street SE
11:00
Stewards’
Orientation in the
Plenary Hall
11:00
Registration
Opens
1:30
Friday, May 29
Saturday, May 30
8:30
Worship led by
Children at
Conference
8:30
Worship led by
Youth at
Conference
9:00
Greetings from
Slave Lake
9:00
Order Paper #2
Business
9:05
Living into Right
Relations
10:30
Election: Ordered
Rep. to GCE
9:20
Business
11:00
Budget
12:00
Nominations
Close: President
and PresidentElect
12:00
Nominations
Close: GC
Commissioners
12:00
Lunch
12:00
Lunch
Welcome to
Conference
Constitution of
Meeting
Theme Worship
Community Building
1:00
Workshops
1:00
Workshops
2:45
Music
2:45
Music
3:00
Election: President
3:00
DOTS Orientation
Order Paper #1
3:35
Election: GC
Commissioners
Pastoral
Relationships
Intercultural
Ministry
Naramata Centre
2:50
MIT Evaluation
3:45
3:30
Comprehensive
Review
4:30
5:00
Election:
President-Elect
5:00
Nominations
Close: Ordered
GCE Rep.
6:00
Table Group Closure
Courtesies
Displays Close
5:30
Supper
5:15
Supper
6:30
Celebration of
Ministry Banquet
and Program
7:00
Student Bursary
Fund Society
7:00
8:30
All Ages Dance at
Slave Lake Inn
7:15
Education &
Students
CGIT Vesper
Service marking
100 years of
CGIT
8:00
8:15
Adjourn for the day
Optional Activities:
Labyrinth
Walking Tour
Drum Circle
Presbytery
Meetings
4
Sunday, May 31
9:00
Celebration of
Ministry
Preparation
10:00
Celebration of
Ministry Service
12:00
Reception
1:00
Orientation for
General Council
Commissioners
at St. Peter’s
Ecumenical
Church 508 - 7
Street SE
Safe journey
home!
RULES OF BUSINESS
Detailed Rules of Debate and Order are found in the Appendix to The Manual of The United
Church of Canada (2013). In situations not covered there, Bourinot’s Rules of Orders will apply.
Routine items of business will be presented on Order Papers, which will be circulated prior to
being presented. Once moved and seconded, Order Papers become Motions of Conference.
Any item on an Order Paper can be discussed separately on the request of two (2) Delegates.
Proposals to General Council which do not receive the concurrence of the Conference Meeting
will not be transmitted unless the Conference passes a motion to transmit without concurrence.
The Bar of Conference will be the designated area of the CNRL Soccer Field, Multi-Recreational
Centre, Slave Lake, Alberta.
The Quorum of Conference shall be twenty percent (20%) of the registered Delegates; of which
one third (1/3) must be members of the Order of Ministry, and one third (1/3) must be Lay
Delegates; representing at least two (2) Presbyteries.
Times specified on the Agenda, including approved revisions, are “Orders of the Day” and have
priority over other business unless changed by a Motion carried by a two-thirds (2/3) majority.
All motions and amendments must be submitted in writing to the Business Committee as soon
as possible, preferably before they are presented at a microphone. Forms are printed in the
Agenda Book, and additional copies are available from the Business Committee.
All materials to be circulated to Delegates must be cleared through the Business Committee.
The Stewards are responsible for distributing all materials within the Bar of Conference.
People leaving the meeting before its conclusion must report to the Business Committee.
Nominations for the President (2015-2017 term) and Nominations for the President-Elect (20152017 term) must be in the hands of the Executive Secretary by 12:00 Noon, Friday, May 29.
Nominations for Ordered Representative to General Council Executive, including the nominee’s
consent and biography, must be in the hands of the Executive Secretary by 5:00 p.m., Friday,
May 29. Nominations for Commissioners to General Council, including the nominee’s consent
and biography, must be in the hands of the Executive Secretary by 12:00 Noon, Saturday, May
30. Nomination forms are included in the Agenda Book, and additional copies are available from
the Business Committee.
Definitions
Rules of
Conduct
Members of the Court are expected to conduct themselves with dignity,
fairness and understanding. The prime concern is the good order and welfare
of the Church.
Court
The Delegates to Conference who are present and eligible to vote
Bar of
Conference
The physical boundaries within which the business of the Conference will be
conducted. Delegates must be within this area to vote.
Voting
Members
Only Delegates appointed according to the requirements of The Manual are
entitled to vote.
5
Corresponding
Members
Those who are not duly appointed voting Delegates are entitled to speak to
the Court if they have been named as Corresponding Members by a motion of
the Court.
Plenary
Time on the agenda where all the members of Conference meet together.
Debate
Formal discussion of motions, using Parliamentary Procedure.
“Question”
Members of the Court sometimes call for the “question” when they feel the
debate has gone on long enough. The President may or may not respond to
this. The proper procedure is to move for an immediate vote.
Voting
Voting is normally by show of hands. Voting by standing or by secret ballot
may be requested by the President or by motion. (For example, if a vote by
show of hands is not clear, a standing vote may be used to assist in tallying
the count; but Delegates must vote the same way they did by show of hands.)
Any delegate may request to have their vote or abstention recorded. In the
event of a tie, the President shall cast the deciding vote. Secret ballots must
be used for any votes regarding membership in the Order of Ministry, unless
waived by a motion with unanimous assent (The Manual, Section 035).
Point of Order
Raises the question of possible procedural errors. If a speaker has the floor,
the Point of Order has priority until the President has ruled on the matter.
Rulings may be appealed to the Parliamentarian.
Question of
Privilege
Raises the question of infringement on the rights of the Conference as a whole
or an individual (e.g., remarks that are misleading or defamatory). If a speaker
has the floor, the Question of Privilege has priority until the President has ruled
on the matter and taken any appropriate action.
Appeal of
Ruling
Any member of the Court may appeal a ruling of the President, but only at the
time when the ruling is made. When an appeal is made, the President should
state the point at issue, and may offer reasons for the ruling. The Executive
Secretary shall ask the Court, “Is the ruling of the President sustained?” If the
vote is a tie the ruling is sustained. The Executive Secretary will declare the
result.
Order Paper
Housekeeping and routine items of business, including disposition of
Proposals that have been shown to have a high degree of support or lack of
support may be included on an Order Paper. When a vote on an Order Paper
is carried, all items on the Order Paper are passed. Specific items may be
lifted from the Order Paper before a vote is taken, on a request by two
Delegates. Discussion and voting on the items lifted from the Order Paper
would then take place separately.
6
Order of the
Day
A specified time on the Agenda. Changing an Order of the Day requires a
motion carried with a 2/3 majority.
To Separate
(Seriatim)
When a motion has two or more parts or points, two Delegates can request
that they be separated. Discussion and voting then takes place on each part
separately.
Committee of
the Whole
For greater freedom of discussion, the Court may move into a Committee of
the Whole, by motion (not debatable and not amendable). The usual limits of
debate do not apply, and only the specified issue(s) can be addressed. The
Committee’s first action is to appoint a Chairperson and Secretary. When the
work is concluded, the Court is automatically reconstituted; the Committee
cannot adjourn. The Chairperson reports to the Court, and moves any
Proposal produced by the Committee.
Priority of
Motions:
(When a motion
is on the floor,
any motion
higher on the
list is in order,
and any motion
lower on the
list is out of
order.)
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
Main Motion
The motion “on the floor” when amendments or procedural motions are made.
Motion to
Amend
A motion to add, delete or change some words of a main motion (or
amendment) currently on the floor, in order to clarify or modify the proposed
course of action. Negating the intent of the motion is out of order. The number
of amendments is not limited, but only one motion, one amendment, and one
amendment to the amendment can be on the floor at one time. Voting takes
place on the amendment to the amendment, then on the amendment (as
amended or not), and then on the main motion (as amended or not).
Motion to
Adjourn
Must be seconded, and is not debatable. A Motion to Adjourn will be part of
the final Order Paper.
Motion to Lay
on the Table
Suspends debate on the main motion and any amendments; but cannot have
any conditions attached to it, cannot be debated, and cannot be repeated or
reconsidered. The item can be taken from the table by motion when no other
business is before the court, and discussion continues where it left off.
To Fix the Time to Adjourn
To Adjourn
Question of Privilege or Point of Order
To Lay on the Table
To Take an Immediate Vote (requires a 2/3 majority)
To Limit or Extend the Limits of Debate (requires a 2/3 majority)
To Postpone Definitely
To Refer
To Amend
To Postpone Indefinitely
To Deal with Main Motions
To Reconsider
7
Motion to Take
an Immediate
Vote
Suspends debate on the main motion in order that a vote be taken
immediately; cannot be debated, and must carry with a 2/3 majority. The
mover of the main motion has the right of speaking to close the debate before
the vote.
Motion to Refer
Asks a specified group or committee to do further work on the main motion
and any amendments, and should specify when the report will be received.
Debate can only address the wisdom or the manner of referral.
Motion to
Postpone
(Definitely or
Indefinitely)
Suspends debate on the original motion, with conditions. A “Motion to
Postpone Definitely” specifies a time on the agenda or other scheduled event.
A “Motion to Postpone Indefinitely” means that discussion of the original
motion can only resume with the approval of the Court.
Motion to
Reconsider
Brings a previous motion back before the Court; the mover must have voted
with the majority for the previous motion. This motion requires a 2/3 majority. A
motion cannot be reconsidered twice unless materially changed from the
original.
8
BUSINESS PROCESS 2015
Step 1
Framing the
Question
“Yes”

Step 2
Exploring the
Question
a) Business Committee introduces Proposal, invites Presenters to present (2
min.)
b) President invites table group discussion.
c) President invites questions for clarification.
d) President: Are the members of the Court ready to consider this matter?
“No”

Business Committee will present a motion to take no action.
President: We will now use Parliamentary Procedure. (Step 5)
a) Table group discussion: Is the proposed action an appropriate response?
Can it be improved? Has it received full consideration? *
b) Comments made and recorded.
c) President: Are the members of the Court ready to proceed with the matter
as it is currently stated?
President invites further comments and discussion, or seeks direction
from the court on how much more time is needed.
“Yes”

“No”

Step 3
Pause
President: Let us take a moment of rest in preparation for making the decision.

Step 4
Offering a
Proposal
President: We are now using Parliamentary Procedure.
Presenter puts the motion as reworked in Step 2.

Rules of Debate apply (see Business Procedures for details)
 The mover speaks first, and last to close the debate; all others speak once
Step 5
Parliamentary  Amendments and procedural motions are in order
Procedure
 The President may ask the Court if it wants to return to Table Group
discussion
* In Step 2, discussion on a Proposal to General Council will focus on whether or not the
members of Conference concur with the Proposal, whether or not the Proposal should be
transmitted to General Council, and if any recommendations should accompany it. Changes
to the wording of the Proposal are not permitted.
9
Alberta and Northwest Conference
th
84 Conference Meeting, May 28-31, 2015
Submitting a Proposal
Section F of The Manual (2013), Initiating Action and Change, outlines how proposals are used by the
courts of the church to request another court to take action.
The Conference deals with four types of proposals, classified according to the origin and the destination:
1. Proposals to Conference from Official Boards or Presbyteries
2. Proposals of Conference from Conference Delegates or Committees
3. Proposals to General Council from Conference Delegates or Committees
4. Proposals to General Council from Official Boards or Presbyteries
In the first two types, the Conference is being asked to take an action. In the third, the Conference is
considering a request for the General Council to take an action. In the fourth type, the Conference must
decide if it agrees with the proposal. If it agrees, it passes the proposal on to the General Council. If it
disagrees with the proposal, it decides whether or not to pass the proposal on to the General Council
(with or without any additional recommendations).
PROPOSAL FORMAT
Title:
Originating Body:
Financial Implications if known:
Staffing Implications if known:
Source of Funding if known:
The [originating body] proposes that:
The specific action is proposed.
The words must stand alone when the Decision is made.
The specific action requested needs to be a measurable objective or doable task.
It need not explain in detail how but should be clear as to what is to be achieved, and
of whom the request is made.
Formatting should be uniform in all proposals; multiple sections should be numbered
and lettered for easy reference.
Avoid acronyms and pronouns which hinder clarity.
Background:
Define the context:
 the issue to be considered
 who is asking for action on the issue
 what is hoped to be achieved
 how and why the question emerged
 what relevant information has been considered
 the implications of the recommended action
 how the proposed action addresses the need.
The background information is not to convince others of your conclusion, but to assist them in their
discernment. The Proposal and background summary should not normally exceed two pages. The
Background is for information only, and does not form part of the Decision.
Intermediate Court Action:
Outline the journey of the Proposal indicating each Court and Action taken, including any
Recommendations made.
If “passed on without agreement” an explanation as to why it was forwarded should be included.
10
Response Form
Use this form to comment on or submit questions about items in the Agenda Book, Displays, and
Presentations. Submit it to the Business Table in the plenary room. Please print clearly. Extra copies of
this form are available from the Business Committee.
Title/Topic
Origin
Questions
Comments
Concerns
11
Motion Form
Clearly print you motion or amendment, and submit the form to the Business Table. Extra copies of
this form are available from the Business Committee.
Mover:
Presbytery:
Seconder:
Presbytery:
Subject:
Motion:
12
Excerpt from: Alberta and Northwest Conference Handbook of Policies and Procedures
1.9 Role of the Conference President
Mandate: Section D.3.4.1 of The Manual (2013) of The United Church of Canada states:
a. Election: The Conference is responsible for electing a President or Leading Elder from
among its members. The Conference may not delegate the election of a President or
Leading Elder to the Executive, the Sub-Executive, or a commission.
b. Term of Office: The Conference is responsible for deciding the term of the President or
leading Elder. It may be a term of one, two, or three years. (In Alberta and Northwest
Conference the term is two (2) years.)
c. President-Elect: The Conference may also elect a President-Elect to serve as the next
President.
d. Responsibilities of President or Leading Elder: The president or leading Elder is
responsible for
(i) formally opening the meetings of the Conference;
(ii) presiding and keeping order at meetings;
(iii) taking votes and announcing the results;
(iv) directing the Conference’s business;
(v) ensuring the names of members of the order of ministry transferred into and out of
the Conference are reported to the Conference immediately after the roll is called at
the annual meeting; and
(vi) fulfilling other responsibilities as assigned by the Conference or the General Council.
e. Committee Membership: The President or Leading Elder is automatically a member of
all Conference committees.
f. Right to Preside at Services and Administer Communion: A President or Leading Elder
who is a diaconal minister or a layperson may.
(i) preside at services of commissioning and ordination; and
(ii) administer communion at regular meetings of the Conference and its Executive.
g. Acting President or Leading Elder: If the President or Leading Elder dies, resigns, is
removed, or cannot serve for any other reason, an Acting President or Leading Elder
must take their place.
The Acting President or Leading Elder will be the most recent Past President or Leading
Elder who is still a member of the Conference. This Acting President or Leading Elder
will complete the term.
There is one exception. If there is a President-Elect, that person will be the Acting
President. This Acting President will complete the term and then continue in office for the
next term.
Role: The President shall:
 Constitute the meetings of the Conference, its Executive and Sub-Executive and preside
at its meetings -- preserve good order, seek good governance, take the vote and
announce Decisions
 Provide spiritual leadership to the Conference
Duties: In fulfilling the role of President in Alberta & Northwest Conference the following duties
will be undertaken:
 Visit each of the nine Presbyteries to encourage and build up the mission of the church
in the Conference and its Presbyteries
 Communicate with the Conference through articles in each issue of In Contact published
in the Observer, greetings and Conference mailings as appropriate
13
1.9 Role of the Conference President - Continued








Attend and help to celebrate special anniversaries and events at the invitation of
Congregations, mission units, AOTS, and Women’s Ministries in the Conference
Attend meetings of the Conference Meeting Planning Committee and the Planning and
Administration Committee
Attend the annual Newcomers’ Orientation and the final Education and Students
interviews with ministry candidates
Attend the Conference Presidents’ Gathering hosted by the General Council -- if such
gathering convenes during the term of the incumbent President
Attend as a Commissioner the meeting of the General Council -- if the General Council
meets during the incumbent’s term of office
With the Executive Secretary, respond to media relations issues and represent The
United Church of Canada before provincial and territorial government bodies, as invited
In consultation with the Executive Secretary, respond to correspondence addressed to
the President
Provide coaching/mentoring for the President-Elect
Role Relationships:
The President is accountable to the Conference and its Executive and works closely with the
Executive Secretary.
Conflict of Interest:
In order to avoid potential conflict of interest situations, the President will resign from any
Presbytery and Conference committees, working groups and tasks during the term of office.
(Updated August 2011 and August 2013)
December 2004
14
Nomination Form: Conference President
Information about Nominee
 Order of Ministry
Name
 Lay Member
Presbytery
Biographical Information: Please outline pertinent information about the Nominee’s interests or
experience as they may relate to the role of President of Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Consent of Nominee
I am willing to stand for election as President of Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Signature
Address
Postal Code
Phone
Nominators
(H)
(W)
Name
Presbytery
Signature
Name
Presbytery
Signature
Nominations close at Noon, on Friday, May 29, 2015.
Please submit this form to the Executive Secretary prior to the close of nominations.
15
Nomination Form: President-Elect
Information about Nominee
 Order of Ministry
Name
 Lay Member
Presbytery
Biographical Information: Please outline pertinent information about the Nominee’s interests or
experience as they may relate to the role of President of Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Consent of Nominee
I am willing to stand for election as President-Elect of Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Signature
Address
Postal Code
Phone
Nominators
(H)
(W)
Name
Presbytery
Signature
Name
Presbytery
Signature
Nominations close at Noon, on Friday, May 29, 2015.
Please submit this form to the Executive Secretary prior to the close of nominations.
16
Nomination Form: Order of Ministry Representative
to the General Council Executive
Information about Nominee
Name
Presbytery
Has attended General Council Before?
If Yes: Year(s)
 No
 Yes
In what capacity?
Conference Experience: Please outline information about the Nominee’s current and previous
involvement in Conference work.
Biographical Information: Please outline pertinent information about the Nominee’s interests or
experience as they may relate to the role of Order of Ministry Representative to the General Council
Executive.
Consent of Nominee
I am willing to be the Order of Ministry Representative to the General Council Executive, and participate
as a member of the Conference Executive.
Name
Signature
Address
Postal Code
Phone
Nominators
(H)
(W)
Name
Presbytery
Signature
Name
Presbytery
Signature
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Lynn Maki, Executive Secretary, at the
Conference Office: Telephone, 780-435-3995, Ext. 224, or E-mail, [email protected].
Nominations close at 5:00 p.m., on Friday, May 29, 2015.
Please submit this form to the Executive Secretary prior to the close of nominations.
17
Excerpt from: Alberta and Northwest Conference Handbook of Policies and Procedures
1.10 Election of Commissioners to General Council
The Conference is responsible for electing commissioners to the General Council.
It must elect an equal number from each of the following groups:
(a) members of the order of ministry and designated lay ministers, in a proportion
reflecting their relative numbers in the Conference; and
(b) lay members other than designated lay ministers.
Commissioners must be members of the Conference that elected them at the time of the
election and at the time that the General Council meets.
The Conference is responsible for deciding how to elect its commissioners.
The Conference is also responsible for electing a number of alternate commissioners.
The Manual (2013), Section D.2.5
The Conference process provides for nominations and representation from each of the nine
Presbyteries. The following policy was approved by the Alberta and Northwest Conference
Executive on February 6, 2000.
The Alberta and Northwest Conference Executive adopts the following process for the election
of Commissioners to the General Council:
1. That the following persons be elected as Commissioners:
President, President-Elect, Conference United Church Women President (or designate), and
the two Conference Representatives to the General Council Executive (or their alternates).
2. That the balance of the Commissioners be elected as follows:
i. That each Presbytery be asked to nominate one Order of Ministry person and one lay
person, such nominations to be given to the Executive Secretary prior to the start of the
Conference Meeting in which the elections are to take place.
ii. That there be additional nominations from the floor during the Conference Meeting, such
nominations to be signed by at least two persons and the nominee.
iii. That each candidate or his/her nominators post an 8½ x 11 sheet at the Conference
meeting giving pertinent information about the nominee.
iv. That the candidates for election be presented to the delegates at the Conference
meeting.
v. That an open ballot listing all the nominees and their Presbyteries be presented to the
delegates at the Conference Meeting and the delegates be asked to choose up to the
number needed to be elected.
vi. That the nominees receiving the most votes be declared elected as Commissioners with
the following exception:
That the Conference elect as Commissioners the lay and ordered nominees from each of the
nine Presbyteries who receive the most votes from the Conference.
vii. That the runners up in the ballot, after the exception noted above has been taken into
account for purposes of the initial election only, be considered as Alternates in the order
of most votes received replacing any of the previously elected Commissioners who are
unable or become ineligible to attend the General Council meeting.
(Updated January 2012 and August 2013)
December 2001
18
Nomination Form: Commissioner to General Council
Information about Nominee
 Order of Ministry
Name
Age Category
 16-20
 21-30
 Lay Member
 Over 30
Presbytery
Has attended General Council Before?
If Yes: Year(s)
 No
 Yes
In what capacity?
Biographical Information: Please outline pertinent information about the Nominee’s interests or
experience as they may relate to the role of Commissioner.
Page 1 of 2
19
Consent of Nominee
I am aware of the duties as set forth on the reverse side of this form, and am willing to be a Commissioner
to General Council. I am willing to attend a Conference Pre-Council Orientation Event.
Name
Signature
Address
Postal Code
Phone
Nominators
(H)
(W)
Name
Presbytery
Signature
Name
Presbytery
Signature
DUTIES OF A COMMISSIONER TO GENERAL COUNCIL
1. To be knowledgeable of the procedures, organization and duties of General Council;
2. To study pre-Council documentation and preparation materials;
3. To attend a Conference pre-Council Orientation event at the conclusion of the 84th
Conference Meeting, at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, May 31, 2015, and an on-site training session
immediately prior to the General Council;
4. To attend all sessions of the meeting of the 42nd General Council, August 8-15, 2015, in
Corner Brook, Newfoundland;
5. To attend a Conference post-Council event to evaluate and plan regarding reporting,
accountability and implementation; and
6. To be available to make reports to Pastoral Charges, Presbyteries and the Conference
about the meeting and the work of the General Council during the three year term in which
you are a Commissioner.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Lynn Maki, Executive Secretary at the
Conference Office: Telephone, 780-435-3995, Ext. 224, or E-mail, [email protected].
Nominations from the Floor of Conference close at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, May 30, 2015.
Please submit this form to the Executive Secretary prior to the close of nominations.
Page 2 of 2
20
CANDIDATES FOR ORDER OF MINISTRY
ORDAINED MINISTRY
Deanna Yvonne Cox, B.Sc., M.Div.
Gregory Andrew Powell, B.A.Sc., M.Div.
DIACONAL MINISTRY
Kelley Patricia Warner, B.Ed., Diploma in Diaconal Ministries
ADMITTED FROM ANOTHER DENOMINATION
To Diaconal Ministry
Marlene Margaret Britton-Walfall, B.Sc., Dipl. Ministerial Studies,
B.A. Theology, Cert. in Social Work and Counselling,
Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas
To Ordained Ministry
David Milton Crawford, B.A., M.Div.,
Presbyterian Church in Canada
John Fulton Crowdis, B.A., M.Div.,
Presbyterian Church in Canada
RE-ADMITTED TO THE UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA
Richard Allen Prieston, B.Sc., M.Div. (Coronation Presbytery)
RETIREES
ORDER OF MINISTRY
Robert Aldrich, B.A., M.Div. (St. Paul Presbytery)
Roslyn Campbell, B.A., M.Div., LL.B. (Calgary Presbytery)
Stuart Jackson, B.Sc., M.Div. (Edmonton Presbytery)
Sharon McRann, B.Th., Dipl. in Diac. Min. (Northern Lights/Yellowhead Presbytery)
Robert Moore, Dipl. in Diac. Min. (Foothills Presbytery)
Roderick Sykes, B.A., M.A., D.Phil., M.Div. (Calgary Presbytery)
21
Memorials
Members of Conference who have passed away, and whose names
have been made known to the Conference Office since the last meeting
of Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Rev. Clifford Horace Parkes
April 2, 2014
Rev. William Douglas Waite
June 1, 2014
Rev. Velma Ann Kane
July 15, 2014
Rev. Russell Gilbert Beairsto
October 6, 2014
Dr. Sheila McHutchison
October 10, 2014
Nellie Mae Spicer
November 11, 2014
Reta Elizabeth Wilk
December 20, 2014
Rev. James Leonard Henning
January 31, 2015
Metro Topolnisky
February 24, 2015
Rev. William (Bill) John Dixon
March 24, 2015
Rev. Robert Arnold Kayes
March 30, 2015
Rev. Ronald Everett Jeffrey
April 7, 2015
John Gordon McFadyen
April 8, 2015
Rev. Dr. Gerald Middleton Hutchinson
April 14, 2015
Evelyn Frey
April 15, 2015
Rev. James (Jim) William Roberts
May 1, 2015
22
SECTION B
Proposals to the 84th Conference Meeting
Proposal #
Title
ANWC - 1
Legacy Revitalization Fund
ANWC - 2
Mission in Transition Model Evaluation
ANWC - 3
Ex-Officio Commissioners to 42
ANWC - 4
Budget for 2016
ANWC - 5
Appointment of a Full-Time Conference Chaplain
ANWC - 6
Child Well-Being Index
ANWC - 7
Clergy Day Apart
23
nd
General Council
PROPOSAL TO CONFERENCE #1: LEGACY REVITALIZATION FUND
TITLE: Alberta and Northwest Conference Legacy Revitalization Fund
A Policy Proposal: Distribution of Assets on Disbanding or
Amalgamating Congregations
ORIGINATING BODY: The Executive of Alberta and Northwest Conference
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The Executive of Alberta and Northwest Conference proposes:
1. That Alberta and Northwest Conference establish a Legacy Revitalization Fund for the purpose of
receiving net cash assets from the sale of church property when a congregation has disbanded or
when surplus assets are identified from the amalgamation of two or more congregations; for the
purpose of pooling funds for re-investment of the church’s wealth to strengthen, re-energize and
create new ministries of The United Church of Canada;
2. That in advance of and in preparation for the use of the Legacy Revitalization Funds from the sale
of church property, Presbyteries are to create a priority list of existing congregations (local
ministry units), missions, and ministries of the United Church of Canada that could benefit from
the Legacy monies. This list is to reviewed regularly, in order for it to remain in current context,
and shared with congregations as they consider disbanding and liquidating their property;
3. That first call on the assets from the sale of property following the retirement of debt and costs
associated with the sale of the property be as follows:
a. 5% be allocated to the Archives Trust Fund of Alberta and Northwest Conference to archive
the records of the disbanded congregation,
b. 10% of remaining funds to be given to the Mission and Service Fund of The United Church of
Canada;
4. That the second call on the assets from the sale of the property will be as follows:
c. The pre-determined United Church ministry and/or mission as decided by the congregation in
consultation with the Presbytery.
Beyond that the Presbytery within whose bounds the disbanded/amalgamated congregation
was/is located has first option on applying for funds from the Legacy Revitalization Fund within
the first 90 days following the announcement of available funds; for the purpose of strengthening
or energizing an existing ministry or to create a new ministry within the Presbytery;
5. That, following the 90 day first option time period, if said Presbytery has not made application to
the Fund for monies, said funds be made available to fulfill applications from throughout the
Conference; and
6. That the Legacy Revitalization Fund be administered by the Appeals and Grants Committee of
Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Background:
In March 2013, the Conference Executive approved the creation of an Ad Hoc Committee to:
 Propose a policy framework to guide decisions of the Conference and the Presbytery about use
of assets of disbanded congregations (and assets declared surplus following the amalgamation of
two or more congregations); and
 help create a culture of trust that the courts of the wider church are well placed to make decisions
which will enable the mission of the church to go forward
The Ad Hoc Committee was directed to report to the Conference Executive “within one year, and
that the committee continue its work of education through the presbyteries until the Spring of
2015.
24
Taking guidance from Acts 2: 44-45, All who believed were together and had all things in
common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any
had need, the purpose of the Legacy Revitalization Fund is to provide aid and support to local
ministry units and other ministries of The United Church of Canada in order to sustain and grow
healthy ministries and to share generously the hospitality of the church in the world. The assets
of the church sustain the mission of the whole church.
The Manual (2013 Edition) in Section G.1.5.7 assigns responsibility for the distribution of assets
from the sale of property within its bounds to the Conference.
25
PROPOSAL TO CONFERENCE #2: MISSION IN TRANSITION MODEL EVALUATION
TITLE: Mission in Transition Model Evaluation
ORIGINATING BODY: Executive of Alberta and Northwest Conference
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: Maximum of $25,000
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS: Addition of a part-time contract position
SOURCE OF FUNDING: Budget line for staffing
The Executive of Alberta and Northwest Conference proposes:
1. That the Alberta and Northwest Conference receive the report of the evaluation of the
Mission in Transition Governance Model as prepared by the Executive;
2. That no changes to the current committee, staff or financing structures be implemented
in the coming triennium;
3. That the Alberta and Northwest Conference contract with an individual to resource the
Youth and Young Adults Ministry Standing Committee (YAYAM) and, aided by YAYAM
and a volunteer committee, to plan a joint Youth Rally (or equivalent) and Mid-Triennium
Event tentatively to be scheduled for the Spring of 2017; and
4. That funding support for the contract position be provided through an amendment to the
Staffing Budget, in the form of a Contract Position, to a maximum of $25,000 over a two
year period; to be reviewed prior to the Budget 2018.
Background:
At its 83rd Meeting in 2012, the Alberta and Northwest Conference approved the Mission
in Transition Model for Conference Governance. This Model came into effect on January
1, 2013.
The Mission in Transition Model was developed to uphold three important principles:
sustainability, vitality and faithfulness. In addition, it was required to be faithful to the
Conference Goals of Healthy Congregations, Effective Ministries, Strong Public
Witness, and Open Connections and Communication.
It was believed that this Model would allow for discernment of the United Church mission
and vision in Alberta and Northwest Conference, while remaining flexible in responding
to changing levels of funding and the uncertainty regarding the future direction of The
United Church of Canada.
The Executive of Alberta and Northwest Conference was given the responsibility to
develop and implement an evaluation process to assist the Conference in measuring the
effectiveness of this Model in reaching the Conference Goals, and to report to the 84th
Meeting of Alberta and Northwest Conference in 2015.
In October of 2014, the Executive gathered with leaders in youth ministry to talk about
the future of youth ministry in the Conference. Over the winter months, an online survey
was conducted with participation from 152 Members of the Conference. Then, in late
January of this year, the Executive of Alberta and Northwest Conference met with the
Chairpersons of Conference Committees to evaluate the Mission in Transition
Governance Model.
What follows is the report from these two discussions, and from the summary of survey
responses.
26
INTRODUCTION:
The Conference has been living within the Mission in Transition Model for Conference
Governance to enhance (1) sustainability, (2) vitality and (3) faithfulness, which have
served as principles in Conference leadership and organization since the Conference
Meeting in 2012.
Sustainability: It felt good (though not easy) to work within our means and know we
could sustain the Mission in Transition Model for three years. It helped Presbyteries and
Congregations by lowering Assessments and keeping ministry dollars in their regions;
and it allowed for the support of 12 new ministries through Mission Transition Fund
Grants, totaling $135,000 dispersed to date, to support new, emerging and exciting
projects and ministries throughout the Conference.
Vitality: The Mid-Triennium Event, Glad and Generous Hearts, held in November 2013,
was thought to have been a solid and nourishing event. The feedback has been positive
for doing this event again and involving more people in the planning. The children’s
program at the event was received favourably, however, youth components were
missing.
It is recommended that the Mid-Triennium Event continue to include a creative children’s
program and a youth program in order to increase youth and young adult participation.
Future Mid-Triennium Events will be held in the Spring of the year to avoid, as much as
is possible, dramatic weather.
The Four Conference Goals: Healthy Congregations, Effective Ministries, Strong
Public Witness, and Open Connections and Communication: While these goals
were all seen as great pillars to lead and organize our work, they did not seem to
actually allow for measurement or provide the steps to help us “reach” them. It is
suggested that work be done on using them as priorities under which we develop our
goals.
In particular, we believe that the Mission in Transition Model worked best in the “goal”
area of Open Connections and Communication, as it freed up funds for both a new
website (and the paid resource people to launch it), and increased the number of voices
at Conference Executive by adding representatives from the Youth and Young Adult
Ministry, Stewardship and Mission Education, Living into Right Relations, and
Intercultural Ministry Standing Committees.
It was also felt that the goals of Effective Ministries and Healthy Congregations had
begun to be realized under this Model, and the Conference Executive is confident that
work done by our many teams in the areas of pastoral relationships and abuse
prevention and education, has enabled our students to be ready to meet the new
national and regional developments currently under consideration. While many
Presbyteries felt empowered by the new Model to better undertake their responsibilities,
others felt that more work in this area was being downloaded onto their volunteer
leadership as a result of not having regional staff persons.
The Model has not worked perfectly, and throughout the triennium, some committees
have come to the Executive to change their terms of reference in order to better fit their
work. The new terms also meet the Conference priorities of sustainable, vital and faithfilled work.
The timing of the evaluation and the evaluation discussion requested of the staff is
difficult. Just as the Mission in Transition Model was initiated to be more flexible to
changes coming in the wider church as well as at local levels, the coming triennium will
27
be one needing even more flexibility, and will include a decrease in funding from the
General Council Staffing Grant. The Conference Executive felt we could not address the
weaknesses of this Model with any new staff positions. We thus must prioritize to
determine where resources can be freed up and used best to encourage areas of our
communal work that are in need.
Strong Public Witness is the one area where, while many folks worked for and in this
area, it was difficult to sustain strong committee networking with fewer staff hours to
resource and connect these teams. One place this could be encouraged, and networks
for further work begun/renewed, is the Mid-Triennium Event. This Event is in need of a
larger team to bring out all of its potentiality, and a Resource Committee could ensure
that more voices are heard in its planning and leadership.
In particular, Youth and Young Adult Ministries have struggled without a central
networking person. The recommendation to hire a contract staff person is intended to
address concerns raised by the survey respondents, and the October 2014 discussion
noted above.
RE-EVALUATION:
Everyone is reminded that the Conference vision is to encourage the Church, locally and
regionally, where the following occur for ALL AGES:
 Congregational life is vital and inviting for youth and young adults;
 Ministry Personnel and Congregations are in creative and productive pastoral
relationships with youth and young adults;
 There is a prophetic and caring response is important to the needs of individuals and
communities with and in service to youth and young adults; and
 Communication between the various constituencies of the Church is open and
effective, and includes our Conference’s youth and young adults in wider Church
activities and ministries.
Furthermore, in discussing future directions for Youth Ministry, Alberta and Northwest
Conference has discerned that youth and young adults will not be connected unless it is
done intentionally through a Youth Rally and/or similar event. There is a relatively
narrow, “short-term” window within which to connect with young people because of their
involvement in education, athletics, personal affiliations, and other commitments.
CONFERENCE STAFF WORKLOAD CHANGES SINCE 2012:
In response to concerns raised regarding the workload of the current Conference Staff
during the Evaluation Discussion, the Staff was directed by the Executive to prepare a
report on how the Mission in Transition Model has affected workload.
The following points are excerpts from the Staff Report to the Conference Executive:
 Regional staff members were helpful to us in the Conference Office, in terms of
knowing what is happening in the Presbyteries. Presbyteries are much harder to
contact effectively now.
 With the loss of program staff, the Executive Secretary has taken on more program
work and always feels the program committees she is called to resource do not
receive the support or the time they need to be most effective. There is a sense of
being pulled in many directions.
 A trickle-down effect has been felt by administrative staff, as both the Personnel
Minister and the Executive Secretary have taken on more work to cover for the loss
of regional and program staff.
28

If the work were to be done at the level of excellence we expect of ourselves, we
need two Personnel Ministers, and program staff to engage Intercultural Ministries,
Living into Right Relations, Youth and Young Adult Ministry, and Stewardship and
Mission Education work. At the same time, we know the reality of shrinking budgets.
RECOGNITION:
A number of individuals within the Conference have been actively engaged with Youth
and Young Adult Ministry over the past several years, i.e., Liz Carter-Morgan, Heather
Carlson, Karen Bridges, Denise Davis-Taylor, and Tim Nethercott, to name but a few.
Furthermore, the St. Andrew’s Project Team in Calgary, Mark Chiang leading Haven for
LGBT Youth in Edmonton, and Yoon-Ok Shin Kang leading Intercultural Connections,
are in supportive positions to provide valuable insight.
RECOMMENDATION:
The Executive recommends that no changes to the Committee, Staff or financing structures be
implemented in the coming triennium. However, we do recommend that the Conference engage
the services of a part-time contract staff employee, and that this person commence contact
early on with the resource groups, youth leaders, and other persons we already have in our
Conference to prepare for and plan, a joint Mid-Triennium Event/Youth Rally.
29
PROPOSAL TO CONFERENCE #3: EX-OFFICIO COMMISSIONERS TO 42
TITLE: Ex-Officio Commissioners to the 42
nd
ND
GENERAL COUNCIL
General Council
ORIGINATING BODY: The Executive of Alberta and Northwest Conference
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATION:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The Executive of Alberta and Northwest Conference proposes:
That Alberta and Northwest Conference allow for the one time addition of the names of two youth
Commissioners, as recommended by their colleagues at the Youth Forum February gathering, to the list
of those elected Ex-Officio, that is, by virtue of office, to be Commissioners to the 42nd General Council,
Corner Brook, NL.
Background:
There are three phases for Youth Forum at General Council 42:
Winter Retreat
Each of the 13 Conferences was invited to send five youth to attend the Youth Forum Winter
Retreat, which met February 13-16, 2015 at Five Oaks Retreat Centre, Paris, Ontario. The
youth engaged in experiential learning activities to become more aware of the current
structures of the church, how decisions are made by General Council and the work coming to
nd
the 42 General Council (GC42), especially the report of the Comprehensive Review Task
Group. The youth also discerned their roles following the retreat.
One youth from each Conference will engage in a summer pilgrimage to GC42. Three Youth
will attend General Council 42 in Corner Brook, NL either as Commissioners or Youth Forum
delegates (voice but not vote). Two youth will act as pilgrim partners, developing local
pilgrimage experiences in their areas and connecting with the Pilgrims making their way
across Canada as they travel from Conference to Conference.
Summer Pilgrimage
During the summer of 2015, 13 youth Commissioners plus 2 young adult leaders will be
employed by the General Council, in partnership with the GO Project, to make a pilgrimage
across the country. As they journey they will listen to the dreams and needs of young people,
visit sites and people that will help to inform them of the issues before the Church and this
General Council.
The Pilgrimage site in Alberta and Northwest Conference will be Fort McMurray, Alberta
where the pilgrims will be hosted by First United Church. They will experience first-hand the
oil sands development work in the Fort McMurray area, and will meet with First Nations
leaders and environmental leaders, as they learn about the complex issues associated with
energy development.
General Council 42
Three Youth from Alberta and Northwest Conference have been identified by their peers at
nd
the Winter Retreat to attend the 42 General Council.
It is recommended that Julia Heesing and Eden Middleton be elected to be Commissioners
from Alberta and Northwest Conference. Dominic Petti will attend as a Youth Forum
delegate.
30
PROPOSAL TO CONFERENCE #4: BUDGET FOR 2016
TITLE: Budget for 2016
ORIGINATING BODY: Planning and Administration Committee
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATION:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The Planning and Administration Committee proposes:
That the Alberta and Northwest Conference approve the proposed Budget for 2016 as presented.
Background:
The proposed Budget for 2016, below, is based on the following assumptions:
1. 30% Reduction to the General Council Operating Grant, from $304, 500 in 2015, to $213,200
in 2016;
2. No reduction in budgets for Conference Committees;
3. Approval of the recommendation of the Conference Executive to contract with and individual
to plan a joint Youth Rally and Mid-Triennium Event, as outlined in Proposal to Conference
#2: Mission in Transition Model Evaluation; and
4. No increase to Presbytery Assessments.
The Proposed Budget for 2016:
31
32
33
34
PROPOSAL TO CONFERENCE #5: APPOINTMENT OF A FULL-TIME CONFERENCE CHAPLAIN
TITLE: Appointment of a Full-time Conference Chaplain
ORIGINATING BODY: Cold Lake-Pierceland Pastoral Charge, St. Paul Presbytery
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: Increase in Conference budget to hire an additional staff
member
STAFFING IMPLICATION: Appointing an additional Conference staff member for
September 2015
SOURCE OF FUNDING: The Conference Budget
The Cold Lake-Pierceland Pastoral Charge proposes:
That the Alberta and Northwest Conference, as a matter of urgency, create a new full time Conference
staff position for the appointment of a full-time Conference Chaplain
Background:
Given the changing nature of society and the church, the pressures on Ministry Personnel and
their families continue to increase. On an ongoing basis, Ministry Personnel are called upon to
offer Pastoral Care to persons, within and outside of the church, yet too often, there is no one
individual who is so appointed to offer Pastoral Care to Ministry Personnel or their families.
These duties include, and are not limited to, support to persons at times of bereavement or
serious illnesses, crisis in home and family life, and support at times of change and other critical
points of life. Whereas the lay persons in our congregations have the option to turn to their
minister for support and care the current systems seem to suggest that ministers and their
families must use their initiative and creativity if they are in need of similar care, and support.
This places ministers, their spouses/partners, and their families at a very vulnerable position and
sometimes creates stressful situations which these persons may have to navigate alone. In
variably the person who is oftentimes contacted in these times of crisis is the Conference
Personnel Minister.
The Cold Lake-Pierceland Pastoral Charge acknowledges that the Alberta and Northwest
Conference covers a large geographic span which includes three Provinces and two Territories
but yet, it is noted that there is only one person appointed to the post of Conference Personnel
Minister. It is also noted that, given the administrative bureaucracy involved in issues of Pastoral
Relations and other personnel and ministry issues, much of the time of the current Conference
Personnel Minister must be devoted to administrative details.
This proposal is for the Conference to appoint an individual whose responsibility would be to offer
the necessary Pastoral Care to Ministry Personnel, Conference Staff, and employees and their
families. Such a person should also take particular care for support to retired ministers and their
families and for the widow/widowers of former ministers. The duties of the person should include
that he/she works with the Conference Personnel Minister to arrange such workshops/training
opportunities for ministry personnel and their families that enable the total well-being of these
individuals.
It is acknowledged that the United Church of Canada is in the process of comprehensively
changing its current structures of governance. As such it is anticipated that, within the next three
years, there may be no Conference level of administration. However, the need for the pastoral
care of ministers and those who serve the church will continue irrespective of whatever structures
are adopted in the future. Furthermore, given the additional work that the forthcoming transition
may add to the work load of existing Ministry Personnel and Conference employees, the church
must act to help persons to continue the work of ministry.
Intermediate Court Action:
Transmitted, with concurrence, by St. Paul Presbytery to Alberta and Northwest Conference.
35
PROPOSAL TO CONFERENCE #6: CHILD WELL-BEING INDEX
TITLE: Child Well-Being Index
ORIGINATING BODY: Alberta and Northwest Conference United Church Women
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS: Unknown
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS: Unknown
SOURCE OF FUNDING: N/A
Alberta and Northwest Conference United Church Women propose that:
The Alberta and Northwest Conference Executive Secretary write to Alberta’s Premier and members of
the Legislative Assembly challenging them to adopt and implement a Child Well-Being Index in the
province of Alberta.
Background:
“What father among you would hand his son a stone when he asked for bread? Or hand him a
snake instead of a fish? Or hand him a scorpion if he asked for an egg? If you then who are
evil know how to give your children what is good, how much more will the heavenly Father
give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”
(Luke 11 – 11-13 Jerusalem Bible/Readers’ Edition)
1. All children have the right to good health and good quality health care. All children should have
1
2.
3.
4.
5.
clean water, nutritious food and a clean environment so they can stay healthy.
All children have the right to a good quality education and should be encouraged to go to school
2
to the highest level they can. The purpose of an education is to develop every child’s
3
personality, talents and mental and physical abilities.
The government has a responsibility to make sure children’s rights are protected. Governments
must help families protect the rights of children and provide an environment where children can
4
grow and reach their full potential.
In Alberta alone, 143,200 children lived below the Low Income Measure in 2012. This represents
16.2 per cent of all Alberta children. Compared to 16.4 per cent in 1989, there has been no
5
significant positive change.
In 2012, the ruling Conservation Party promised Albertans to eliminate child poverty by 2017.
This is far from reality.
We challenge all levels of Canadian government to implement a child-specific index to measure
the effectiveness of programs aimed to improve the well-being of all our children.
6
Child Well-being Index
All children have a right to:
1. three meals a day based on the most recent Canada Food Guide.
2. adequate, affordable, safe housing.
3. enough clothes for different seasons (both new and second-hand) a minimum of 2 pairs of wellfitting shoes and a pair of winter boots.
4. preventative and curative physical and mental health services including:
 child mental health professionals
 annual medical check-up
 dental and vision care and required prescriptions
 adequate rest and play.
5. relationships which nurture each child’s spirit in fulfilling the need for:
 safety at home, at school or daycare and in his or her neighborhood
 consistent and predictable love and support.
6. safe, high quality, affordable daycare and drop-in day care.
36
7. age-appropriate books, an internet connection, indoor games and educational toys suitable for
the child’s age and knowledge level and a quiet, bright place to study.
8. a quality education, where each child is encouraged to reach his or her full potential.
9. free public transportation in urban areas.
10. regular involvement in:
 organized, age-appropriate physical activities both indoors and outdoors
 the fine arts
 school and community outings and wilderness experiences.
This Proposal was developed in collaboration with the Canadian Federation of University Women (Lethbridge
and District Chapter).
It takes the whole community to raise a child.
Footnotes:
1 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, signed by Canada in 1989 Article 24.
2 Article 28
3 Article 29
4 Article 4
5 No Change: After 25 years of Promises, it is Time to Eliminate Child Poverty November 2014
Edmonton Social Planning Council, Alberta College of Social Workers and Public Interest Alberta
th
(25 anniversary of the all-party House of Commons promise to eliminate child poverty in Canada.)
6 The Child Wellbeing Index was created in Alberta and was adapted and modelled in part using:
 the UNICEF 14-Item Child Specific Deprivation Index. (Innocenti Research Centre, 2012)
 the All You Need Is? Measuring Children's Perceptions and Experiences of Deprivation
(Barnardos and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul based on research conducted by the Children’s
Research Centre, Trinity College Dublin, 2011)
 Developing a Deprivation Index: The Research Process (Matern, Mendelson and Oliphant…The
story of the development of the Ontario Deprivation Index, 2009)
37
PROPOSAL TO CONFERENCE #7: CLERGY DAY APART
TITLE: Annual Meeting of Ministry Personnel: Clergy Day Apart
ORIGINATING BODY: Conference Pastoral Relationships Committee
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: Annually between $10-15,000
STAFFING IMPLICATION: Support through Conference Office staff
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The Conference Budget and other sources of funding including
registrations
The Conference Pastoral Relationships Committee proposes:
That the Alberta and Northwest Conference, agree that it is a priority for there to be an annual
gathering of ministry personnel engaged in paid accountable ministry, commencing in 2016, for
the purpose of networking, peer support, and continuing education;
That, in the years that there will be a Meeting of the Conference, this event take place prior to the
commencement of the Conference Meeting;
That the Conference create a committee to oversee, design, and facilitate the annual Clergy Day
Apart; and
That the Conference seek to secure, where possible, other potential sources of funding to
supplement Conference funds.
Background:
At the May 2015 meeting, the Conference Pastoral Relationships Committee acknowledged that one of
the primary ways we care for the health and vitality of communities of faith is through the ministry
personnel who engage in ministry with those communities. The likelihood of having vibrant and vital
communities is thus directly related to the health and vitality of ministry personnel and them being
engaged with intentional communities of support. The Committee also noted that in far too many
instances the ability of Presbyteries to fulfill their function of Congregation Oversight has been hampered
because of a lack of collegiality and a degree of suspicion among members of the Order of Minister within
the Conference.
The Conference Pastoral Relationships Committee noted that over the last number of years several
studies have been conducted relating to the health and wellbeing of ministry personnel across The United
Church of Canada, including The Isolation in Ministry Report. One of the consistent threads that has
emerged from those reports is the need for clergy to foster networks of collegiality and support. The
experiences of other groups outside the church, suggests that in times of significant change within an
institution strong networks of collegial support are particularly important.
In The Statement on Ministry in The United Church of Canada, 2012, The United Church of Canada
affirmed in part that, “Ordered ministries and those designated lay ministries recognized by the presbytery
are called to a distinct role of leadership within the church.” This distinct role of leadership requires
evolving mechanisms of support that are contextually relevant to the realities experienced by those in
paid accountable ministry, especially in a conference of such geographical abundance and varied
expressions of ministry leadership as ours.
While there could be some concern with the concept of a gathering limited to ministry personnel the
reality is that ministry personnel (and their families) experience tensions, pressures, challenges, and
expectations related to the vocation of ministry that is different and peculiar to the distinct leadership role
that the church has conferred upon them.
At the 2012 meeting of the Alberta and Northwest Conference four goals were established by the
Conference and these included 1) Healthy Congregations and 2) Effective Ministry. It is the consensus
view of the committee that one of the ways that Alberta and Northwest Conference can fulfill its stated
goals would be to provide the opportunity for all active ministry personnel to gather on an annual basis for
the purpose of networking, peer support, and continuing education.
38
SECTION C
Proposals to the 42nd General Council
Proposal #
Title
GC - 1
Nuclear Weapons-Free World
GC - 2
One Death per Minute
GC - 3
Social Justice Conversation
GC - 4
Caring for Pastoral Relationships
GC - 5
Justice within the New Compensation Model
GC - 6
The Rural Ministry of the UCC
GC - 7
Membership of the UCW in the General Council
GC - 8
Number of Regional Councils
GC - 9
Proposed Denominational Council
GC - 10
Proposed Regional Councils
GC - 11
Funding Model I
GC - 12
Funding Model II
GC - 13
Three Council Model
GC - 14
Child Well-Being Index
GC - 15
Representative of UCW on Councils
GC - 16
Grass Roots Stimulus
39
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #1: NUCLEAR WEAPONS-FREE WORLD
TITLE: Nuclear Weapons-Free World: A Call for the Negotiation of a
Nuclear Weapons Convention
ORIGINATING BODY: Parkdale United Church, Calgary Presbytery
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
General Secretary, General Council Office,
The United Church of Canada
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The Parkdale United Church proposes that:
The United Church of Canada call upon the Government of Canada to urgently:
a. Call upon the U.S. and Russia to reduce the alert status of their nuclear weapons; and
b. Publicly affirm its willingness to engage in negotiations for a Nuclear Weapons Convention or
an equivalent framework of agreements.
Background:
Observant of the Biblical call, “that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses.
Choose life so that you and your descendants may live …”(Deuteronomy 30:20) and that, “You
shall love your neighbour as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark
12:31);
Concerned by our knowledge of the 16,300 nuclear weapons on this Earth;
Distressed that roughly 2,000 of these weapons are “on alert”, thus capable of being used in under
30 minutes;
Alarmed at the knowledge that the smoke from firestorms from even a small exchange of nuclear
weapons could trigger climate change adequate to cause a nuclear famine;
Aware that 190 states agreed in 1968 to “pursue negotiations in good faith on effective measures
relating to the cessation of the nuclear arms race …”;
Concerned that multilateral negotiations on nuclear disarmament have not begun;
Grateful for the 2010 unanimous motion of Canada’s Senate and House of Commons that
“encourage[s] the Government of Canada to engage in negotiations for a nuclear weapons
convention as proposed by the United Nations Secretary-General” and “to deploy a major worldwide Canadian diplomatic initiative in support of preventing nuclear proliferation and increasing
the rate of nuclear disarmament;
Reassured by Canada’s support for the 2014 Inter-Parliamentary Union’s resolution, entitled,
“Toward a Nuclear Weapon-Free World: The Contribution of Parliaments”, that “recommends that
parliaments urge their governments to start negotiations on a nuclear weapons convention or on
a package of agreements to help achieve a nuclear weapon-free world …”
Sources:
Nuclear Forces, published by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)
Status of World Nuclear Forces, by Federation of American Scientists
Deadly Climate Change from Nuclear War: A Threat to Human Existence, by Steven Starr
Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, Article 6
Motion passed unanimously by the Senate of Canada (June 2, 2010) and the House of Commons
(December 7, 2010)
Toward a Nuclear Weapon-Free-World: The Contribution of Parliaments, Resolution adopted by
consensus by the Inter-Parliamentary Union, March 20, 2014
Intermediate Court Action:
Transmitted with concurrence by the Local and Global Outreach Commission, Calgary Presbytery to
Alberta and Northwest Conference
40
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #2: “ONE DEATH PER MINUTE”
TITLE: One Death per Minute: Call for Canadian Implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty
ORIGINATING BODY: Parkdale United Church, Calgary Presbytery
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
General Secretary, General Council Office,
The United Church of Canada
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The Parkdale United Church proposes that:
The United Church of Canada hereby call upon the Government of Canada to sign, ratify and
implement the Arms Trade Treaty.
Background:
Mindful of the Biblical imperative that, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13), and that we should,
“Do unto others as your would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:31);
Heartened to note the success of citizens in Ireland, Cambodia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Rwanda,
and Hiroshima in reconstructing after warfare and building more peaceful relations among their
people;
Deeply concerned that at least 500,000 people die every tear - at a rate of one death per minute and millions more are displaced and abused as a result of armed violence and conflict;
Aware that the trade in arms traps civilians in situations of armed violence in settings of both crime
and conflict and in conditions of poverty;
Noting the concerns of the United Nations with the consequences of the arms trade on civilians in
conflict zones including disruption of humanitarian and development organizations due to attacks
on staff, threats to peace keeping and peace-building operations;
Concerned that the Government of Canada persists in approving exports to states such as Brazil,
Columbia, India, Israel, Kenya, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey and Yemen,
countries which host armed conflict and/or serious human rights violations;
Noting the new Arms Trade Treaty would prohibit states from transferring conventional weapons to
countries where they know these weapons would be used to commit or facilitate genocide, crimes
against humanity or war crimes, or be used for serious violations of international humanitarian or
human rights laws;
Grateful that Canada voted in favour of approving the text of the Arms Trade Treaty in 2013; but
Concerned that Canada has failed to sign and ratify the Treaty.
Sources:
Global Burden of Armed Violence 2011 - Drawing on comprehensive country-level data, including
both conflict-related and criminal violence, it estimates that at least 526,000 people die
violently every year, more than three-quarters of them in non-conflict settings.
Canada holds off on arms trace treaty even after US has signed, The Canadian Press,
September 25, 2013
Canada’s arms exports, New report reflects old habits that fall short of the transparency
standards of the Arms Trade Treaty, by Kenneth Epps
The Ploughshares Monitor, Summer 2014, wherein they cite their sources to include Project
Ploughshares’ Armed Conflicts Report, US State Department’s Country Reports on Human
Rights Practices
Intermediate Court Action:
Transmitted with concurrence by the Local and Global Outreach Commission, Calgary Presbytery to
Alberta and Northwest Conference
41
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #3: SOCIAL JUSTICE CONVERSATION
TITLE: Social Justice Conversation
ORIGINATING BODY: Red Deer Presbytery, April 23, 2015
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Much of this work could be done by the Unit within its existing
budget, but there may be some expenses for resource sharing
and consultation, to be determined by the committee in
consultation with General Council Executive.
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
Significant staff resources would be required to support the
appropriate Unit or Committee in designing a consultation
process, developing tools for conversation, collating results and
preparing a report with recommendations.
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The Red Deer Presbytery (of Alberta and Northwest Conference) proposes that:
General Council direct the Church in Mission Unit (or other appropriate body) to engage the whole
church in a process of consultation, review and discernment about the social justice ministries and
public witness of the United Church of Canada, including addressing questions such as the following:
how the church most faithfully engages questions of social justice, its importance to our faithfulness,
the dangers and possible failures in this ministry, and what criteria, guidelines and principles might
help guide the church to do this ministry in ways that most effectively witness to God’s kingdom (kindom) and build up the body of Christ.
Background:
Work for social justice is often seen as one of the defining characteristic of the United Church of
Canada. It is an important part of our ethos, and strongly grounded in the biblical witness and our
Reformed and Methodist heritage.
At the same time, decisions on social justice issues made at various courts of the church often
generate controversy, both within the wider community and within the church. Controversy is not
always a bad thing, but people who fundamentally support the social justice ministry of the church
often have legitimate questions about such decisions, how they are made, what the church is
trying to do when it makes them, and whether there were different approaches that could have
resulted in more faithful outcomes. So it is important that social justice work be done with care
and that the principles on which the church engages this work be clear, transparent, widely
understood and carefully grounded in our theology and ethics.
This proposal is grounded in the conviction that it is important for the whole church to engage
important issues of political, economic and environmental justice. This is true for many reasons,
among which are the following:
a. justice is the effort to embody love in social form; a concern for economic, political and
environmental justice is one way in which we live out our call to love our neighbours;
b. issues of justice affect the well-being of people and ecosystems in profound ways;
c. economic, political and environmental issues have ethical and spiritual components which
need to be raised to consciousness and discussed in public;
d. the church is the guardian of ethical principles which need to be upheld in a public way;
e. the church’s role is to take on a prophetic role, opposing injustice and raising ethical and
spiritual issues that would otherwise be overlooked;
f. our political and economic systems often masquerade as “natural” and “inevitable” when they
are in fact human institutions which can be shaped differently;
g. solidarity with aboriginal peoples and other marginalized or oppressed groups is a natural
reflection of our faith story of God’s solidarity with such groups.
42
At the same time there are many failures which can lead the church to engage questions of social
justice poorly, of which our involvement in residential schools is perhaps the most tragic example.
Here are some failures that contribute to poor engagement:
a. Failing to recognize that we do not start from a neutral position but from a social location that
will influence our point of view
b. Failing to adequately distinguish between different levels of ethical decision making and to
clearly name what level we intend to comment on:
i. basic theological and ethical principles
ii. ideological convictions
iii. issues of social analysis
iv. “middle axioms” (broad policy objectives)
v. detailed policy decisions which often involve complex issues of expert analysis;
c. failing to fully consider the range of faithful perspectives on each of these levels
d. making a decision based on incomplete and one-sided information and failing to take into
account the range of informed opinion on a particular issue;
e. trying to take positions on too many issues with too little time, energy or resources to
adequately engage them;
f. failing to carefully consider the most appropriate action the church might take to address a
question;
g. failing to be clear about our role as a church;
h. failing to take the time to build consensus on an issue within the wider church and not just
within a meeting of a particular court;
i. assuming that a resolution at a Conference or General Council is a sufficient response
without follow-up with congregations and partners.
Some of these failures are fairly common and undermine the confidence and commitment of the
church membership to the work of social justice. It may be helpful to develop some widely shared
and commonly accepted guidelines that might help the church to engage important justice
questions in a healthier way. Some possible examples of such guidelines:
a. clearly articulating the theological and ethical principles which guide our engagement;
b. carefully distinguishing between core theological and ethical convictions and matters on
which Christians can legitimately disagree;
c. crafting policy decisions in language that positively states what we are advocating for, and
only rarely in negative language of opposition to specific policy directives;
d. carefully considering diverse points of view and the ethical and ideological positions which
underlie them;
e. trying to build consensus wherever possible – the majority vote of a church court often leaves
a minority feeling unheard and unrepresented;
f. inviting a broad constituency of the church to participate in decision-making whenever
possible, especially individuals with expertise in issues under consideration;
g. considering what level of the church is best equipped to address a particular issue and what
kind of response would be most helpful;
h. taking time to consider issues carefully, not being rushed to make a decision within the scope
of a single meeting;
i. being clear about our objectives on a particular issue (are we trying to provoke discussion, lift
up overlooked issues, warn against danger, resist an evil, support a marginalized group, or
something else?);
j. choose carefully the issues we need to engage – because our energy, time and ability to
carefully consider many issues is limited, and becoming more limited all the time, it may be
better to focus on a few key issues over the long term than to spread ourselves too thin;
k. doing the research to clearly name the issue and making sure we have a full understanding
of the range of informed opinion, recognizing that even experts often disagree about relevant
facts;
l. participating critically in partnerships and broad social movements;
m. maintaining a focus on grace – taking a stance without being overzealous or judgmental
towards those who see the issues differently – reminding ourselves that we are called to be
participants in God’s Kingdom (Kin-dom) but it is not a human creation.
43
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #4: CARING FOR PASTORAL RELATIONSHIPS
TITLE: Caring for Pastoral Relationships (a response to the
recommendations of the Comprehensive Review)
ORIGINATING BODY: Red Deer Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The Red Deer Presbytery proposes that:
In any new organizational model which may emerge from the Comprehensive Review, there be one
review process that includes both those responsible for ministers and those responsible for
communities of faith, and that, wherever possible, problems in pastoral relationships be approached
in ways that support, encourage and guide both the minister(s) and the community of faith.
Background:
In 2009, concerned about the stigma associated with the review process and the consequent
reluctance to use it, Red Deer Presbytery proposed that General Council replace the current sections
333 (Review of Pastoral Charges) and Section 363 (Review of Ministry Personnel) with a process in
which a review of the Pastoral Relationship would be the normal response of Presbyteries to crises in
pastoral relationships, where Dispute Resolution Facilitation has not been successful. The concern
was to make the process of review less stressful and more healing for congregations, Ministry
Personnel and Presbytery Pastoral Relations Committees. This proposal was referred by the General
Council to the General Secretary for action.
The recommendations of the Comprehensive Review team seem to move in the opposite direction by
vesting responsibility for oversight of congregations and ministry personnel in separate organizations.
This would mean that the governing body of a Region concerned with the oversight of a Community
of Faith and a College concerned with the discipline of a minister might approach the problem with
different biases, different information, and different strategies, further disrupting a fragile situation.
Ideally, oversight of ministry personnel and Communities of Faith would be undertaken by a single
organization dedicated to the health of Pastoral Relationships.
If the division of responsibilities between a College and a Region is adopted, however, it is therefore
important that there be clear structural relationships between these different organizations (for
example, there could be a representative of the College on the governing body of every Region.)
The financial implications of this are not clear, but it is our expectation that the costs of this proposal
would be lower than having parallel and unconnected processes by a College and a Region.
44
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #5: JUSTICE WITHIN THE NEW COMPENSATION MODEL
TITLE: Justice within the New Compensation Model
ORIGINATING BODY: St. Paul Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The St. Paul Presbytery proposes:
nd
That the 42 General Council (2015) addresses as a matter of urgency the justice issue caused by
the differences in pension that will arise because of the New Compensation Model; and
That the General Council seek to redress this situation as a matter of urgency.
Background:
The pension for ministry personnel is calculated at 140% of minimum salary. Under the old model of
compensation the pension of the ministry personnel would not have been dependent on the locale of
their ministry.
With the change to the New Compensation model the cost of living group in which the ministry has
been assigned will largely determine the quantity of pension that will be received upon retirement.
This means that those ministry personnel in smaller or rural contexts or in those with a lower cost of
living categorization will receive a lower pension for the same faithful service at the end of their
ministry. This means there will be an implicit disadvantage for ministry personnel to accept an
appointment or call in the rural context. Also this will negatively impact the ability of small and/or rural
pastoral charges and congregations to be competitive to attract and retain paid accountable ministry.
45
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #6: THE RURAL MINISTRY OF THE UCC
TITLE: The Rural Ministry of the UCC
ORIGINATING BODY: St. Paul Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The St. Paul Presbytery proposes:
nd
That the 42 General Council (2015) affirms the importance of the rural ministry of the United Church
of Canada; and
That the General Council appoints a Task group to consider and make recommendations about the
future mission and ministry of the rural ministry of the church.
Background:
Until now the majority of the membership of the United Church has existed in the context of the
smaller and often times, rural churches. Many of these congregations continue to survive financially
through the ongoing fund raising activities of the members. Many of these congregations are barely
getting by at the current levels of assessment and the ability to expand capacity is minimal.
The possibility exists that the rural churches will be negatively impacted by the proposed changes
being considered. However, the Presbytery wishes that it be reaffirmed that the church has a
necessary mission to the rural context of Canada.
While it has been envisioned that some of the small rural churches may cease to exist in the next few
years the belief that their value for the nurturing of members and for the mission of the church overall
cannot be overlooked. Any attempt to force the closure of these churches or to write them off as
dying communities should be strenuously resisted.
46
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #7: MEMBERSHIP OF THE UCW IN THE GENERAL COUNCIL
TITLE: Membership of the UCW in the General Council
ORIGINATING BODY: St. Paul Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The St. Paul Presbytery proposes that:
nd
The 42 General Council (2015) appoints a representative from the national United Church Woman
as a voting member on the General Council Executive And subsequently to the Denominational
Council Executive.
Background:
The United Church Women have historically and currently provided significant contribution to the life
of The United Church of Canada.
The United Church Women have historically and currently provided significant financial contribution to
The United Church of Canada.
47
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #8: NUMBER OF REGIONAL COUNCILS
TITLE: Number of Regional Councils
ORIGINATING BODY: St. Paul Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The St. Paul Presbytery proposes that:
nd
The 42 General Council (2015) establishes not less than 30 (thirty) Regional Councils to be divided
equitably in order to replace the current structure of conferences and presbyteries with the
expectation that each Regional Council will have one full time paid staff to function in the role of
Executive Secretary and Personnel Minister.
Background:
The geography of the United Church of Canada being expansive creates logistical challenges and
regional identities.
It is the hope of St. Paul Presbytery that the regional council will assume the functions that are
currently done by our Presbyteries and Conferences
The Regional Council should be the body that can co-ordinate regional mission beyond the
communities of faith.
48
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #9: PROPOSED DENOMINATIONAL COUNCIL
TITLE: Organization and Responsibilities of Proposed Denominational Council
ORIGINATING BODY: St. Paul Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The St. Paul Presbytery proposes:
nd
That the 42 General Council (2015) amends the proposal for the establishment of Denominational
Council to include the following:
The membership of proposed Denominational Council be fixed at, at least 200 and not more
than 300 persons with ¾ of the membership made up of representatives from the Regional
Councils and the remaining be determined by the executive to ensure that minority concerns
in the church are represented at the Council;
That the functions of the Denominational Council include:
1. Oversight of the whole church
2. Develop ecumenical relations at the National level
3. Promote and encourage the mission of the Church on the national stage and through
partnerships with other social agencies.
4. Respond and offer a prophetic voice to matters of social concern at the national level.
5. The recruitment, training and discipline of Ministry Personnel
6. The theology of the church
7. Relationships with the world Church; and
That the membership of the Denominational Council be made up of equal number of lay members
and ministers.
Background:
The current proposal continues to concentrate the work of the Church at the national level. Given the
diversity of the Canadian context an effective approach to mission would be to empower regional
bodies to address and respond to the issues which address their specific context. The
Denominational Council should therefore be free to address issues of national concern.
The current proposal also creates a large and organisationally unwieldy body that would be
ineffective for decision making. Furthermore the costs overall to all of the church for such a body to
meet every three years would not amount to good stewardship of resources by the church. A smaller
body is needed. In addition to this the cost for smaller communities of faith to attend this gathering
would be prohibitive even with modest grants being offered to them.
Furthermore, experience shows that the voices of smaller groups and minorities are often times
drowned out when large gatherings occur unless intentional measures are put in place to ensure that
their voices are heard. Given the history of the Untied Church as a conciliar church, it seems
appropriate to maintain that style of governance. Our church has never made decisions through
referenda.
49
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #10: PROPOSED REGIONAL COUNCILS
TITLE: Organization and Responsibilities of Proposed Regional Councils
ORIGINATING BODY: St. Paul Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
The St. Paul Presbytery proposes that:
nd
The 42 General Council (2015) amends the proposal for the establishment of Regional Councils to
include the following:
That the memberships of the proposed Regional Councils include all ministry personnel, including
retired ministers, ministers retained on the roll and a representative from each faith community in the
region;
That the functions of the Regional Council include:
1. Oversight of Faith Communities in the region
2. Approval of call and appointments of ministers to the Faith communities in the Region and
matters of Pastoral Relations
3. Develop ecumenical relations within the region
4. Promote and encourage the mission of the Church in the region through the faith communities or
in collaboration with other social agencies
5. Respond and offer a prophetic voice to matters of social concern within the region
6. Elect representatives to the Denominational Council
7. Determine what structures and appointments will be needed to meet the particular realities within
the context of the region; and
That the Regional Councils shall meet annually and at each meeting of the Regional Council time
should be set aside for a meeting of ministry personnel for continuing education, accountability, and
fellowship.
Background:
The current proposal for the establishment of Regional Councils will disenfranchise those ministers who
are not in appointments within the church. Furthermore the current proposal places an undue burden on
smaller faith communities to finance the attendance of representatives to the Denominational Council.
The Presbytery believes that a more effective approach would be to allow for representation to the
Denominational Council to come from the regional bodies with the latter paying for their representatives.
The Presbytery believes that given the work done in many Conferences on the matter of Effective
Pastoral Relations over the past three years that the work of Pastoral Relations would be better done by
the regional bodies.
It is also the view of the Presbytery that the work of the church should not be focused at the
denominational level and that there must be a deliberate attempt made to divest some of the current
responsibilities of the General Council to the regional bodies to promote and further the work and mission
of the church in the regions to be established.
50
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #11: FUNDING MODEL I
TITLE: Funding Model I (Comprehensive Review #6)
ORIGINATING BODY: Foothills Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
nd
Foothills Presbytery proposes that: The 42 General Council 2015:
1. Utilize a funding model that distributes funds collected by assessments based on an
understanding that the majority of ministry is lived out within communities of faith, and that these
ministries are most effectively supported on a regional basis; and
2. Direct that a 10% tithe of the assessments support those regions that are less financially viable.
51
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #12: FUNDING MODEL II
TITLE: Funding Model II (Comprehensive Review #6)
ORIGINATING BODY: Foothills Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
nd
Foothills Presbytery proposes that: The 42 General Council 2015:
Commit to a funding model in which travel and other meeting-related costs are borne by the event,
rather than expecting communities of faith and/or attendees to bear these costs over and above
moneys submitted by assessments.
52
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #13: THREE COUNCIL MODEL
TITLE: Three Council Model (Comprehensive Review #3)
ORIGINATING BODY: Foothills Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS:
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
nd
Foothills Presbytery proposes that: The 42 General Council 2015:
Support the model of Governance proposed by the Maritime Conference in their document, “Alternate
Model of Governance”.
Background:
The following is a link to the Maritime Conference website, where a copy of the “Alternate Model of
Governance” document is available.
http://marconf.ca/44402-comprehensive-review-task-group-report/
53
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #14: CHILD WELL-BEING INDEX
TITLE: Child Well-Being Index
ORIGINATING BODY: Alberta and Northwest Conference United Church Women
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS: Unknown
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS: Unknown
SOURCE OF FUNDING: N/A
Alberta and Northwest Conference United Church Women propose that:
On behalf of The United Church of Canada, the Moderator and the General Secretary promote the
adoption of a national Child Well-being Index. This can be achieved by writing to the Prime Minister,
each Premier, the whole church and the national media demanding immediate action for children.
Background:
“What father among you would hand his son a stone when he asked for bread? Or hand
him a snake instead of a fish? Or hand him a scorpion if he asked for an egg? If you then
who are evil know how to give your children what is good, how much more will the
heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”
(Luke 11 – 11-13 Jerusalem Bible/Readers’ Edition)
6. All children have the right to good health and good quality health care. All children should have
1
clean water, nutritious food and a clean environment so they can stay healthy.
7. All children have the right to a good quality education and should be encouraged to go to school
2
to the highest level they can. The purpose of an education is to develop every child’s
3
personality, talents and mental and physical abilities.
8. The government has a responsibility to make sure children’s rights are protected. Governments
must help families protect the rights of children and provide an environment where children can
4
grow and reach their full potential.
9. In Alberta alone, 143,200 children lived below the Low Income Measure in 2012. This represents
16.2 per cent of all Alberta children. Compared to 16.4 per cent in 1989, there has been no
5
significant positive change.
10. In 2012, the ruling Conservation Party promised Albertans to eliminate child poverty by 2017.
This is far from reality.
We challenge all levels of Canadian government to implement a child-specific index to measure
the effectiveness of programs aimed to improve the well-being of all our children.
6
Child Well-being Index
All children have a right to:
11. three meals a day based on the most recent Canada Food Guide.
12. adequate, affordable, safe housing.
13. enough clothes for different seasons (both new and second-hand) a minimum of 2 pairs of wellfitting shoes and a pair of winter boots.
14. preventative and curative physical and mental health services including:
 child mental health professionals
 annual medical check-up
 dental and vision care and required prescriptions
 adequate rest and play.
15. relationships which nurture each child’s spirit in fulfilling the need for:
 safety at home, at school or daycare and in his or her neighborhood
 consistent and predictable love and support.
54
16. safe, high quality, affordable daycare and drop-in day care.
17. age-appropriate books, an internet connection, indoor games and educational toys suitable for
the child’s age and knowledge level and a quiet, bright place to study.
18. a quality education, where each child is encouraged to reach his or her full potential.
19. free public transportation in urban areas.
20. regular involvement in:
 organized, age-appropriate physical activities both indoors and outdoors
 the fine arts
 school and community outings and wilderness experiences.
This Proposal was developed in collaboration with the Canadian Federation of University Women (Lethbridge
and District Chapter).
It takes the whole community to raise a child.
Footnotes:
7 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, signed by Canada in 1989 Article 24.
8 Article 28
9 Article 29
10 Article 4
11 No Change: After 25 years of Promises, it is Time to Eliminate Child Poverty November 2014
Edmonton Social Planning Council, Alberta College of Social Workers and Public Interest Alberta
th
(25 anniversary of the all-party House of Commons promise to eliminate child poverty in Canada.)
12 The Child Wellbeing Index was created in Alberta and was adapted and modelled in part using:
 the UNICEF 14-Item Child Specific Deprivation Index. (Innocenti Research Centre, 2012)
 the All You Need Is? Measuring Children's Perceptions and Experiences of Deprivation
(Barnardos and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul based on research conducted by the Children’s
Research Centre, Trinity College Dublin, 2011)
 Developing a Deprivation Index: The Research Process (Matern, Mendelson and Oliphant…The
story of the development of the Ontario Deprivation Index, 2009)
55
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #15: REPRESENTATION OF THE UCW ON COUNCILS
TITLE: Comprehensive Review, United in God’s Work
Representation of the United Church Women on Councils
ORIGINATING BODY: Alberta and Northwest Conference United Church Women
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS: Cost of attending meetings
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS: None
The Alberta and Northwest Conference United Church proposes that
nd
The 42 General Council:
Ensure that, in the Three Council Model proposed by United in God’s Work, provision is made for
the full voting participation of the representative of the United Church Women on the Regional
and Denominational Councils and their Executives.
Background:
The involvement of a representative of the United Church Women (UCW) in The United Church of
Canada’s current structure is not consistent. Some Presbyteries and Conferences and their
Executives do include a representative as a full voting member while others, including the
General Council Executive, only permit these representatives to serve as corresponding (nonvoting) members.
In 1960 in Edmonton, the United Church General Council approved the uniting of the Woman’s
Association (WA) and Woman’s Missionary Society (WMS) to form a new organization for the
women to “share in a much more meaningful way in the work of the church within the
Congregation, Presbytery, Conference and in various boards of the church under the General
1
Council.”
The proposals from United in God’s Work offer an opportunity to address this inconsistency across
the church and to recognize the vital role that the (UCW) play in the denomination by ensuring
that a representative is able to participate fully in the Regional and Denominational Councils and
their Executives.
The United Church Women have traditionally supported their congregations fulfilling their purpose by
expressing their loyalty and devotion to Jesus Christ in Christian witness, study, fellowship and
service. It is recognized by many, that without the devotion and commitment of the UCW many
congregations would cease to exist long ago. It should also be noted that the commitment to the
wider work of our church through support of the Mission and Service (M&S) Fund is evident as in
2014 alone, $1,462,840 was donated to M&S by the UCW throughout Canada.
Including a representative of the (UCW) as a full voting member on these Councils will allow for the
wisdom and work of the UCW to inform and guide the Councils. It will also provide a link between
a key population and network and the governance structure.
Footnote:
1. Ordinary Heroes – Celebrating United Church Women, 2012, page 21
56
PROPOSAL TO GENERAL COUNCIL #16: GRASS ROOTS STIMULUS
TITLE: Grass Roots Stimulus
ORIGINATING BODY: Northern Lights Presbytery
FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS: Undetermined Cost Saving
STAFFING IMPLICATIONS: To Be Determined
SOURCE OF FUNDING: Present Resources
Northern Lights Presbytery proposes that:
nd
The 42 General Council (2015) consider the following possible realignment of denominational
resources as an alternative to that detailed in the document, “United in God's Work”. The end goal of
our alternative proposal is to redirect the resources of the whole church in such a fashion as to
promote, invigorate, enliven, and challenge congregations and faith communities at the local level.
Step 1: Regroup congregations and ministries into presbyteries large enough to afford an executive
presbyter, a secretary/treasurer, and an itinerant supervising minister.
Step 2: Devolve the current duties which now belong to the Conferences into the Presbyteries, and
eliminate the Conferences.
Step 3: Have a College of Ministers for admissions and accreditation processes. The College would
also run the formal hearings when needed. However the presbytery/regional body would handle
basic oversight, first level complaints processes, and pastoral relations work around calls and
appointments.
Background:
Although we appreciate the work that went into “United in God's Work”, and are, indeed, grateful for
the stimulus it has provided for much needed discussion and re-imagining as we try to determine the
best way in our present context to be faithful, Spirit-led disciples of God in Christ, we fear that, if
implemented, remote and rural faith communities will be the ones who most acutely will bear the
brunt of proposed structural changes and cost cutting. We also fear that an Association of Ministers
may not function nearly as well as a presbytery. Finally, in order to provide quality control over the
admission of candidates and their final approval for entry into United Church ministry, it might be
simpler to have a national commission of capable persons named by General Council. Again, these
persons would not need to live in one particular place, but rather could live among the people, and
therefore be aware of the needs for ministry in a great variety of contexts.
We recognize there is a need to cut spending. We believe this proposal addresses challenges related
to spending and respectful use of volunteer time within our local communities. We also believe that
most presbytery/regional bodies would be able to function with 1 to 2 FTE paid positions, depending
on geography and population.
57
SECTION D
Reports to Alberta and Northwest Conference
Title
President’s Report
Report of the Executive Secretary
General Council Executive Representative
Education and Students
In Contact Editorial Board
Intercultural Ministry
Conference Interview Board
Leadership Resource Development Committee
2015-2016 Committee Membership Report
Living into Right Relations Committee
Pastoral Relationships Committee/Interim Ministry Committee
Designated Lay Ministry Program
Youth Forum at the 42
nd
General Council - Summary
Conference United Church Women
Coronation Presbytery
Northern Lights Presbytery
Red Deer Presbytery
South Alberta Presbytery
St. Paul Presbytery
Yellowhead Presbytery
Incorporated Ministries
Rundle’s Mission Society
Student Bursary Fund Society
Review of 2014 Mission and Service Giving
Financial Development Officer
Centre for Christian Studies
St. Andrew’s College
58
President’s Report
Jesus came that we may have life, and have it abundantly.
I remember distinctly feeling called to be the President of Alberta and Northwest Conference in
1988 when I attended its full meeting as a youth delegate. A dream has come true and it was
full of the challenges and joys and mileage - just as I had dreamt! Thank you for this amazing
opportunity to serve, lead and be led by you, the people of this amazing church!
As many of you have noticed the only thing I love more than chairing a meeting is leading
worship. I had the honour to do both with your Conference Executive, on the phone and in
person. They took their time and prayerfully considered decisions. They used all their
resources of energy, faith and intellect to share with one another their hopes and opinions about
this Conference’s present and future.
As we worked through our goals of improving communication, deepening faith and freeing up
resources for ministry in many locales of our church, we came to honour those who led in other
areas of our church – who also had to prayerfully make decisions. We were mindful of your
Presbyteries and their Executives/Councils, our Conference committees, Naramata Center’s
leaders and our camp and colleges Boards. We prayed with and for our General Council
Executive and its committees along with the Comprehensive Review Task Group. We strove to
listen, respond and respect all the work we as church are doing to free the Spirit moving in our
communities.
I was able to be your ear and voice at gatherings, proud to wear our common President’s stole
at three Truth and Reconciliation events, three General Council gatherings with other Presidents
and leading Elders and at Rendezvous 2014. I also was able to plan and participate in
Celebration of Ministry services and our snowy but spiritual Glad and Generous Hearts. I am
grateful for the congregation of St Peter’s Ecumenical Church here in Slave Lake for their
blessing of my journeys and their sustaining love.
I am in the midst of my visits to the southern half of our Conference and, God willing, will have
seen all the Presbyteries in action before our May meeting. It has been an honour to share
resurrection reflections with you, to watch and listen to your services, and to strive to keep
Conference and Presbyteries singing in harmony.
You have all infused me with courage and faith, enough to reach for another childhood dream: a
move to Quebec City in 2015. I go to this adventure inspired by your ministry in our church and
my belief that we shall continue to be One in Christ!
Go in peace, to love and serve God.
“Now to God who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than
all we can ask or imagine, yes, to God be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all
generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3: 20-21)
Leigh Sinclair,
President
59
Report of the Executive Secretary
Greetings to the delegates and guests of the 84th Meeting of Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Our theme is The Treasure Within and Among Us. This is a time to celebrate who and
whose we are in faith and to look to a future as yet unknown. It is an exciting and a
challenging time.
We welcome our General Council Guest, Erik Mathiesen, who is the Chief Financial Officer of
the United Church. Erik looks forward to meeting with delegates in a variety of ways during
the meeting. You can learn more about Erik in the biography included in the Agenda Book.
You will see the details of the work of the Conference in the reports of the Conference
Committees included in your Agenda Book. I also commend, to your careful reading, the
reports of each of the nine Presbyteries in our Conference and of the institutions related to
Alberta and Northwest Conference. Your careful attention to these reports will give you a
view of the scope of the work of the church in our Conference, its Presbyteries and
Congregations and special ministries as you prepare for our meeting.
In 2012, at the 83rd meeting, the Conference adopted a new governance and staffing model,
designed to tool the work of the Conference in a way that is faithful, vital and sustainable.
The Executive will present an evaluation report of the Mission in Transition Model for your
consideration.
Alberta and Northwest Conference is blessed to have a talented and committed staff with a
complement of 5.2 FTE which includes one (1) Personnel Minister; one (1) Executive
Secretary; a part-time (0.6 FTE) Archivist; a part-time Accountant (0.6 FTE) and two full-time
Administrative Support staff for a total of six (6) staff members.
As the church prepares for the 42nd Meeting of the General Council called to meet in Corner
Brook, NL August 8-15, 2015, our Conference will elect 29 commissioners. We will also
elect a President who will take office at the rise of Conference on May 31; a President-Elect
who will become President at the Celebration of Ministry Event in 2017; and an Ordered
Representative to the Executive of the General Council. Please give prayerful consideration
of prospective candidates to serve our church in these important ministries.
I look forward to our meeting together in Slave Lake in May and wish all of you a safe journey to
our gathering.
May God’s blessings abound among us.
Yours faithfully,
Rev. Lynn Maki
Executive Secretary
60
Report of the Rev. Bob Mutlow – Order of Ministry Representative to
General Council Executive, The United Church of Canada
Facing a future with less - less finances, less staff and fewer volunteers and yet living out the vision of
Micah 6.8 “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk
humbly with your God?” became the unofficial theme of the March 2015 General Council Executive
meeting. Normally General Council Executive appointments are for six years alternating with the lay
representative, but I was elected by Conference Executive following the 2012 General Council when
Rev. Armand Houle moved to BC Conference. It was a privilege to connect with Moderator Gary
Paterson, General Secretary Nora Sanders and the group from coast to coast to coast but it was a
big learning curve since I hadn’t attended the 2012 General Council meeting and the follow up that
was given to the Executive for further work. What made it easier for me was that I was elected in
2009 by Conference to the Permanent Committee for Mission and Ministry so at least I knew my way
around Church House, some of the staff and global and local mission challenges.
The Comprehensive Review became the key focus of our work. The committee faced a mammoth task
of addressing the reality that we could not go on as we have been doing and we needed a new shape
for changed times. Other key pieces of work were also brought to our attention including the
following proposals for General Council action:






One Order of Ministry – adopted as presented in the report
Towards a New Model of Membership – Professing Members & Associate Members
LGBTTQ Living Apology – Lesbian Gay Bi-sexual Transsexual Transgender Queer
Extension of Unsettling Goods Campaign and follow up with Jewish dialogue
Physician Assisted Dying – Theology & Faith Committee are to present a way forward on this
topic as well as preparing a “Theology of Disability”
Church Relations - Mission and Ministry with Migrant churches and Full Communion with the
Presbyterian Church in Korea and the United Church of Christ.
Finances are an ongoing concern – ten million dollars needs to be removed from the budget by 2018.
The Executive approved in principle a motion directing the General Secretary to arrange for a
balanced budget by 2018 so that decisions can be implemented over the next three years
independent of what the General Council decides regarding the Comprehensive review.
Aboriginal Cultural Divide – The speaker for the All Native Circle was part of our table group. She
shared how hard it was for her and new members to physically find their way to the meetings and to
be heard in a very different style than they are used to in their meetings. Aboriginal ministers are in
short supply and there is a huge need for church building upgrades.
Nominations – I served on the Nominations Committee and was impressed by the number of applicants
who were interested in serving on the wider church task groups, particularly the Faith and Worship
Committee. If you are interested in any of these areas watch the General Council website for
postings of positions.
Voice for Alberta and the North West – proposals may be coming to General Council demanding that
the church disinvest in fossil fuels as part of the debate on the Environment. It will be important for
the next Order of Ministry representative to be a voice calling on the church to remember that
livelihoods are on the line – this is a time for dialogue, for thinking “grey” in a complex and emotional
subject as we address environmental concerns.
Moderator Gary Paterson, a lover of poetry, presented us with a farewell gift of Good Poems compiled by
Garrison Keillor with a quote from the final poem in the book, “God, who thinks about poetry all the
time, breathes happily as He repeats to Himself: There are fish in the net, lots of fish this time in the
net of the heart.” (Linda Gregg)
Thank you for the opportunity to be part of the fish in the net, fishing on the other side, serving this United
Church of ours, which is as “Canadian as hockey night in Canada.”
Respectfully submitted, (Rev.) Bob Mutlow
61
Alberta and Northwest Conference
Education and Students Committee
Committee:
Chairperson: Liz Richards
Presbytery Representatives: Christopher New (Edmonton Presbytery), Deborah Laing
(Red Deer Presbytery), Irene Milton (Foothills Presbytery),
Ralph Shopland (Northern Lights Presbytery), Sarah Fanning (Calgary Presbytery), Sally
Boyle (Yellowhead Presbytery), Sarah Wallace (South Alberta Presbytery), Paul DuVal
(St. Paul Presbytery), and Robin King (Coronation Presbytery)
Diaconal Ministry Representative: Carolynne Bouey Shank
St. Andrews College Representative: Piotr Strzelecki
Our committee met once in a face-to-face meeting in November at the time of the final
interviews of candidates prepared for ordination and commissioning in May 2015. We met twice
by telephone conference call.
We welcomed Irene Milton as representative from Foothills Presbytery to the committee and this
now fills our mandate for one representative from each Presbytery Education and Students
Committee.
We have a total of 17 people in preparation for ministry:
Candidates for Ordained Ministry - 9
Candidates for Diaconal Ministry - 6
Applicants for Designated Lay Ministry - 2
There are several people in discernment at this time.
We are pleased to recommend Deanna Cox and Greg Powell for ordination, and Kelley Warner
for commissioning at this Meeting of Alberta and Northwest Conference.
Our committee would like to thank all those people who are or have been serving on
discernment committees, lay support committees, and those who are offering educational
supervision as well as the congregations who are offering experience placement or internship
opportunities for the students. These are very valuable ministries and integral parts of the
education and formation of ministry leadership.
We thank Earl Reaburn and Melanie Funk from the Conference staff for all the effort they have
each put into the work of the Education and Students Committee this year. I thank each of the
Presbytery Representatives and other members of the committee for their diligent work. It has
been a pleasure working with all of you.
Respectfully submitted,
Liz Richards
62
Report of “In Contact” Editorial Board to the
84th Conference Meeting
Alberta and Northwest Conference
The United Church of Canada, May 28 – 31, 2015 Slave Lake, Alberta
The purpose of “In Contact” is to share the news of the Church’s life, work, programs, policies,
and people with Observer readers across Alberta and Northwest conference. It is published
five times a year as a supplement to The United Church Observer.
The committee of Alex Oliver, Chairperson; Gerry Dyck, Past Chairperson; Gordon Hunter,
Secretary; Liz Goddard, Editor; and Austin Fennell meets in January, March, May,
September, and November at Gaetz Memorial United Church in Red Deer. It may have one
or two teleconferencing meetings in lieu of a Red Deer meeting.
This committee is confident that it is doing God’s work by providing a valuable service to Alberta
and Northwest Conference and to the readership of the United Church of Canada in Alberta.
The team takes great pride in having open and diverse discussions on topics it deems
important to the Alberta United Church readership. It is a pleasure to receive stories from the
grassroots – the people who work hard to keep their congregations going strong. As well,
we are blessed to receive reports from regular contributors. Topics balance the varied
geographical regions of Alberta, social issues, gender themes, and seasonal issues.
“In Contact” is constantly looking for new stories and ways to encourage more participation from
its readers. To that end the committee recently has instituted an opinion section with hopes
that it will encourage more contributors.
In addition, Liz Goddard has taken the initiative to set up a blog at no cost to the “In Contact”
budget on the ANW Conference web site; and it has received over 51,000 page viewings.
“In Contact” encourages the readers of this report and others to contribute their own stories by
sending them to [email protected] .
The group has worked in the past with a $17,000 budget that is divided up as follows:
Committee Costs - $3,000.00; Typesetting - $2,900.00; Observer production - $4,950.00;
and Editor’s Honourarium - $6,150.00.
Respectfully submitted by Alex Oliver, Chairperson, “In Contact”
63
Report of the Intercultural Ministry Standing Committee
Alberta and Northwest Conference Meeting, May 2015
A woman came and fell at his feet. “Help me, sir!” she said. Jesus answered, “It isn't right to
take the children's food and throw it to the dogs. “That's true sir” she answered, yet even the
dogs eat leftovers that fall from their masters” table.” So Jesus answered her, "You are a
woman of great faith! What you want will be done for you,” and at that very moment her
daughter was healed. (Matthew 15: 27-28)
rd
As I reflect on the Intercultural Ministry Standing Committee’s journey since the 83 Conference Meeting
in Calgary, this passage comes to mind. I was given this passage when I just arrived in Canada. Not long
after, I went to one of the interviews during the preparation for the order of ministry. I did not think I
understood what this woman had to deal with, with many challenges in her life as a gentile, an outsider
and a devastating need for help. It is still a hard passage for me because I have still not fully felt her
difficulties and challenges even though I have been living as an immigrant and ethnic minority here in
Canada. Though, I can relate to her struggles and the difficulties much deeper than before; how
vulnerable she felt when she had asked for help and acceptance, yet she pushed through all of these
difficulties, to do what she felt necessary for her daughter's healing. How many challenges and barriers
that this woman, a foreigner, was dealing with. It must have been difficult for her to approach Jesus.
There were many societal issues for her to deal with, along with her own weaknesses and vulnerabilities,
the fact that she was a woman and a gentile. She has much more to deal with yet to come.
The meaning in spiritual terms of the work we do
Since I took on the role of chairing the Intercultural Ministry Standing Committee of Alberta and Northwest
Conference, I have been shared this woman’s role, and her faith and challenges with the committee.
We, as ethnic groups, and also the wider non ethnic groups, are trying to discern how to become
more fully human through intercultural living. Our motto is to Be loving, accepting and respectful of
all others.
I strongly believe that this is the core value and the meaning in spiritual terms of the intercultural work that
we do in ministry. And It is about finding life – a fullness of life among us all.
It is about overcoming the barriers that prevent others and ourselves from knowing that wholeness that
comes from God.
The Canaanite woman did not feel right about the way that those in Israel made her feel like an outsider.
Jesus recognized this and said to her, great is your faith. God is life, and goodness and God is the
source of all healing. Grace is yours.
What were our significant accomplishments?
The IM Standing Committee has planned for the triennium with events based on its purpose of the last
two years.
First Year, 2013: The purpose of the committee mission and task was to focus on community building,
sharing the realities of ethnic congregations and persons in our Conference. The plans were to hold
congregational visitations to the ethnic churches in the spring, and the EM Annual Meeting and Con.
Ed. in May. Both events were well received as planned. Four congregational visitations were
completed by members of the committee and one church was missed. The outcome from this work
was that we got to know the ethnic churches better and discovered where they were in their realities,
joys and concerns. We also strongly celebrated the leaders of the congregations so that they would
feel welcomed and encouraged.
The Continuing Education and Ethnic Ministry Annual Meeting were held in May in Edmonton and the
theme was “Creating Space for the Ethnic Minority Congregations in the Intercultural Landscape.”
The purpose of this event was to provide a space for ethnic congregations to share their stories and
learnings in courageous conversations. We all struggle with racism and racial discrimination in a
diverse culture and it’s difficult to share our own experiences.
Second Year, 2014: The action plan was to focus on faith formation and education in the intercultural
church. There were two events that offered the opportunity to members of the congregations in both
the ethnic and wider United Churches, to learn and gain a deeper understanding about intercultural
ministry in the UCC context and to know where we are in this ministry of faith and action.
64
Educational, Spiritual Formation of the Intercultural Ministry Annual Meeting was held in May for 3 days at
Star of the North Retreat Centre in St. Albert. The theme was “One Root, Many Branches”. The
facilitators were Lois Huey-Heck and Barry Vall, Spiritual Directors from Jubilee Associates. There
were 18 participants including members of the committee. The event included community building,
Vespers, Meditations and spiritual mindfulness practice, breath exercise and walking meditation, as
well as many other spiritual exercises to help us understand who we are in different areas of cultural
living. We also learned how to nurture people who serve on the ethnic ministry committee for their
spiritual growth.
The Intercultural Event with the Moderator in October: There were 100 people for dinner and 120 people
for the program at this event. Four ethnic-specific congregations: Korean, Chinese, and Ghanaian,
were involved and many others as well as United Church representatives gathered. We listened to
ethnic music and shared cultural experiences. Everyone offered their leadership and participated
graciously. The Moderator’s presentation was so helpful. He shared his and the UCC dreams and
hopes and also challenged the folks to work toward, “Continuing the Intercultural journey” even
though it is a hard task. It was a beautiful gathering with many colours, sounds, questions, food and
smiles and an open invitation to public dialogue and cultural sharing.
Education and Information: The committee took the opportunity to present a session on “Intercultural
Ministry” in the Edmonton Presbytery. Four of the members from our committee; Sandy Ferguson,
Kay Quon, Geoffrey Wilfong-Pritchard, and I were presenters. It was good to introduce the United
Church hopes and direction towards becoming an intercultural church.
The current emphases and priorities are
This is the third year of our committee’s planning. The emphasis for this year is to focus on deepening the
understanding of what it truly means to accept intercultural living in the United Church. This will be
done through public events and through individuals as well as the church as we strive to build
relationships.
The United Church of Canada, to which we belong, has a great vision and desire for God's dream in this
world and in this nation. Since the United Church was formed, we have been experiencing that the
United Church has a dream to proclaim as our ethos and belief, justice and love for all on earth.
The United Church has established a mission that is ongoing and must be supported and nurtured. The
needs of ethnic people in this church are different from the mainline-stream, due to language, culture,
and theology. Most of our committee members have been living with this fact and reality in the UCC
and now we continue to walk this journey. We know that many churches are suffering due to decline
the memberships and lack of energy is on-going. We as committee trust that we can do contribute
and and able to bring different views and values in diverse human forms and beauty so that we both
live more fully as human being as Jesus lives fullness of life.
The vision that we are exploring this year is to focus on connecting, accepting and belonging.
- Continue to support ethnic congregational needs and care for the clergy, including migrant
churches in this region.
- To create a space for all to come and learn about other cultures, meet new faces and learn about
intercultural awareness from an intercultural perspective. A public event will be held in October,
2015.
- Continue meet the people and leaders of the faith community to build friendships in diverse
groups.
- Try to recruit new committee members
On behalf of the Intercultural Ministry Standing Committee, I express my sincere thanks and appreciation
to the ethnic congregations, leaders and members who have shared their time, love and gifts to get
this ministry started. I would like to give a special thank you to Lynn Maki, the Executive Secretary:
she has been a huge support to this committee. I also want to thank Kathy Jackson who is always
there for us. I want to warmly thank all of our committee members, and especially Kathy Yamashita,
Secretary. Her commitment is so beautiful.
With Many thanks and Blessings
Respectfully Submitted,
Yoon-Ok Shin Kang, Chairperson, Intercultural Ministry Standing Committee
65
CONFERENCE INTERVIEW BOARD ANNUAL REPORT
O Lord, you have searched me and you know me,
You are familiar with all my ways.
Psalm 139
As I begin this summary report of our work in 2014, I am reminded of the words of the Psalmist,
written thousands of years ago, but so timely for our work as the Conference Interview Board
today. We cannot know, as God does, the hearts of those candidates we interview, but we
always invite God to be a part of our work so that we are able to call on the spirit of God to
guide us in our task of discernment.
As members of the Conference Interview Board, we are asked to thoughtfully and respectfully
discern the call to ministry of the candidates with whom we meet. We recognize each person as
a gift to the church and we say “thanks be to God” for them.
In 2014, we conducted only one interview session - on November 8. The candidates we met
with were:
Rev. John Crowdis, Candidate for Admission into Ordained Ministry from the Presbyterian
Church of Canada;
John Helps, Candidate for Diaconal Ministry; and
Marlene Britton-Walfall, Candidate for Admission into Diaconal Ministry from the Methodist
Church of the Caribbean and the Americas.
All candidates completed successful interviews.
The roster of interviewers who conduct this work on behalf of Alberta and Northwest Conference
is representative of the wide diversity of folk who call The United Church of Canada their
spiritual home. Diaconal ministers, ordained ministers, designated lay ministers and lay
members of the church come together for the interviews. There are twenty members on the
Board. In 2014, we bid adieu to a number of faithful members who were called to other work
within the church, including Rev. Marilyn Evans, Rev. Pamela Milton, Rev. Julia Kimmett and
Betsy Young, our Secretary. We give grateful thanks for their work among us.
With the retirement of Betsy Young, we have invited Elaine Taylor-Kerr to serve as the Secretary
of the Board. Elaine has embraced this task with enthusiasm and skill. Thank you, Elaine! As
well, our work as a Board is conducted more efficiently and effectively because of two dedicated
people in the Conference Office: Earl Reaburn, our Conference Personnel Minister, and
Melanie Funk, Administrative Assistant: Personnel. Earl and Melanie ensure that all the
paperwork necessary for us to conduct our interviews is in order and readily available to us. As
well, Earl regularly conducts training seminars for Board members to ensure that we, too, are on
a learning curve, just as those who are being interviewed.
In closing, may I offer grateful thanks for the diligent and faithful work of the Conference
Interview Board team in 2014. Alberta and Northwest Conference is well served by you in this
work.
Respectfully submitted,
Rev. Linda Hunter, Chairperson
66
Leadership Resource Development Committee
Report to Conference May 2015
This accountability report is framed around the name of the Committee.
Leadership - The committee’s mandate is to ensure that people are in place taking leadership in
the standing and ad hoc committees of the Conference - committees that promote the goals
of the Conference. It stays informed of and makes recommendations to changes to policy
that affect the skills and gifts needed for membership on a particular committee.
Resource - People resources have been recruited to serve the Conference. In 2013 and 2014
approximately twenty-two people have responded and agreed to serve on committees,
boards or to other assignments. About half of these people are not new appointments but
persons who have agreed to extend their membership on a particular committee. In 2013
Leadership Resource Development Committee (LRDC) had the privilege and difficult task of
selecting five persons in the over-40 age category to attend the Moderator’s Pilgrimage to
Green Belt.
Development - LRDC is the group responsible for monitoring the guidelines for and the use of
the Learning Grant program. It encourages the development of up to date committee terms
of reference and reviews the conference policy and procedures on committee membership.
At a recent meeting the committee recommended to the Conference Executive a policy for
naming “elders” to a standing committee.
Committee - LRDC needs to recruit members for its own work from the central and southern
regions to balance our membership.” Who you know” is very important in this business. We
have met face to face three times in the triennium and two to three times a year by
telephone conference. At each meeting we review the committee membership audit; brain
storm for possible members to committees needing or requesting members; and review
policy that has come to our attention through Conference staff or committee chairs. The
committee reports to the Conference Executive at each of its meetings.
The Committee is very grateful for the support and education provided by our Conference staff
support person, Office Coordinator, Kathy Jackson. Kathy has a knowledge of the
Conference and its people that is invaluable. We thank Lynn Maki and Earl Reaburn for
assisting the committee when their help was requested.
Respectfully submitted:
Martha Dawson on behalf of LRDC members Sally Boyle, Peter Chynoweth, Henriette Kelker,
Kathy Koehler, and Deborah Laing
67
Alberta and Northwest Conference
Proposed Committee Membership
2015-2016
This Report is based on information received in the Conference Office as of 11 May 2015.
Please report any changes to the Conference Office. Thank you.
CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE
President
President - Elect
Past - President
Executive Secretary
Conference UCW President
Intercultural Ministry
Living into Right Relations
Planning and Administration
Stewardship and Mission Education
Youth and Young Adults Ministry
Calgary Presbytery
Coronation Presbytery
Edmonton Presbytery
Foothills Presbytery
Northern Lights Presbytery
Red Deer Presbytery
South Alberta Presbytery
St. Paul Presbytery
Yellowhead Presbytery
OM Rep. to General Council Executive
Lay Rep. to General Council Executive
Recording Secretary
Vacant
Vacant
Sally Boyle
Lynn Maki
Barbara Davison
Yoon-Ok Shin Kang
James Ravenscroft/Linda Robinson
Sue Brodrick
Ellinor Townend
Vacant
John Den Hoed
Alan Richards
Evelyn Porter
Brenda Watt
Gord Waldie
Ruth Lumax
Ed Bardock
Stephen Sparks
Curtis Tufts
Vacant
Sue Brodrick
Kathy Jackson
STANDING COMMITTEES
Abuse Prevention and Education Committee (APEC)
Chairperson
Anna Constantin
Members
Alice Hanson
Shannon Mang
Greg Parker
Murray Speer
Melanie Weaver
Personnel Minister
Earl Reaburn
Appeals and Grants Committee
Chairperson
Jim Hillson
9 Presbytery Appeals and Grants/Mission Support Convenors
Executive Secretary
Lynn Maki
Conference Meeting Planning Committee
Chairperson
President
President - Elect
Past President
Theme Committee
Local Arrangements Committee
Facilities Coordinator
Business and Technology Committee
Youth/Children at Conference
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Vacant
Vacant
Vacant
Sally Boyle
Vacant
Vacant
Vacant
Vacant
Executive Secretary
Lynn Maki
Please note: positions on this Committee are filled as needed. There is no
Conference Meeting planned for 2015-2016.
Corporations Committee
Chairperson
Members:
Vacant
Lloyd Henderson
Louise Rogers
Education and Students Committee
Chairperson
Sarah Fanning
9 Presbytery Education and Students Convenors
St. Stephen’s Rep. (Corresponding)
Carol Loewen
St. Andrew’s Rep. (Corresponding)
Piotr Strzelecki
Personnel Minister
Earl Reaburn
Heritage Resources Committee
Chairperson
Secretary
Conference UCW Representative
Member
Heritage Cemeteries
Historical Society
Elders
Helen Reed
Vacant
Beverly Green
Pat Dyson
Vacant
Sheila Johnston
Oliver Seward
Gayle Simonson
Phyllis Verhaar
Jane Bowe McCarthy
Lynn Maki
Volunteers
Conference Archivist
Executive Secretary
In Contact Editorial Board
Chairperson
Members
Alex Oliver
Peter Chynoweth
Austin Fennell
Bob Fillier
Colleen McCluskey
Liz Webster Goddard
In Contact Editor
Intercultural Ministry Committee
Co-Chairpersons
Yoon-Ok Shin Kang
Kay Quon
Samson Cho
Kathy Yamashita
Jun-Hyok Chon
Sandy Ferguson
George Takashima
Lynn Maki
Past Chairperson
Secretary
Members
Elder
Executive Secretary
Committee on Internship and Educational Supervision (CIES)
Chairperson
Bev Brazier
Secretary
Vacant
Members
Mary Faith Blackburn
Ray Goodship
Donalee Williams
St. Andrew’s Rep. (Corresponding)
Lynn Bayne
Personnel Minister
Earl Reaburn
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Conference Interview Board
Chairperson
Linda Hunter
Secretary
Elaine Taylor-Kerr
Approximately 25 Interviewers named by Interview Board Chairperson
Personnel Minister
Earl Reaburn
Leadership Resource Development
Acting Chairperson
Past President
Members
Martha Dawson
Sally Boyle
Peter Chynoweth
Henriette Kelker
Kathy Koehler
Deborah Laing
Kathy Jackson
Staff Resource
Living into Right Relations
Co-Chairpersons
James Ravenscroft
Linda Robinson
Russ Burns
Gerry Dyck
Sandra Hayes-Gardner
Valerie Mintenko
Bill Phipps
Charles Wood
Charlene Burns
Cecile Fausak
Lynn Maki
Members
General Council Staff Resource
Executive Secretary
Pastoral Relationships Committee
Chairperson
Wayne Youngward
Secretary
Lloyd Henderson
Presbytery Pastoral Relations and Pastoral Oversight Convenors
Diaconal Representative
Barbara Lieurance
Personnel Minister
Earl Reaburn
Sub-Committee: Interim Ministry
Chairperson
Member
Wayne Youngward
Vacant
Planning and Administration Committee
Chairperson
Central Region
Northern Region
Southern Region
Appeals and Grants
Leadership Res. Dev. (Corresponding)
Conference Treasurer
Executive Secretary
Sue Brodrick
Vacant
Wayne Flewelling
Phyllis Greenslade
Linda Ervin
Jim Hillson
Martha Dawson
Shauna Scott
Lynn Maki
Stewardship and Mission Education Committee
Chairperson
Ellinor Townend
Secretary
Karen Gusek
Conference UCW Representative
Vacant
9 Presbytery Stewardship Convenors
GC Financial Development Officer
Kathryn Hofley
(Corresponding)
Event Planning (Corresponding)
Vacant
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Youth and Young Adults Ministry Committee (YAYAM)
Chairperson
Vacant
Members
Vacant
Youth Representative
Vacant
AD HOC COMMITTEES
At the Rise of Conference, there will be no active Ad Hoc Committees.
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Living into Right Relations Committee
The Living into Right Relations (LIRR) Committee is now a standing committee of Alberta and
Northwest Conference (ANWC). In addition, at our last Conference Meeting, we agreed that the
LIRR Committee should have representation on Conference Executive. In line with this, one of
the Co-Chairpersons regularly attends Executive meetings. Following the mandate of the
committee, we continue to explore ways to help pastoral charges and individuals nurture right
relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in our Conference and in the wider
church.
With the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) National Event scheduled for March 2014
in Edmonton, the focus of the Committee in 2013 and 2014 was discerning how best to take
part in, or assist with upcoming events around the TRC. Those events included: the community
hearing and public education event in Red Deer which included the final feast to commemorate
students who attended the Red Deer Industrial School, the TRC event in Whitehorse, and the
Edmonton Social Justice Institute with the theme “Truth and Reconciliation.” The committee had
representation at almost every Truth and Reconciliation hearing that happened in Alberta, in
addition to Red Deer, hearings taking place in Slave Lake, High Level, Hobbema (Maskwacis)
and Lethbridge. The Calgary event was postponed until November 2013 because of the severe
flooding in that region.
The LIRR Committee also promoted ways to engage congregations and communities between
the end of the scheduled hearings and the final event which in Edmonton. As part of the openspace process at the ANWC Mid-Triennium event in November 2013, LIRR offered input on
emerging issues like Idle No More and the Gateway pipeline, how we are church together in a
cross-cultural context, as well as offering the blanket exercise. Our Committee was also
successful in having February 2, 2014, declared Wisdom Sunday across the Conference, in
recognition of the Wisdom theme of the Alberta TRC national event. A package of resources
was prepared for each Presbytery to help them prepare for the TRC.
As part of the national event in Edmonton, the LIRR Committee worked with McDougall United
Church in planning a worship service for the morning of Sunday, March 20, 2014. The worship
service included drumming, traditional dancing, and reading from both the Christian and Cree
traditions. We were privileged to have Moderator Gary Patterson with us as our preacher.
In addition to this important focus on the TRC, the LIRR Committee was involved in a number of
other right relations initiatives.
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The committee met in May, 2013 at Rundle Mission, established in 1840 as a
gathering place for faith and fellowship, to reflect on the LIRR consultation paper,
discern how to continue living out the apology, and offer input into the 175 th
anniversary of Rundle Mission in 2015.
KAIROS hosted a number of training sessions on facilitating the Blanket
Exercise. A number of United Church people are now trained to offer this
workshop, including LIRR members.
Two of our committee members, Sandra Hayes-Gardiner and Carolyn Pogue
visited the church on the Morley reserve. They stayed for the service, had lunch
with the elders, and discussed the needs of the community and the recent flood.
72
More recently, in preparation for the closing ceremonies of the TRC in Ottawa from May 31June 3, 2015, and the ongoing need to continue living into right relations, the LIRR Committee is
encouraging each pastoral charge to designate at least two “witnesses” who will help lift up the
closing ceremonies locally and encourage ongoing solidarity activities and events. The
committee has developed a resource list of books, videos and documents to give congregations
and the public the tools to engage their members in reconciliation. These resources are
available on the Alberta Northwest Conference website:
http://albertanorthwestconference.ca/13655-ways-to-follow-up-on-the-truth-and-reconciliationcommission.
One of our major concerns is around truly balanced representation on the committee. Over a
number of meetings the question arose on how can we expand our circle so that all voices are
fully represented and heard. To that end we are inviting more Indigenous voices to part of the
committee by not only looking for representation from the different Presbyteries within the
Conference but looking at representation from the three Treaty Territories within the
Conference.
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Pastoral Relationships Committee Report, 2014
This was my first year as Chairperson for a relatively new committee.
Two years ago the Settlement Committee decided that, as settlements were becoming very
rare, that function was no longer needed. We also saw the value of having representatives
from each of the Presbyteries meet yearly to discuss issues in pastoral relations and
pastoral oversight. Hence, the Pastoral Relationships Committee was formed, with
permission from Conference Executive.
At our May, 2014, meeting in Innisfail, we shared our successes and growing edges in these
two areas, as well as considering issues in a variety of areas, such as the new
compensation model for ministers and the Fresh Start pilot project in southern Alberta.
We were also brought up-to-date on the Fresh Start pilot project in southern Alberta.
As Chairperson, I also participated in the Transfer and Settlement meeting. This took place by
Conference Call and on-line participation on April 5th. Across Canada, there were only four
ordinands seeking settlement; this was successfully organized on that Saturday.
Our committee is also responsible for a Newcomers’ Event, and a very successful one was held
at the Star of the North Retreat facility in St. Albert, from November 11-13. Using the title,
“Welcome to the Wild West: Alberta Latitudes and Attitudes”, we learned that “not all necks
are red” as we looked at the wide variety of communities and realities in Alberta-North West
Conference for those new to the area.
In 2015 our committee is planning to dedicate our annual meeting to an in-depth look at the
practice of pastoral oversight in the Conference.
Respectfully submitted,
Wayne Youngward.
74
Designated Lay Ministry Program
The Designated Lay Ministry Program continues to strive to fulfill its Educational Principles. The Program
is rooted in an experiential learning model that includes doing, reflection, theory/theology, analysis and
action. Learning happens not by the doing, but by both doing and reflecting on the doing.
The DLM Program is on the move. The program was part of the Calling Lakes Retreat Centre in Fort
Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan for a number of years. The first learning circle was held at Calling Lakes in
January 2010, and the last circle, in June 2014. At the closing of the Centre (in 2014), we said a sad
farewell and found a new home at St. Andrew’s Theological College, University of Saskatchewan,
Saskatoon. We were warmly welcomed by faculty, staff, and principal, Rev. Lorne Calvert.
Our program is under the capable leadership of the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Janzen-Ball, Director of the DLM
Program, assisted by 6 program leaders from across Canada, who contribute time as part of their work for
the wider church. Together, these leaders generously contribute at least 1600 hours to the Program.
The Designated Lay Ministry Program (DLM) is a three year work-study program that trains lay people for
paid accountable ministry within The United Church of Canada. At present there are 19 students from
most Conferences in the United Church. To date, 15 students have graduated (since the first graduation
in June 2012); and a total of 40 students have been, or currently are, part of the DLM Program, including
a global partner from Japan.
Students come from across the country and are engaged in ministry in a variety of contexts. Most DLM
students are second career people who are now in a position to engage in further theological education
and to continue to live out their call to ministry. Many students are in solo ministry in rural pastoral
charges. Students have created a warm and welcoming community at the learning circles and support
one another in between learning circles in a variety of ways.
Students direct their own learning in this adult education program. Each student develops her/his own
learning goals for each learning circle and for their ministry supervised learning site. The students also
are required to be in at least a half time appointed supervised learning site as well as complete
complementary university courses.
Students in the program take six intensive courses over the three years of the program. Learning circles
are 10 days long and take place in January and June each year. New students are admitted for each
learning circle. Pre-circle assignments and reading starts about two months before a circle. Post circle
assignments continue for about two months. Learning circle themes include: Living Diversity in
Community; Caring for Community; The Community’s Story; The Learning Community; Organizing
Community; and Leading in Community.
At the same time, students are in ministry learning sites, working at least 50% time, under supervision.
This gives students the opportunity to apply and integrate theory, theology and practical tips learned at
the learning circles. These learning sites also allow students to reflect on how their learnings from the
learning circles are supported, challenged and/or changed by the practice of ministry. Ministry learning
sites involve lay people of the congregation in a Lay Supervision Team.
Funding for the program is provided through a grant from the General Council (through the Mission and
Service Fund), and through student tuition. The support of generous contributors to the Mission and
Service Fund enables this theological education program to continue.
The DLM student community has taken on a life of its own over the years. Students offer support and
encouragement to one another before, during and after learning circles. Students speak highly of the
transformative effect of this pedagogical and formation model for ministry. The passionate commitment of
staff and of DLM Program Team members to student learning (through integration and creative
engagement with topics and ministry identity) contributes to this vitality. The integration of “soul and role”
(Parker Palmer) encouraged in this theological education/formation program for ministry in The United
Church of Canada continues to transform and enliven new ministers as well as staff and volunteers.
75
YOUTH FORUM AT THE 42ND GENERAL COUNCIL – SUMMARY
For those of you who are familiar with Youth Forum at General Council, the 2015 events
are very different from previous years. While still a program seeking to fully include those
between the ages 15–18 years in our General Council’s discernments and decisions this year
there are added components related to the Comprehensive Review tasks and proposals.1
In 2014, Alberta and Northwest Conference Executive elected three youth to be our
representatives to The Youth Forum Winter Gathering. (reports from our delegates are below).
It was an event comprised of up to five youth delegates from each of the thirteen Conferences
and leaders engaging together for four days with the policies, ethos, theology, polity, and
processes of The United Church of Canada and learn about the work coming to General
Council. 2 All the youth at this gathering elected from their midst 13 youth representing each
Conference to be our eyes and ears on The Summer Pilgrimage.
Julia Hessing will go as our representative to be employed by the General Council this
summer, and in partnership with the GO Project, to pilgrimage across the country to attend
United Church of Canada youth events, gatherings, camps, etc. to listen to the dreams and
needs of young people, and to confer about the recommendations of the Comprehensive
Review Task Group.3 The executive is recommending we recognize her work by adding to her
to our Commissioners to General Council so she may be part of the work of the Commissioners
during the following triennium.
Eden Middleton and Dominic Petti will also participate in the pilgrimage as well by to
helping coordinate, co-host, and meet with pilgrimage participants in gatherings in their regions
prior to General Council. They also hope to be our delegates to youth forum and will be briefed
by pilgrimage participants at General Council and engage in the court of the 42nd General
Council. The executive is recommending we recognize their work by adding to Eden Middleton
to our Commissioners of General Council and asking Dominic Petti to go to engage (as a notvoting member) in the out of court time programming for youth at the 42nd General Council. All
three can participate in an integration experience following General Council.
Thus at General Council: The 13 youth who were elected by these youth and young adults at
Youth Forum Winter Gathering (one per Conference) would become a Commissioners and
attend the meeting of the General Council and be part of the work of the Commissioners during
the following triennium. The 13 youth alternates (one per Conference) would also attend GC42
as Youth Forum Voting Commissioner, sharing their wisdom. In addition to these 26 youth, it is
requested that each conference select 1 additional to attend General Council as Youth Forum
Delegates with voice and no vote.
SUMMARY: The 42nd General Council will include at least 39 youth (3 from each
Conference) trained at this winter’s event. On our behalf it would include JULIA (as part
of the 13 youth elected as commissioners who will be in the summer pilgrimage); EDEN (as part
1
The proposal for Youth Forum at General Council 42 was approved by the General Council Executive at its meeting in November
2013. After further refinement and research, it was finally approved by the sub-Executive in January 2014.
2
The Youth Forum Winter Gathering was held February 13-16, 2015 at Five Oaks Retreat Centre in Paris, Ontario. During the
Youth Forum Winter Gathering, delegates engaged in experiential learning activities to help them become more aware of the current
structure of the church, how policies and proposals are developed and submitted, and how decisions are made by the General
Council. They also reflected deeply on the report of the Comprehensive Review Task Group.
3
Their summer employment will include training in listening and facilitation skills prior to the cross country pilgrimage, the meeting of
the General Council in Corner Brook, Newfoundland in August 2015, and an integration experience following General Council.
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of the 13 youth chosen as alternates, ready to be elected by their conferences as a
commissioner) and DOMINIC (as part of the 13 additional youth - each conference is
encouraged to select a third youth to attend Youth Forum and bring to General Council their
voice and wisdom (no vote).
Reports from our youth and young adult representatives who attended The 2015 Youth Forum
Winter Gathering
A few days away, nestled in the beautiful countryside of Ontario, close to 75 other United
Church youth and leaders (including our moderator!) and a weekend spent in fellowship,
worship, prayer and discernment. What could be better? I had the pleasure of being one of 3
youth from Alberta Northwest Conference to attend the Winter Gathering of Youth Forum this
past February in Paris Ontario. I’ll admit I was nervous when I stepped of the plane in Toronto
but the moment we started our first of many worship services I felt content and secure in
knowing that I belonged there. Having to choose a favourite moment is difficult because each
moment that comes to mind is so different and unique! The workshops that we were able to
participate ranged from forms of governance in our church, to what it really means to
“apologize.” There were many other learning and growing opportunities; for example, we had a
First Nations Elder, Matthew, spend the weekend with us and each morning we had the option
to sit with him by the fire and learn from his teachings. This is an experience I will remember for
a long time to come. I am also honoured to note that I have been chosen as the pilgrim for
ABNW for this summer’s cross-country pilgrimage, starting in Vancouver on July 4th and ending
at General Council in Newfoundland. It will be an amazing time of learning, growth and change.
To quote one of the leaders for our pilgrimage, James Aitchison...“the farther we wander, the
closer we are to home” I am excited to wander.
Respectfully submitted, Julia Heesing
I am part of a generation of interconnection and busyness unmatched by those who
come before us, caught up in the disasters of the world we’ve inherited, and often unheard in
our expressions. It seems that the perpetual state of the teenager is scared, and tired, and a
little bit lonely. Not at youth forum. Five Oaks was in many ways an immersion; for one
weekend, you are surrounded by a diversity of people from ocean to ocean, each vibrant and
passionate about the things you are passionate about. We came to Youth Forum full of a need
for change and expression and we were listened to. Dinner conversation stretched from our
home churches, to the nature of art, to how to survive a zombie apocalypse. We got up early to
listen to the wisdom of our Mohawk elder, and continued to soak in wisdom as the day
continued. Over the course of the weekend, we touched on different methods of outreach, safe
communities, and learned more about UC’s internal affairs. In short, we soaked up a wealth of
knowledge to take home and utilize. We were surrounded by the resources and the knowledge
to take our passions and act. During worship, we listened to Gary Paterson preach, heard his
poetry and his knowledge. During one of his sermons, he shared a video with us, an
interpretation of the woman at the well. She spoke about how Jesus saw her, and put voice to
the phrase that would become our mantra for the weekend; to be seen is to be known, and to be
known is to be loved. When our emotional highs needed consoling, we would repeat these
words to each other. I see you. I know you. I love you. In the end, that was the magic of youth
forum. We saw each other for who we were, and loved each other for that. We were seen in all
of our fears and our dreams, that vulnerability, and the safety to be vulnerable, is what I carried
away from my experience.
Respectfully submitted, Eden Middleton
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During my four days at Five Oaks I made many new friends, got to partake in some
great workshops, see some truly great spiritual leadership for our Moderator, Gary Paterson,
and had a great time in general. Some of the things I loved the most were things like the songs
we sang. Coming from Alberta, I don’t see a lot of church hymns with alternating French parts or
Swahili and I thought it was great. It was also cool to see some of the hymns people sing in
different parts of the country. It was also great to get to see Gary Paterson in action. It is
amazing to watch him preach. Never in my life have I seen someone with so many memorized
poems at their disposal. One of my favorite moments at Five Oaks was listening to Gary
Paterson read “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!” to a small group of us. He did this at the request of
someone brought it with them because it was their favorite childhood book. Being the social
person I am, some of the best experiences at Five Oaks for me were just hanging out with the
people there. I always looked forward to the free time hour at the end of each day because I’d
get the chance to learn more about all the interesting people there. Overall, this was a great
experience and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, spiritual experience.
Respectfully submitted, Dominic Petti
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Annual Report for Alberta & Northwest Conference
United Church Women - 2015
The United Church Women (UCW) of Alberta & Northwest Conference have been working hard
over the past year. Regular Unit meetings have taken place in various congregations
throughout the province, and then we have the Presbyterial meetings taking place. The
Executive and Sub-executive meetings have taken place at the appointed time, Executive
held a meeting in October in Red Deer, and Sub-executive met both face to face and by
teleconference throughout the year.
Some of our committees work on a continuing basis, and some just work as and when required,
and this work continues throughout the year.
Our Child Wellbeing Initiative Committee arranged a wonderful workshop and information day at
the end of the Executive meeting in Red Deer. The speakers were very knowledgeable and
informative, and the participants left with much to ponder and work on. I think some who
came, both men and women, heard and gathered in information which was really
enlightening, and they left with an inspiration to continue the work of the committee in
various ways in their own corners of the province. This committee continues to work
together, gathering in members whenever they need them.
Various Conference UCW’s across the country are trying to gather a united proposal to go to
General Council in August of this year, asking that the Chair of the National UCW be
accepted or appointed as a full member of General Council. At the moment our Chair is a
Corresponding member, and as such is asked to leave the committee when various subjects
are being discussed, one of which is in the case of distribution of money. As the UCW’s
across the country contribute quite a large portion of the funds, it doesn’t seem right that the
Chair of the UCW does not participate in how that money is spent. Alberta & Northwest
Conference are bringing such a proposal to the Conference meeting in Slave Lake in May,
and as such, ask for the support of the members of the Conference to right this injustice.
The UCW is not an exclusive group: all women who have an interest in the work of the church
are invited to attend. Each group holds their meetings in a different format, some have lots
of Bible Study, some have speakers, some gather for social events, but all are joined
together by a wish for the four parts of the UCW Purpose: Christian Witness, Study,
Fellowship and Service.
I will continue to attend the Conference Executive meetings, and hope that I can contribute to
the work that is being done by the group. Hopefully, after all the changes we expect over
the next few years, we will continue to work together to further the work of the Church.
Respectfully submitted.
Barbara Davison – President of Alberta & Northwest Conference United Church Women.
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Secretary: Helen Reed.
E-mail: [email protected]
Box 99, Oyen, Alberta, T0J 2J0
Phone: 403-664-3987 Fax:403-6643003
Coronation Presbytery is a very active Presbytery and we enjoy each other’s company. Our
representatives, both Clergy and Lay, enter into these responsibilities and gatherings with a
shared love of the church.
We meet as a full Presbytery four times a year: for one day meetings in September and
February, and two day meetings in November and April. Our meetings are hosted by different
Pastoral Charges so that, over a three year period we generally have been in every Pastoral
Charge. Our Executive meets between times, when it is necessary to ensure the continued and
timely work of Presbytery.
Some of the highlights of our work in 2014 were
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Engagement in energetic discussion of the Comprehensive Review document
“Fishing on the Other Side”
Support of the two United Church camps in our Presbytery (Bar Harbour Camp
and Hardisty Lake Camp)
Welcoming new Clergy to our Pastoral Charges
Celebrating the retirement of clergy members.
Engaging in Unstoppable Church. Six Pastoral Charges joined in a workshop that
encouraged new thinking to move our churches forward into the future. Funding
for this was received from the Mission and Transition Fund of Alberta Northwest
Conference. We continue to share our experiences with each other and to
encourage a willingness to try new things.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC): members of our Presbytery
attended the TRC and shared their faith-filled and heart-stretching stories and
experiences with us.
Continued encouragement and discussion around the issues and proposed
changes for the United Church of Canada. This Included specific work on the
New Compensation Model, and the Continued Comprehensive Review reports.
An amazing silent and Lively Auction at our November meeting that raised
$1,470.00 for Mission and Service.
With sadness, we recognized the closing of
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New Norway and Ferintosh Pastoral Charge
Botha United Church
We are a rural Presbytery and have many small churches within our bounds. We continue to
encourage our members to seek new and spirit-filled ways of being the church, of trying new
resources, of communicating with each other and exploring new ways of partnering so that we
can continue to be vibrant and valued parts of our communities.
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NORTHERN LIGHTS PRESBYTERY REPORT TO CONFERENCE
May 2015
Geography defines Northern Lights Presbytery because of its dramatic scenery and variety of landscapes
– prairie, boreal forest, tundra, and mountains and the passionate connection that its people have for the
land.
The wheels on the bus go round and round as it departs Clairmont in the darkness of the early morning,
transporting the southern members north on highway 43 to the 2014 fall Presbytery Meeting in
Yellowknife. This group includes Joan Kennedy, our one student who is in ministry in Valleyview, in her
fourth year of the Atlantic School of Theology Summer Distance Program; Megan Belke, a young adult
who attended General Council 41, and who now is a Presbytery member promoting youth programming
resulting in a youth event with the Presbytery of February 2013; our Chair Gord Waldie and his family;
and Kim Ekkel who acts as registrar and bus captain extraordinaire for the trip.
The people on the bus… The first pick up at Rycroft includes MiYeon Kim, Student Intern in appointment
to Spirit River with special arrangements with the Presbyterian Church of South Korea. Further stops are
made in Fairview, Grimshaw and Manning. In Grimshaw we remember our meeting in the spring when we
met to respond to the preliminary report of the Comprehensive Review Task Group, “Fishing on the Other
Side”. In Grimshaw we miss Janice Walls who has recently made a change in pastoral relations.
Grimshaw is partnering with Peace River, and Janice is one of the two Memorandums of Understanding
developed to facilitate paid ministry. The other MOU is between South Peace, Fort St. John and Marilyn
Carroll. In Manning we remember the decommissioning of Deadwood United, the second point on the
Pastoral Charge. In Manning, Sheila Reinders, one of the longest serving members, joins the group.
The bus passengers include Sharon McRann and Marilyn Carroll who retired in 2013 and 2014 and who
continue to serve in Lesser Slave and South Peace. Sharon is attending her last Northern Lights
Presbytery, having made the decision to move to Spruce Grove. Our long serving support person Patricia
Bourque is not on the bus. We celebrated and grieved Pat’s retirement in June 2014.
The driver on the bus said “We’ll soon be there” - 16 hours later we are greeted in Yellowknife by Peter
Chynoweth, Intern Alison Mock, and a welcoming group offering billets. The meeting begins after a restful
night and connecting with those who have driven from Whitehorse via Fort Nelson. Jim Patterson, retired
supply from the Presbyterian Church, is in ministry in Fort Nelson. He facilitated a bible study by
teleconference with churches along the Alaska Highway; a beginning to a broader initiative of the
Presbytery for sharing effective ministry in that region.
First Nations culture and history are featured at this meeting. Nancy Trotter, the new Chairperson of the
Presbytery’s “Living the Faith” Committee, is one of the organizers. She is encouraging more study and
action in response to the ending of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Presbytery gave financial
support to people who attended the TRC hearings in Edmonton. Other programs featured at Presbytery
meetings in this triennium were an inspiring presentation from attendees at the Moderator’s Green Belt
Pilgrimage; and a presentation from Peter Chynoweth on “Free Software and the Spirit of Open Source”
(opensourcespiritseeker.wordpress.com)
The wheels on the bus carry Presbyters home through the burnt out area south of Yellowknife, across the
McKenzie River to the forest and prairie beyond. There was much to ponder as travelers chat, read and
knit (many knitted items have been auctioned to raise money for the Mission and Service of The United
Church of Canada).
Paraphrasing Alison Mock - To experience the magnificence of the northern lights one must keep moving.
To experience its mission Northern Lights Presbytery must keep moving toward the Spirit.
Respectfully Submitted,
Martha Dawson, Secretary
81
RED DEER PRESBYTERY REPORT to
ANW CONFERENCE- May 28-31, 2015
We, of the United Church of Canada in Central Alberta, Red Deer Presbytery, representing a
diverse community of rural and urban congregations, are empowered by God, as revealed in
Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, to faithfully exercise pastoral oversight and pastoral care in
accordance with the United Church Manual, especially by:
-
Promoting, cultivating and strengthening community within and among the
Pastoral Charges and the Presbytery itself;
Listening and responding in faith
Enhancing the spiritual growth and well-being of members and adherents of
Pastoral Charges; and facilitating dialogue around theological and social issues.
Red Deer Presbytery continues to live into the goals identified in our vision statement as
congregations individually and collectively address changes that are occurring across the
church.
Red Deer Presbytery meets as a full court six times each year for a full day and has four
scheduled executive meetings. As members travel to meetings at churches across our
Presbytery, we see the diversity and the commonality that makes up the United Church of
Canada in central Alberta. This year’s theme of “Caring” has been emphasized through
educational presentations at our meetings. Caring for creation was emphasized in a
presentation by the Sylvan Lake Watershed Stewardship Society at our meeting at Kasota
East Camp. Care for our congregations, a regular part of our meetings, was especially
meaningful as we spent a time of prayer and encouragement for the congregations of
Pigeon Lake/Millet Pastoral Charge as they disbanded in June. Our response to the
shootings on Parliament Hill in October led us to a time of prayer for people, times and
places where peace is threatened. We experienced times of self-care through meditation
(non-doing time and wakeful stillness) and through music, mandalas, journaling and sole
massage. Short presentations on visioning tips and tricks have offered ideas to energize our
congregations. Collections for local food banks at our meetings have given us opportunities
to reach out to our communities. Book displays two or three times a year provide resources
and reading material for all presbyters. We celebrated with active and retired ministers who
reached significant milestones in ministry, ranging from 35 to 60 years of ministry. Changes
in Pastoral relations had us saying farewell to some of our ministry personnel and
welcoming new leaders among us. Congregations and pastoral charges are exploring new
relationships to continue to offer spiritual support with fewer numbers and limited resources.
The Presbytery is seeking ways to carry out our responsibilities more efficiently. It is hoped that
combining committees and streamlining processes for oversight visitation will help us to
meet this goal.
Discussions and responses to the Comprehensive review have been met with excitement and
uncertainty. Our Presbytery will continue to listen and respond faithfully as we look to God
and the wisdom of the wider church to live into our new reality.
With thanks to God who calls us, Jesus who shows us the way and the Spirit that guides our
journey.
Gaie Goin,
Red Deer Presbytery Chairperson
82
South Alberta Presbytery 2014 Report for
ANW Conference Annual Meeting, May 28-31, 2015
South Alberta Presbytery’s mission statement is, “Under the grace of God, and in accordance with
scripture and The Manual, we see our work as S.A. Presbytery in the United Church of Canada as having
two foci:
1. Developing and supporting vital, healthy congregations and pastoral relations, and
2. Serving as a conduit connecting the life and work of the congregations we represent with the
wider structures of the church, including other presbyteries, regional work, Conferences and The
General Council.”
This mission statement may arise out of the understanding of the church as the body of Christ, described
in 1 Cor. 12:12-31… South Alberta Presbytery being part of the connective tissue holding the body of the
church together, helping to keep it healthy and moving.
In line with our mission, 2014 saw South Alberta Presbytery meeting the challenges of changing
demographics and secularization through hundreds of hours of faithful service by those within Pastoral
Charges, including delegates, both lay and ministry; members of Executive and coordinators; retired
ministers and lay worship leaders. Thank you to all who make themselves part of Presbytery, trying to
assure connections are strong within the body of the church in southern Alberta. The work of supervision,
of visioning, and of presence with joint needs assessment and search committees would not be
accomplished without you, and the need for this work is large and growing in S.A. Presbytery. It would
also be more challenging for churches without ministry calls or appointments to arrange worship
leadership without you.
Along with the usual work of Presbytery (responding to requests of churches and church members,
considering remits, calls, appointments, property concerns, admissions, and more), much was
accomplished in 2014. The continuing work of the Visioning Committee and many church members, with
advice from a consultant, resulted in the establishment of the new Cardston-Coaldale-First-Northminster
and Milk River-Raymond Pastoral Charges.
As well, the pilot project Fresh Start program took root in the Presbytery with six people trained as
facilitators. Fresh Start programs are in process in Medicine Hat and Taber, where new covenants
between ministry personnel and churches have recently been formed.
As a resource for ministry personnel, chaplains for the east and west sides of the Presbytery were
appointed.
To update process within the Presbytery, the report, “Renewing the Work of South Alberta Presbytery”
was adopted for a three year trial period with the understanding delegates would continue to revise it,
gradually reforming it into the tool Presbytery needs to do its work in changeable times. As a Presbytery,
as well as in Pastoral Charges, delegates responded to the reports of the Comprehensive Review
Committee. As well, Presbytery learned that worship had ceased in one of its churches.
Events celebrated in S.A. Presbytery were many. Arriving in our midst were: a candidate for Diaconal
Ministry, an inquirer, and an ordained minister from overseas serving a Pastoral Charge while seeking
admission to the United Church. Several ministry people new to South Alberta Presbytery arrived and
several covenanting services were held with great celebration. Two graduates from South Alberta were
ordained at the ANW Conference Celebration of Ministry in Lethbridge in June. A well-received youth
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rally was held in March. On July 20, the 70 anniversary of Canyon Church Camp was celebrated. In
October we were delighted that Moderator Gary Paterson came to share news of the wider church and be
in conversation with us. And although we are dismayed at the growing need for nutritional support for
university and college students in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, we are delighted to help support the work
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of Ecumenical Campus Ministries in both cities. So we helped celebrate the 20 Anniversary of the
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Lethbridge E. C. Ministry on October 25 .
In S. A. Presbytery our faith is strong God’s Spirit will continue to guide us in the service of building
healthy connections within the body of Christ.
Sheila McLeod, Chairperson
83
St. Paul Presbytery Report for Conference 2015
Our Presbytery continues to ebb and flow; portaging the occasional rapids. The new governance
model of the Conference has guided us to be more directly engaged and upfront in our pastoral
relationships. The absence of Conference Staff is most noticeable and has raised some challenges. This
has meant our having to stand on our own two feet: a challenge to be sure; but also, permission to listen
to the stirrings of the Spirit in a unique and different way. Some pastoral charges continue to exist for the
sake of existing. Others have re-arranged their boundaries attempting to remain viable and vibrant
communities of faith. Still others are adapting to services occasionally provided by Lay Licensed Worship
leaders, fortified by a strong lay commitment. One church, Grace United, in Lloydminster, is undergoing
construction and expansion of their current facility with a clear mission focus. In the midst of this most
important transition, the local Presbyterian Congregation has kindly shared their worship space for the
members of Grace United.
The Presbytery has undergone a strong emphasis in providing a collective ministry to our youth.
Several workshops were held by the Division of Christian Development with moderate success. Recently,
a youth mission to Jamaica was well received with some 6 young people participating. This programme,
when first advertized, was offered Conference wide with enthusiasm. Rev. Paul Walfall was very
instrumental in making this prospect possible, and we are pleased by his many contributions, insights and
talents. However, the last two years have not been as successful due in part to the lack of financial
resources, little response from young adults, and other priorities within the Presbytery itself. I wish to
express my sincere appreciation and tremendous thanks to the members of the Division and to Rev.
Walfall, in particular.
The Presbytery’s summer camp, Camp Whitney, is currently under renovations and construction.
New dormitories for both boys and girls are underway, replacing the old cabins from the late 1950’s.
Infested with mould and mildew; no access for children with disabilities; deteriorating materials and poor
roofing, meant re-investment in our present facilities. The Camp has decided on long-term goals toward
our becoming a community resource centre rather than just a summer camp. We hope to be open all year
round, and have opened our facility for corporate and community leaders for retreats and educational
opportunities, as well as for weddings, receptions and family reunions. We have successfully raised some
$200,000.00 in donations, from individuals, congregations and corporations. We still need another
$25,000.00 to complete the project. Many thanks to our Board members and to our contractor, Rick
Wawara for making this dream our reality.
The Camp Whitney Board has restructured its governance model. The Board meets four times a
year, instead of once every 10 months. Committees have been struck: Finance, Human Resources,
Programme Development, and Property. Each committee Chair attends board meetings, helping to
initiate policy development. Rev. Paul Walfall has written and produced new curriculum for our camp
youth, and has been most indispensable in leading the Camp to become a light of hope and
encouragement for our youth. Once again, thank you Rev. Walfall and Board members!
St. Paul Presbytery also facilitated a workshop on conflict management last September, which was
opened to other Presbyteries throughout the Conference. This was well received with some 14 lay and 19
clergy participants. Each participant received a Conflict Management Profile for their further edification
and enlightenment. Much was learned. Once again, I wish to thank Rev. Paul Walfall and other
committee members for this important learning engagement.
St. Paul Presbytery continues to reach out despite shifting sands and the winds of transition. Like
everyone else, we are anxious to know the outcome of this up-coming General Council that is being held
in Newfoundland and Labrador. We continue to hold faith and to trust the movement of the Spirit.
Whatever the decision, we will abide to all our covenantal connections, however they are defined. We
thank God for our continued journey together, and pray for guidance and wisdom as God makes all things
new.
Respectfully Submitted,
Rev. Stephen Sparks, Chair of St. Paul Presbytery
84
Yellowhead Presbytery
2014/2015 In Review
Dear Colleagues and Friends of ABNW Conference,
Yellowhead Presbytery (“YHP”) had a purposeful and fruitful year of ministry. We were bold in supportive
work with Ministry Personnel and Pastoral Charges. We experimented with formats of meetings to
increase engagement, deepen our learning together and enrich our play and joy. We stepped into difficult
conversations and trusted the Spirit through it all.
I want to say Thank You! to all members of YHP, volunteers, the working Teams, Council members and
every Pastoral Charge that opened their doors and hearts wide with radical hospitality for our 2-3 day
meetings.
The YHP Mission Statement
“The mission of Yellowhead Presbytery is to equip and encourage Congregations, Ministry Personnel and
Mission Units to discover and act on our call to participate in the transformation of God’s world.” (2010)
Meaning of Our Work Together
Yellowhead Presbytery members understand that we function as a community of faith.
We are a spiritual community for our ministry leaders (ordered and lay). In practice, we lift up care and
compassion for the people in our Pastoral Charges. It’s not a simple kind of work, but for the sake of love
and transformation that reflects Christ’s ways, we persevere. We have given attention to the strengths of
a presbytery model (leadership support, community, accountability, collegial engagement), even as we
note the weaknesses that are addressed in the Comprehensive Review Task Group Report.
Yellowhead Presbytery members know that it takes all of us stepping up to the opportunities before us.
This year YHP practiced “Speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), acknowledging the lament we
carry and the courage needed to take next faithful steps.
Fruitful Ministry
YHP is in the third year of a Governance Model. The experiment continues! In addition to the full court of
YHP, areas of work are accomplished through the Ministry and Development Team, the Mission in Action
Team, the Council, the Chaplains, the Communication Team, and the Nomination Committee.
Highlights of 2014 include:
• movement toward deeper relationships and connection amongst Presbytery members. Attention
to our meeting content and structure has promoted this.
• clarifying and enacting a three part Theme for our full court gatherings. Our focus Scripture was
consistent with GC42: Isaiah 43. “I am about to do a new thing.”
Themes included: Identity (Isaiah 43:1-2); Letting Go - Perceiving The Now (Isaiah 43:18-19);
Wild Praise (Isaiah 43: 20-21)
• new ways of promoting meeting attendance: YouTube video invitations, Council letters,
Presbytery Sundays orders of service and sermon notes.
• meaningful Pastoral Charge oversights resulting in constructive follow up
• worship across the Presbytery (including Slave Lake), practiced encouragement and prayer
support.
• enrichment opportunities for Licensed Lay Worship Leaders
• celebration and support of student and Ordinand: Esther Baerends
• a worthwhile fall Clergy Retreat
• exploration at all stages of the Comprehensive Review roll out
• excellent resourcing of people and talents within the Presbytery alongside external expertise
Members of Yellowhead Presbytery look forward to participating in the unfolding future of our Pastoral
Charges and The United Church of Canada.
with gratitude,
Danielle Ayana James (Rev’d Dr.), Chairperson, Yellowhead Presbytery Council
85
Rundle’s Mission Society Annual Report
Alberta and Northwest Conference 2014
Rundle’s Mission Society continues to grow and improve in a slow and steady direction. We have a
Board of Directors and staff who are committed to a thriving retreat center, a well maintained historic site
and an education program for social studies students. The major project completed this year was our
Lakeshore Lookout – an accessible Gazebo on the shores of Pigeon Lake. This was officially opened on
October 10, 2014 by MP Blaine Calkins and was funded through donations and a Canadian New Horizon
for Seniors grant.
The Board welcomed back Directors Sharon Seidel (Chair), Deb Meuser, Ken Hutchinson (Secretary) ,
Pat Hughes (UC Representative), Art Trace, Morley MacCalder, Kathy Gregg (Treasurer), Dave Meuser
and returning member Ruth Harrison.
The staff contractors continue with Colleen Lomas (Manager) and Cindy Leonhardt (Admin Assistant).
We said good bye to MGM Property Management (Gary & Marcia Mielke) after two years of great service.
Dave Meuser resigned from the Board to accept the maintenance contract in the fall of 2014. Sweet
Landscaping continues to provide both snow removal and grass cutting services. Kim Koch continues to
be the hostess that greets all our guests and Cerina Paquet is our new housekeeper.
A stable base of users return on a regular basis to rent the facilities for their family reunions, church
retreats, weddings and education seminars. The Piano Festival took a one year break in 2014 but will
return for their two week camp in July 2015. The 12 to 14 gifted students from across North America
immerse themselves in their studies as they practice and learn from world renowned pianists.
Performances are scheduled in both the Pigeon Lake and Edmonton areas.
The Telfordville Church received a fresh coat of paint as well as a new sign. The north wall was in
definite need of repair as was the ramp and steps. It will host a wedding February 2015 and is a study
center for the students in the Alberta Piano Festival. The Memorial Lodge also received a coat of sealer
on the logs. This is a yearly maintenance task that we hope will preserve this beautiful building. The
memorial lodge was also fitted with a large catering fridge partially funded by UCW donations and the
Thorsby Recreation grant.
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We gathered to celebrate with Gerald Hutchinson and his family and friends the 100 year of his birth on
March 23, 1914. The Memorial Lodge was decorated and festive with cake and fellowship in May when
the weather was warm enough to plant a tree by the Telfordville church to honour the occasion.
We would like to thank Mr. Art Trace for donating two purple martin houses to the mission. This is a
project we thought would be both educational and environmentally significant. Due to Art’s generosity
this project was completed in a very short time. Now the birds just have to discover their new home.
We were sad to say goodbye to the Dowler Property Historic House but, as it was sold, the developer
required the land. We did contact Alberta Historic Resources and they documented the buildings for
future reference.
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2015 is the 175 Anniversary of the arrival of Rev. Robert Rundle and the eventual establishment of the
Pigeon Lake Mission. Our Community Celebration is August 29, 2015 and will be an event featuring both
the aboriginal heritage and the arrival of the settlers to western Canada. Everyone is welcome to attend!
Please RSVP to (780) 389-2422.
We will also be hosting a traditional Pigeon Lake Fish Fry in November 2015. We will keep you all
informed through the conference.
Colleen Lomas, Manager
86
STUDENT BURSARY FUND SOCIETY
ALBERTA AND NORTHWEST CONFERENCE
THE UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA
Annual Report for 2014-2015
Then I heard the voice of God saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?
And I said, “Here am I; send me!” Isaiah 6: 8
The Conference Student Bursary Fund Society, which had its inaugural meeting May 24 1991,
offers bursaries to students in ministry training. Meetings to form the society began in 1990- 25
years ago! As followers of Jesus the students have accepted the call to serve the church which
seeks to live the way of God. The funds are raised from the regular generous donations each
year mainly from the annual Celebration of Ministry Service and also from individuals,
congregations and groups during the year. The Society is very thankful for such regular
generosity. One group is the United Church Women, and groups of the Women of the United
Church of Canada who give annually $1000.00. We are very thankful for exceptional gifts such
as from the pastoral charge of Pigeon Lake- Millet who chose last year to give a significant
donation of $6,050 last fall from the sale of their Church building. One family donated this year
over $5000 in appreciation.
Once they have become candidates, the students are very pleased to have the opportunity to
apply three times during their studies and then to receive funds due to the generosity of the
whole church. The total cost of the studies per student is about $40,000 or more. Each bursary
assists a student toward the annual tuitions, course costs, accommodation and travel for those
in regional field placements and learning sites/internships and for any other unexpected costs.
The number of students varies from year to year. We have steadily increased the amount of our
bursaries given. From April 1 2014-March 31 2015, $13,200 was given in bursaries. Order of
Ministry Candidates received $1500 each (7 were ordained candidates and 1was a diaconal
candidate). $1200 was given to 1 Designated Lay Ministry Candidate.
As Chairperson for The Student Bursary Fund of Alberta and Northwest Conference, I
appreciate the wisdom of the members of the Board who offer this ministry, and the guidance of
Dr. Helen Murray. The Directors are: Carolynne Bouey Shank, Chairperson; Karen Spiess, Past
Chairperson; Doug Settle, Vice Chairperson; Helen Murray, Secretary/Treasurer; Sandra
Childs, Conference UCW Representative; Sue Hertell; and Phyllis Greenslade. Lynn Maki,
Executive Secretary of Alberta and Northwest Conference, is our Conference Liaison. If this is a
ministry to which you have a calling, contact the Conference Office or me
[email protected].
On behalf of the students we offer a grateful “Thank you” for your support and encouragement
of this ministry and of the call of our ministry students.
Respectfully submitted,
Carolynne Bouey Shank, Chairperson, Student Bursary Fund Society
87
S STUDENT BURSARY FUND SOCIETY
B ALBERTA & NORTHWEST CONFERENCE
F THE UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA
ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2011-2012
(ABSTRACT)
INCOME:Donations Personal - Charitable
- Unidentified
Pastoral Charges
UCW and WUCC
Matured Investments
Interest on Investments
Opening Balance (1st April 2014)
Total Credits
$ 7,456.50
$ 1,797.00
$ 4,531.37
$ 1,975.00
$ 29,000.00
$ 1,665.20
$ 1,358.67
$ 47,783.74
EXPENDITURES:Bursaries
Committee Expenses
Investments - GICs
Transfer to United Church Foundation
Closing Balance (31st March 2015)
Total Debits
INVESTMENTS:
$ 47,783.74
- GIC
- UCC Foundation
$ 62,470.08
$ 72,125.78
TOTAL ASSETS 31st March 2015 - $ 135,742.66
LIABILITIES
$ 13,200.00
$
436.94
$ 30,000.00
$ 3,000.00
$ 1,146.80
31st March 2015 - $ nil
Prepared by Helen Murray, Secretary/Treasurer
88
Review of 2014 Mission and Service Giving
With gratitude, we celebrate the gifts we have shared for God’s mission. Our gifts enable us
and others to walk in justice and act with loving kindness. The generosity of the people of
Alberta and Northwest Conference in 2014 for both local mission and ministry AND Mission
& Service offers hope and kindness to people and places in Canada and around the world.
1. Annual giving to the Mission & Service "Unified Fund" marks a positive
improvement over trends of the past few years with $25.67M nationally of which
$2,557,707 was given by the people of Alberta and Northwest Conference. Nationally
this represents a decrease of only $0.39M below 2013. This is an improvement over the
last two years’ decreases of over $1M each year. Across the church, we note that 1185
congregations are in 816 pastoral charges that increased their Mission & Service giving
in 2014. Thank you to the 100 congregations in 74 pastoral charges in Alberta and
Northwest Conference who are part of this generosity!
2. Giving through wills and other planned giving to Mission & Service is being
reported differently in 2014 to provide greater transparency and donor centred
communication.
a. Giving through wills and proceeds from life insurance policies: In 2014, rather
than announcing an allocated 4 year average, actual gifts received from wills and
proceeds from life insurance policies are reported. This results in reporting $0.75M in
gifts through wills and life insurance.
b. Annuity gifts: Also beginning in 2014, gifts to Mission and Service in the form of
final residual gifts from annuities are counted in the year that they are received
($0.19M).
3. Total giving to Mission & Service in 2014 was $26.6M:
i.
$25.66 annual gifts
ii.
$ 0.94 legacy gifts
iii.
$26.60M total gifts for Mission & Service (vs last year's announced total of
$28.03M)
4. Designated giving for Mission and Service partners and ministries:
i.
$0.51M through the Gifts with Vision gift-giving catalogue
ii.
$0.33M for emergencies: Ebola, Philippines, and Syria
iii.
$0.84M total designated gifts
Alberta and Northwest Conference
Mission and Service Unified Fund Contributions
For WDR
From UCW
From Special Gifts
From Congregational Giving 2014
Total Mission and Service Giving 2014
Thank you for your role in this generosity!
David Armour
Director of Philanthropy
89
Amount
$24,981
$78,965
$141,792
$2,311,969
$2,557,707
Financial Development Officer
Philanthropy Unit - General Council Office
“The times they are a-changin’” ... that was true when Bob Dylan sang it in 1964, and it
continues to be true today. But one thing that does not change is the generosity of the people of
The United Church of Canada and, in particular, those of you in Alberta and Northwest
Conference.
In 2014, in addition to generously supporting the work of their own Congregations, people in this
Conference gave $2,557,707 to Mission and Service in support the work of the wider Church.
Thank you.
And in 2013, 27 Congregations received $762,220 simply because, when 38 people sat down to
do their wills, they said “I love my Church” and remembered it through a gift (bequest) in their
will. We give thanks for these people, and their faith and belief in the ongoing work of our
Church.
The Conference’s Stewardship and Mission Education Committee met in March and I was
pleased to be made a corresponding member of the Committee. You will be hearing from us!
In the last few years I have enjoyed the broadened scope of my work with Congregations from
legacy giving exclusively to helping them to foster stronger giving practices for both local
expenses and Mission and Service. We are seeing positive change from people talking more
about their spiritual reasons for giving, to Congregations being more proactive about telling their
stories about the wonderful work they are doing through narrative budgets and other means,
and to more Congregations undertaking annual stewardship programs, some after years of no
proactive stewardship work.
We know that distances sometimes pose a bit of a challenge which means I can’t always meet
face-to-face with Congregations and individuals. With technology, as long as you have a
computer, a high-speed internet connection, and a speaker phone, we can meet “virtually”. If
that is something you would like to try, please don’t hesitate to be in touch with me. And don’t
forget to check out all the stewardship resources on the Stewardship Toolkit at
www.stewardshiptoolkit.ca.
Indeed, the times they are a-changin’. But another thing that hasn’t changed is how grateful I
am to the many, many people who have invited me into their Congregations, their homes, and
their lives. It is a privilege I do not take lightly. Thank you.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathryn Hofley
90
2014-2015 REPORT TO ALBERTA AND NORTHWEST CONFERENCE
Educating leaders for justice, compassion, and transformation.
Staying the course. For the Centre for Christian Studies, 2014 was a year of staying the course in the
face of a promising but uncertain future. As The United Church of Canada redefines its relationship
with theological schools, including operational grants and the role of testamur, we have been
strengthening our donor base and exploring new partnerships, while continuing to equip our students
for transformative ministry in the diaconal tradition.
Program and Students. Students who enter the diploma program at CCS must complete two weeks of
intensive learning in leadership development. The “LDM” (Leadership Development Module) is also
open to students in the Designated Lay Ministry program, and anyone who is looking for the chance
to explore ministry or a continuing education opportunity. In the past year, we offered the LDM in
London, Ontario (June 2014), Winnipeg (August 2014), and Peterborough, ON (January 2015). This
year, we plan to offer it from June 8-20, 2015 in Montreal, QC, and from August 10-22, 2015 in
Winnipeg, MB at the Centre for Christian Studies. For information go to www.ccsonline.ca .
In 2014, seven students graduated from CCS with a Diploma in Diaconal Ministries: Studies in
Transformation and Action. Currently 21 students are enrolled in our Pastoral Care Year, nine
students are taking a Reflection Year, and two will be graduating in April. Five CCS students are
from Alberta and Northwest Conference: Tani Baskett, Dan Leaver, Marion Martin, Tif McNaughton
(currently doing her field placement in Trail, B.C.), and Mona Smart. CCS is indebted to the many
mentors and facilitators from Alberta and Northwest Conference who help guide and support our
students through their learning journey.
Staffing. Ted Dodd, Ann Naylor, Scott Douglas and Principal Maylanne Maybee form the program team
at CCS. Scott Douglas also manages the CCS website which we think is really great, and edits
Common Threads, our monthly newsletter. Lori Stewart is in her second year as our Development
Coordinator, and Cheryl Thiessen recently joined our staff as Office Administrator. Ted Dodd, who
has been part of the program staff team of CCS since 1998, is planning to retire as of August 1, 2015.
We rejoice with him as he begins this new adventure, and at the same time we acknowledge that this
will be a great loss to CCS.
Challenges. CCS is challenged, as are all theological schools with a United Church connection, by the
General Council proposal to move to a competency based model of theological education, which
would recognize competencies rather than the credentials of a degree or diploma, as assurance of
readiness for ordination or commissioning. The effect of this proposal, combined with the One Order
of Ministry proposal, will have a profound impact on the Centre for Christian Studies.
Building bridges to the future. CCS is going in the right direction but we need to make adjustments in a
shifting landscape. We need to build bridges to the future that will help us transition to a renewed
program staff team who will reflect the values of CCS while bringing new ideas and energy, a robust
body of students who will continue learning to become compassionate and justice-seeking leaders for
our churches and communities, and a future generation of graduates, Friends, supporters, and
donors.
Bridges are in-between structures where diaconal ministers are called to be. There is no other school
like us … Come and help us to build strong bridges to the future and walk on them in faith.
91
Report to the Annual Meeting of
Alberta and Northwest Conference
May 2015
Greetings from the whole community at St. Andrew’s College!
Two significant program changes have made this an historic year in the life of the College.
The first major change is the incorporation into the programming at St. Andrew’s of the Diploma
for Designated Lay Ministry. In recent years the program has been offered by the Calling
Lakes Centre. With the Centre’s closure a new host was required to provide the program for the
national Church. St. Andrew’s is delighted to have been given the opportunity to offer the DLM
program, serve the Church in this way and welcome into our community the students preparing
for Designated Lay Ministry, the DLM planning teams and the program Director, Dr. Jennifer
Janzen-Ball.
The second significant program change at St. Andrew’s is the introduction this spring of a
Dual Degree Program. The Dual Degree Program is focused on attracting young people to the
beginning of their post-secondary education and journey to ordained ministry. The program will
offer a three year Bachelor of Theology, through St. Andrew’s College, combining two years of
undergraduate university courses and one year of study in the theological disciplines at St.
Andrew’s. The completed Bachelor of Theology will then provide graduating students with one
year of equivalency in the St. Andrew’s Master of Divinity program. Completion of the M.Div.
will require one further year in upper level courses in the theological disciplines, courses in
practical ministry, a unit of Clinical Pastoral Education and a 20-month ministry residence with
collegial learning circles. The Dual Degree Program will offer the opportunity for completion and
educational readiness for ordination in just over five and half years compared to the seven to
nine years required in the traditional M.Div. program.
With our national Church, St. Andrew’s shares the conviction that God’s world needs
leaders and we seek to be part of the journey of those who will be our servant leaders.
In this past academic year we have shared the journey with 19 students in the Master of
Divinity program and 19 students in the Designated Lay Ministry Diploma program; with 10
students working toward a Master of Theological Studies and 5 students doing an S.T.M.;
another 5 students are engaged in the Doctor of Ministry program and 2 in a Diploma in
Theology program. We have welcomed 14 students into the United Church of Canada
Admission program, 22 occasional students, and 1 exchange student from Korea. It is with
these whose journeys we share that St. Andrew’s College seeks to live out our mission of
providing to the Church and world a contemporary ‘justice driven education for Christian
leadership’.
Lorne Calvert
Principal
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