| September 2026 UCRMN ENews |
|
| | The United Church Rural Ministry Network is for all rural and small town folks - lay and ministry.
Please sign up at UCRMN.ca |
|
| Items of Interest in this ENews:
Wendell Berry - A Pillar of Rural Awareness (1934 - 2026) “Heartache and Hope” By Catherine Christie “Bringing Stories of Rural Ministry” - Christine Jarett Summary of Rural Routes Through the Holy - June 2026 Story by Rev. Dr. Joyce Sasse. Tech Corner - “Is The Church Becoming an Dopamine Addict?” International Rural Churches Association - “IRCA 2026” Reflections on Europe’s Summer - Eric Skillings Rural Chaplain’s Association’s Fall Learning Event - next week. Fall Rural Ministry Conference in Alberta. “Brave New World of AI” by Heather Walton “A Rural Wedding” by Heather McCarrel “The Small Church Issue” - September Issue of Broadview Rural Ministry Town Halls - To be announced - this fall. ChurchX - Free Workshops UCRMN is looking for “Awesome” Board Members Regional Meetings and UCRMN - Request to Regions
____________________________________________________________________
Past eNewsletters are archived at www.UCRMN.ca
If you have a rural story you would like to share, please submit your story to editor@UCRMN.ca. We welcome articles 300 to 500 words. |
|
| | Wendell Berry 1934 - 2026A Pillar of Rural Awareness |
|
| |
Wendell Erdman Berry was an American novelist, poet, essayist, environmental activist, cultural critic and farmer. Closely identified with rural Kentucky, Berry’s books and poems resonated with Rural Folks everywhere. Many of our Church Leaders reference Wendell’s work in their presentations about Rural Ministry. We may miss the man, however Wendell leaves us with many thoughtful reflections in poems, essays and books. |
|
|
| Cameron Trimble writes an article about Wendell in her daily newsletter “Piloting Faith”. |
|
| |
|
Heartache and Hope
Our summers are scary times throughout Canada, as communities wrestle with wildfires. This summer of 2026, I listened to a report from the BC Minister of Agriculture and Food, Lana Popham, as she joined with team members to report on the fires at Boston Bar, Summerland and other communities that had experienced evacuation this summer. This report took place on Aug. 11, 2026 on CBC (click on picture above for the article and audio recording). This summer, 269 regional Agricultural premises have been impacted. 146 families have been under evacuation orders and 123 under evacuation alert. 50,000 farm animals have been impacted with the threat of fire. One of the very positive stories has been of the Range Riders. This volunteer group was established in 2021 by the BC Cattlemen's Association to help ranchers evacuate and manage cattle threatened by wildfire or by flood. These Riders are trusted, know cattle and the area they are operating in, and go out when the call goes out on horseback or on ATVs to bring cattle to safe areas or buddy farms. 15,000 cattle of the Coldwater First Nation were safely moved in 24 hours of their evacuation notice. There is no record of livestock losses from this summer. Many herds graze on Crown land over the summer, not close to ranchers, and they will show up at their home ranches in October or as the weather gets cold. So many ranchers are hoping that come the fall, their cows will return. In the same way, horses were just let out of corrals as the fire approached, and were able to find safe places, returning to their homes a few days later. We give thanks for the wisdom animals have. Minister Popham also noted that orchards and vineyards had been deserted in prime harvest season. Smoke was affecting the crop. Let us remember those who have suffered from fire or from flood across the country and around the world this summer, and keep them in our prayers as we come to the fall and winter.
The United Church of Canada Wildfire Prayer
"Creator, Wildfires have intruded on our lives, leaving us vulnerable, exposed, open: We come to you, broken, seeking wholeness…
In our time of need provide for us those things that will bring restoration to all of creation, the gifts of the spirit and the gift of each other.
Above all, remind us always of your steadfast and abiding love. Amen."
Story and reflections offered by Catherine Christie (Calgary) |
|
| | Bringing Stories of Rural Ministry Into The Conversation:
By Christine Jarrett This year’s United Church of Canada study booklet for the season of Lent was called, “Bless, Break, Share”. In the foreword, Alydia Smith invites us to consider hunger and food as a spiritual practice. When I was asked to lead an online study of the booklet and as I read through the reflections in the booklet, I realized that this was an opportunity to highlight the particular ministries and gifts of rural congregations as they relate to food and hunger. Several people gathered for a UCRMN workshop in late January so I could begin hearing the stories from rural congregations. Out of that workshop, I had deeper conversations with Donna Mann and Catherine Smith. Donna’s story about her family’s experience of offering hospitality to strangers enriched the fourth week’s session. You can see and hear her story here: |
|
|
|
Christine added the following reflection: You and I participate in systems that are structured to work against life-giving communities. Neighbours are viewed as competition for scarce resources. Strangers are framed as being dangerous. Both the story by Vusomuzi on Day 22, The Chief’s Granary, and the accompanying scripture: “When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest." (Leviticus 19:9) describe systems that work toward supporting and enhancing life-giving communities. Care for the neighbour is tied intimately to God’s will and purposes, to living faithful and holy lives. Hovering under the surface in many rural congregations is their sorrow and grief at the loss of neighbours. Industrial agriculture has led to larger farms and fewer homes and families. Small villages and towns disappear as services and stores cannot survive with fewer customers. At the same time, fewer local resources that enrich the life of the community are available: medical facilities and services, schools, social programmes, libraries, etc. Some urban areas may be experiencing the same pressures. These days, we have to be more intentional in cultivating practices and habits so that we know our neighbours, so that we know the local environment. As people who carry this command of God not to ‘reap to the very edge of the field”, we are commissioned to create structures that serve neighbourliness instead of serving the requirements of modern technology for efficiency. In her video, Donna Mann tells a story from her childhood of the kind of ‘structure’ that her parents created to serve neighbourliness, especially for the most vulnerable in their midst. Christine offers us an invitation: Share stories of your faith community (or another you know of) where the temptation to ‘circle the wagons’ (to take care of ourselves) is being resisted and you are creating structures/protocols for serving neighbours amid scarce resources. Reflections by Christine Jarrett
Editor’s Note: This article was to accompany Donna’s reflections in the June ENews. Our apologies to both Christine and Donna that it was missed. |
|
| |
|
| Rural Routes Through the Holy (RRTH)
Tales, Tables, and Tending: The Slow Work of God in a Fast World
Rural Routes Through The Holy 2026 gathered from June 11th to 13th at Central United Hunter River where we were offered gracious hospitality. We began with a land acknowledgement simply and powerfully offered in the Godly Play way by Anne Pirie who created this way of acknowledgement. The Scripture and reflection for our opening worship was of Jesus’ ‘table’ on the beach, John 21:9-15 and our opening prayer, Jan Richardson’s You Meet Us in our Hungering…
This was the first year we decided to give our time to a multitude of briefer presentations threaded together with a few words from Catherine and Kerry. Our theme was Tales, Tables and Tending: God’s Slow Work in a Fast World and the presentations all in some way opened the theme for us. Woven together by words from Catherine and Kerry, the presentations were amazing and the Spirit seemed present in the possibilities and nurture evoked by the whole collection of speakers. We had stories and tangible examples of how spirituality and creativity join through the fabric arts, reminders of the call to inclusion by the Affirm group, stories of how we can pay attention and care for local wetlands. a rich and gently informative presentation from the PEI Alzheimer’s society. We heard about a congregation’s monthly community lunch, had two very different and delightful expressions of the 100 Tables project hospitality and watched a slide presentation on the Mystery of Giza. We learned about the Pollinator Project that the Anglican Diocesan Network supports and Julie Pelliser Lush told us stories from the Indigenous tradition of her ancestors, drumming, and inviting us into movement. Catherine Ann Dickson created a Prayer Room that brought us to a sense of hush as we spent time at different stations. We closed with communion that left us feeling something holy had happened to us, there together. I am so grateful. If ever you want to join us or if you’d like to begin something in your area, I’m always happy to talk about Rural Routes Through the Holy. You can find me at ruralroutesatlantic@gmail.com or visit our website
Rev. Dr. Catherine Smith (RRTH) |
|
| |
| “Tribute to Volunteer Church Organists” written by Joyce Sasse, March 2021
Volunteer church organists are the unsung heroes of Sunday worship – expected to perform suitably whether there are 5 or 50 in the congregation. Expected to be there regardless the weather or whatever their family schedule might include. Expected to make meaningful sound – often with instruments handed down from generations. They do their best to cope with hymns selected by clergy that are unfamiliar to the congregation. They treasure their broken and tattered hymn books that don’t threaten to close halfway through verse 2. They slowly make necessary adjustments when sporting new bifocals and as fingers stiffen. Jean Fahlman, a veteran country church organist, recalls “one minister who couldn’t tell C from G. But what he lacked in a musical ear, he made up for in enthusiasm. I got the full benefit of his warbling.” She writes, “I got so rattled by all the discord that I couldn’t tell if I was playing the wrong key or if he was singing off-key.” Was that what one organist was hinting to me when she wished she could zap the pulpit mic during the singing of our hymns? But I did appreciate the tribute that came from her choir when they sang “The Monotone Angel” at my service-of-retirement! Fahlman says more. “I played for church after I learned my father had terminal cancer, because I thought If I stuck to my routine, maybe things would somehow get back to normal.” So often we take these persons for granted! In one community where several children and youth took music lessons, the Church Board invited them to play at church whenever they had something appropriate. It could be during the opening, or at the time of the offering, or for a song the congregation could sing ... It took one 6-year-old three Sundays trying to get his courage up to do his piece. But four years later, he even filled in one Sunday so the organist could be away. It is much easier to gain that experience as a child, instead of when you are in your Twenties or Forties! And we had a volunteer-organist-in-the-making. We are indebted to all volunteer organists who so generously share their ministry of music!
Contributed by Rev. Catherine Christie |
|
| |
| Martin Dawson (PEI) and Peter Chynoweh (AB) are retired United Church Ministers who “love” working with “Open Source Software” and used computers. They help the UCRMN Executive stay online.
The Biggest expense for most churches is updating their computers, and just as expensive, Software. In this column, Martin and Peter will give you stories, suggestions and links including YouTube, that show you how to DIY, at a fraction of the cost. All this information is stored at UCRMN.ca on the Tech Resource Page. |
|
| | “Is “The Church” Becoming A Dopamine Addict Too?” The time has come for a confession, now that I am retired and have had more time for reflection. During my ministry, I was, at times, euphoric over the possibilities of modern digital technology in the service of the church. Yes, from Windows 95 and the early Microsoft Office Suite, Skype, Google Hangouts, Facebook Live, YouTube, Mixlr Internet Radio Broadcaster, etc., I have used many software platforms and programs. It truly had some positive outcomes. Communication was faster, editing was easier, connections were less expensive. I retired in 2018, but when the pandemic restricted worship for many churches, my former pastoral charge was already “geared up” because of my use of supposedly free obsolete computer equipment that now ran on Linux instead of Windows. Streaming to folks unable to physically attend services was already taking place via Facebook. Earlier, our Internet radio station had provided audio-only “live feeds” to people with computers. All of this was connected to the website that I created in 2010. Indeed, some members were given the laptops that I revitalized through Linux to access these features after I visited these “shut-ins” to set it up and train them in its use. I thought all the problems were answered, that is, until the Internet’s evolution into its present form. Rest of the story.
Martin Dawson, retired minister living in Cornwall PEI
|
|
| | Last Spring Martin offered a free USB Flash Drive with Linux Mint and mail it to you. Martin has had several requests, and has a few more drives available. Martin will also offer some tech help if needed. Just email Martin here: email your request with your address. Just think no more hang ups, long updates and totally secure. |
|
| |
| IRCA 2026 Summary:
IRCA 2026 conference in Sibiu, Romania from 20-25 July 2026 was hosted by the Evangelical Academy of Transylvania. It featured two keynote speakers Lothar Schullerus and Roger Parvu, as well as panel discussions with global and regional representatives on ‘Culture, Identity and Faith’ or ‘Training & Equipping for Ministry and Mission in Rural Places’. There were also workshops on different topics relating to our theme, meeting in ‘family groups’ of around 10 people from different regions or backgrounds. The conference theme: ‘Roots, Faith and Identity: People and Communities Living on the Land’ reflects the deeply embedded nature of faith and history in Europe. As we face an increasingly complicated global situation and wrestle with questions of identity and relationships with land and each other, the conference aims to provide opportunities to share our stories as we build relationships and walk through life together as an international and ecumenical community… |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | Reflections on Europe:
2026 in most of Western Europe has been very hot and dry. Field after field of corn is burnt yellow. Fields of sunflowers (major crop) are small and hanging down out of the sun. Water levels in the Danube are so low that Romania and surrounding countries had to shut down their Nuclear Power Plants from lack of water. River cruise ships bottomed out. River Ships are grounded in ports as there is not enough water for them to travel. Cargo ships that can navigate the river are carrying small loads of the most precious supplies. Most days we reached 40 C, with no rain. Most nights you could see the “heat lightning” in the distance, but no rain. Forest fires where burning in United Kingdom and France this summer. Please offer prayers for our Rural Friends in Europe. “God, offer the waters of life to our Rural Friends in Europe. Give them the belief that you will provide. Help each country and municipality to walk with their people. May we know we are never alone. You God are always with us. Thanks be to God!” Thank you for your prayers and friendship in Christ. Contributed by Eric Skillings |
|
| |
| September 16 - 19, 2026 in Oklahoma USA
The Rural Chaplains Association’s 2026 Focus Event is in Oklahoma City (at the Airport Hotel). Check out the October ENews for the summary of the 2026 Focus Event. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
The Rural Ministry Conference returns this fall, October 2-4, 2026!
Come experience rural hospitality, inspiring theme sessions and practical workshops for today’s rural ministry! It’s hosted by Knox United, Three Hills and St. Paul’s United Trochu and sponsored by LeaderShift and Chinook Winds Region. Our Theme Speaker is Rev. Dr. Catherine Smith, host of the Maritimes’ Rural Routes through the Holy. Begins Friday and ends Sunday. You’ll find conference & accommodation information, and can register on the LeaderShift Website: |
|
| | |
Editor’s note: Heather Walton is a Licensed Lay Worship Leader, and participated in “Generative AI and Liturgy” led by Christine Smaller (United in Learning - Church X).
Following is an overview on the course and her experience with it.
Church X offers several Courses in AI.
Check out their website.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brave New World of AI Our Creator has gifted us with inquiring minds and inquisitive natures. This is quite apparent from our constant need to know the why, the where, the what of life as we push the boundaries of science, space, seeking out the source of things beyond we see and hear. This exploration has led us to look for ways to learn faster, and more efficiently. Ai is now embedded in nearly every system on earth: from health care, banking, science, and education to name a few. For those of us in faith communities, this means we have historical records and theology at our fingertips. We can input an idea into Claude, Gemini, co-pilot for liturgy and prayers or reflections and a full service will generate without even opening the bible, or our research books. On the surface this looks like a great time saver. Yet, Second Timothy 3:16; Timothy’s letter reminds us that “all scripture is God breathed and useful for teaching, reproof, correction, and training so that followers of the Holy One may be proficient, equipped for every good work.” Rest of the story.
by Heather Walton LLWL - July 2026 |
|
| | |
|
"A Rural Wedding”
This photo is a perfect example of Rural Ministry. This is the set of wheels the newly wed couple, Michael & Peyton, had waiting outside the church! You know you are in rural ministry when a shiny tractor with cans tied on its back are waiting for the Bride & Groom! This was a wedding at Kemble-Sarawak United Church in Kemble Ontario (Western Ontario Waterways RC) on Saturday. June 27, 2026. The photo was taken by Kerolyn Moran.
Story shared by Heather McCarrel - Kemble-Sarawak United Church |
|
| |
| Click on the Magazine to see the online version |
|
| |
| The 2026 Fall schedule is yet to be determined. |
|
| |
| Check out ChurchX for all kinds of Learning Events: Many are free. Some are learn at your own pace. There are plenty to choose from.
|
|
| |
| | UCRMN has been supporting Rural Ministry in Canada for six years. We are looking for New Board Members who have a passion for Rural Ministry. Time commitment is: Monthly planning Meeting for ENews (9 times per year). Review each ENews to ensure quality.A yearly Board Meeting to approve Financials, Budgets and to set direction.Possible leadership and/or participation in Quarterly Zoom Workshops.
If you have the skills and passion, please contact us at info@UCRMN.ca |
|
| | Regional Meetings and UCRMN: |
|
| UCRMN has approached all 15 Regions for a “Networking” Donation to keep UCRMN viable. What we are finding is that Regions are setting up “Funds” that Networks can apply to. If your Region is using a “Fund” that we need to apply to, please share the information. editor@ucrmn.ca We are asking $ 500 per Region. This will allow UCRMN to continue to offer rural resources, Zoom Workshops, and nine ENews per year to keep everyone informed.
We have shared with the Regions the important work we have accomplished in 2025, and provide them with a 2026 Proposed Budget. Feel free to encourage your Region to support UCRMN. Please invite people interested in rural ministry to check out us at UCRMN.ca. |
|
| | So Long For Now!
We hope you enjoyed this Edition of ENews. Any suggestions are most welcomed.
Email editor@UCRMN.ca
_________________________________________________
Please forward this email to your Rural Ministry Colleagues and encourage them to “sign up” from our webpage at www.UCRMN.ca
_________________________________________________Who is UCRMN?
We are a Volunteer Charitable Network that is collecting and posting Rural Ministries initiatives in the United Church - from across Canada - all in one place; www.UCRMN.ca
_________________________________________________
If you have an interest in finding out more, or to volunteer, please email us at office@UCRMN.ca
Blessings on your ministry!
Catherine, Eric, Donna, and Yvonne |
|
| | |
|
|
|
|
