| |  | April 2024 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 | 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. | | “Zoom” Workshop in 2 Weeks:
Thursday April 18, 2024 - 1 pm (EDT)
“Social Media for the Rural Church”Facilitated by The United Church of Canada Digital Team.
A presentation and discussion with members of The United Church of Canada Digital Team, Cara Czech, Rev. Stephen Fetter, and Aaron Gallegos.
Join us for a presentation and Q&A discussion with members of The United Church of Canada Digital Team on using social media in the context of rural ministry, discovering the most effective means of communication for your rural church, and a look at some of the best practices in social media and digital communications, including the potential and pitfalls of a variety of online platforms. This presentation offer a time of discussion on both the "how" and "why" to use digital communications in your church.
| | |  | Love Resists: Nonviolence & Sacred Activism
Four week series: April 4, 11, 18, 25, 2024 (Thursday evenings) 5pm-6:30pm PT / 6pm-7:30pm MT / 8pm-9:30pm ET
Feeling called to take action for an affirming, inclusive world for 2SLGBTQIA+ people? Wondering what will make a difference? Join us as we explore nonviolence and sacred activism for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights!
This practical, 4 week virtual series welcomes those who are Allies, accomplices, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people who are new(ish) to taking action or looking to deepen your soulfulness as you show up yet again.
Tickets: $60 (includes all four sessions)
Special offer for United Church Rural Ministry Network members: Enter promo code UCRMN for 20% off! Get Tickets
| | |  | 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. | | “Seek and You Shall Find in Windows” If you have read the many articles about technology that I have written, you will already be aware that I use a Linux operating system on my computers (Linux Mint), and I use open source software wherever possible. Of course, Microsoft Windows (10 or 11 versions) are, at present, the most used operating systems on personal computers. This article is an attempt to help you retain a degree of privacy, while using this software, although I must admit that Microsoft is making this more difficult. The first topic to understand is “telemetry”, which is the means of collecting data about performance, etc., and then sending it to a remote or central location for analysis. Microsoft uses telemetry to get feedback on their products to improve performance, but it also gathers data for other reasons that have nothing to do with real improvements to the user. At this point, telemetry crosses the line into the realm of privacy. So let us examine some of the means of limiting this data transfer.
(Click below for the rest of the story) Martin Dawson, retired minister living in Cornwall PEI
| | |  | Studying How the Sacred Touches Our Lives
Words from Joyce Sasse's Gleanings from a Prairie Pastor, (pub. 2021) as she reflects on Rural networks. UCRMN has arisen from the networks here described, as well as the Alex Sim Symposium (1996 to 2016 in Ontario). (This EBook can be downloaded at the CIRCLe M website www.circle-m.ca) This article was originally written for April 3, 2021. (Joyce wrote these words around May 26, 2021. University students are getting near the end of their terms. Congratulations and best wishes to them all. Joyce reflects on her degree granted in 2021). When colleagues and friends honoured me recently and helped me celebrate the granting of a Doctor of Divinity Degree from St. Andrew’s Theological College (University of Saskatchewan), others asked “What does a Doctor of Divinity University Degree mean?”
Furthermore, when a very astute newspaper reporter questioned my explanation that “Divinity” was one of the basic studies of the Sciences that are at the heart of University Education … I knew I had to try to find the words to explain what the recognition of my new status implied.
It’s not hard to name studies in Physics, Engineering, Medicine or even Literature to be a “Science”. We understand, as an example, a “Doctorate in Agricultural Science” is about very focused studies in Agriculture.
But what of “Theology” – defined as “the systematic study of the nature of the divine” … the study of “the spiritual”? The question is, what does this academic discipline mean? And how is it possible that people of various religious persuasions really can study spiritual matters together, even though they usually end up with a variety of different conclusions?
Theology is not just about studying Scripture … or learning the history of a religion … or the different ways we interpret ethics and morality … It is not just about how a Rabbi or an Imam or an Aboriginal Elder may lead discussions with students … It has to do with all of these things and so much more!
Some Colleges focus on Biblically-based Christian theology. There are also Schools of Islamic Theology, Jewish Theology, etc. All of them have to do with “the study of God”. In today’s Global World many of us now enjoy making opportunity to dialogue with each-other and thus learn with and from each other.
As we study “Theology”, it is important for us to consider the key relationships we share: with the Divine, with Nature and with other human beings. Someone once reminded us it is as if we are connected with Mother Nature by her umbilical-cord!
Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge that “lay people” (as well as “professionals”) regularly give consideration to theologically related matters. If you have experienced birthing or dying, suffering or joy, planting or harvesting, feelings of despair or elation, emptiness or fulfilment … you have been touched by these theological ways of thinking … and doing … and being! These values are part of who we see ourselves to be.
In addition, as with the study of any of the other Sciences, the Study of Theology isn’t so much about “finding answers” as it is about “learning to ask pertinent questions” … The purpose of these studies is “to learn more about what we don’t know”.
The doubts that haunt us and the mysteries that entice us … Doctor of Divinity studies challenge us to reach out even more as we think about the many ways “the sacred touches our lives”.
The title “Reverend Doctor” doesn’t make me “more divine”, but it does challenge me to find delight in moving further into “the beyond”.
As a member of the United Church of Canada, I am reminded of the Creedal statement which my theological understanding affirms ... “In life, in death, in life beyond death we are not alone. Thanks be to God.”
(Written by Joyce Sasse) - shared by Catherine Christie | |  | “Rural Routes Through the Holy” We’d like to invite you to a space of nurture for those in rural congregations and for the communities in which they live. Rural Routes is a gathering with time for both structured and informal conversations, worship, education, play, prayer, and table fellowship. We’d like to share our stories and to hear yours; what is working well and what you lament or long for, what brings you joy and who is your neighbour. We’d like to imagine together ways in which members of small, rural congregations might remain grounded in and able to share the Gospel despite sometimes challenging circumstances.
Please note: This is from the organizers… We really want to encourage lay participation. We’re always glad to see those whose vocation is or has been paid accountable ministry (PAM), but our hearts are hoping to see lots and lots of lay folks. We’ve shaped these days with you in mind. We want to hear your experience, your voices, and we want to offer nourishment and encouragement and community to you right along with PAM. Perhaps you know someone who feels orphaned from church through amalgamation or closure. Perhaps they’re looking for a place. Bring them along. We’d love to see them. (Even if you don’t like talking in a group, we’re happy to have your listening. And our experience is that over a meal or sat round a card table with a couple of others, sharing a cup of tea, you’ll find yourself sharing a story or a question.)
When: Thursday, June 13th at 10:00 to Saturday, June 15th at 2:00
Where: Orchard Valley United Church, New Minas, NS
Theme: Beautiful to Behold: Broken Open Church
Theme Presenter: Rev. Dr. Catherine Smith
Tasters: Thirty-minute presentations given by a variety of people on a variety of things so good we may want to go home and cook them up in our own communities. Spirit Circle, Table Church, Community Garden Partnering, and Meet Your Feet are just a few of the offerings, each given by someone who loves them well.
Workshops This year we're adding a few workshops: Collaborative Ministry (David Hewitt), Spiritual Memoir (Janice MacLean) and two on Attention to the Acadian Experience (Marvin Lee Anderson, Karen Archibald-Waugh and others).
Prayer Stations A labyrinth and a variety of prayer stations will be set up in quiet corners for moments of individual pause and reflection. Gratitude or lament, intercession, or deep stillness, here you’ll find ways of being prayer.
Maker's Market This year there will be space set up to offer your creations for sale. Books, biscuits, carving, weaving, jewelry and jam. If you don't make things with your hands you can make someone happy by your appreciation of their gift. We get to know one another through the things we make and share. The market will be open between 9:30 and 10:00 am and during mealtimes. There'll be someone there to take care of the market whenever it's open.
Registration Fee: $50 You can register here.
Accommodation: Attendees are responsible for making their own accommodation arrangements. This year we've reserved a block of rooms at the Acadian University Residence which you can. If you'd like to reserve one of these you can email karen at karen_archibaldwaugh@outlook.com There are other accommodation options which you can discover through the area's tourist information.
All meals except breakfast are provided as part of the gathering. Coffee, tea, and muffins are available at 9:30 am at the gathering each morning.
We have been able to keep registration costs low through the support received from grants and generous donors.
We're also glad that RRTH will again form part of an independent summer study with AST taught by Dr. Marvin Lee Anderson, one of the RRTH team. Catherine For Kerry, Martin, Marvin & Sara The RRTH Team |  | |  | EXPERIENCE ALBERTA FOOTHILLS RURAL CULTURE
JUNE 18-21, 2024
Meeting of the Rural Church Network of United States and Canada. Hosted by CENTRE FOR RURAL COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY, affiliated with Saskatoon Theological Union.
And Rural Church Network of the United States and Canada
Being held at Mount St. Francis Retreat Centre, Cochrane, AB. find information and registration form on www.circle-m.ca Arrangements are being made for those flying into Calgary to be picked up. Meeting and worship time at Mount St. Francis, and a day and a half of field trips to experience Alberta Foothills Rural Culture. 1. The Land of Dreams project offers the unique opportunity to build connections between Indigenous peoples and newcomers through the development and cultivation of a community garden. The Land of Dreams is a meaningful space for Calgary newcomers (immigrants and refugees) to rekindle their roots and build a sense of community while learning about and appreciating Alberta’s Indigenous history. 2. Visiting Mini Thni (Morley, a Stoney community) (10-2 p.m.), hosted by Rev. Tony Snow, and Banff (4 – 7 p.m.) hosted by Rev. Kevin Driver, who pastors a congregation in a tourist area There are options for people from around Calgary who choose not to stay at Mount St. Francis. Read about them at www.circle-m.ca
Registrations for this retreat are picking up. We warmly welcome those who decide to share this time with people who love rural ministry.
Catherine Christie - CiRCLe M Chair | | | “After Amalgamation - New Work Begins”
There are many reports and accounts written about amalgamation. Some are written in point form, while others fill a book. Crises leads congregations to the table to talk and begin acting upon declining numbers, diminishing funds or lack of leadership. The term "Crises open opportunities, and opportunities invite choice" comes from a significant thirty-three-page offering by Janet Marshall published by the Toronto United Church Council that views the topic of amalgamation over almost twenty years. It takes a long view before, during and after merger. When crises open opportunities and opportunities invite choice, those who find themselves in the upheaval of change can benefit as the church is given rebirth in its new setting. Ministry must continue to be strong during this time: Sermons, pastoral care and leadership are foundational in meeting the congregations' needs. After the original staff leaves, additional pastoral care may be needed. Music experienced in choirs, solos, and congregational singing reveals the story of God's love pouring out on people. Trustees continue to hold the history plus other significant responsibilities through time. When found in elected church committees, good decision-making continues to be a bonus. This accumulation of effort adds individuals to the actual numbers available. It takes well-rooted leadership to carry congregations through crisis. Amalgamation happens; people draw closer and begin to feel at home with genuine acceptance, giving, pastoral care, and the circle broadens. I remember amalgamations where one church gifted another. Gifts of genuine reaching out to one another, recognition, and anticipation perpetuated a deep well from which to draw strength to continue. It made a vast difference from coffee time to offering rides to church. It can work – it does work – it will work when crisis invites choice, the importance of growing together is heightened, and the circle of congregations widens as they find solid ground on which to stand.
By Reverend Donna Mann (Retired) - Ontario | | Hockey Provincials
On the third weekend of March, I went to Calgary to watch the Alberta Under 18 Female Tier 2 Hockey Provincial Championships. My granddaughter was playing in the host team, one of the Calgary U18 Girls teams. There were 6 teams, from all around Alberta, the winners of the geographic zones. It was great hockey; but what struck me most was that the city teams were soon eliminated from the play and the medal winners were all from sparsely populated rural areas. Why is this? I went in thinking the urban teams would have the advantages for strong play, but was proved wrong. Pondering it, I thought about the small communities I know, and I am aware of many professional athletes that come from small communities across the country. As farm children learn to work on the land, they develop strength and focus. With fewer activities to distract, the teams have the time and opportunity to develop their strengths and teamwork. The members of teams in rural areas know each other better than those in urban areas. My granddaughter attends try outs in late summer, at which time players are slotted into Calgary teams, so that teams are quite evenly balanced. Consequently, she may know only one or two other players on her team from playing other years, and rarely does someone attend the same school she does. The rural area is quite different. Players play years on the same team as their team mates. When I watched the provincials, I was impressed at the passing skills exhibited. That comes from knowing well each other’s style of play, not only from the hockey rink, but also the school basketball court and the local baseball diamond. Nowadays, in the rural areas, children have to travel long distances and make a large commitment to be a part of a team, as the teams draw on a wide area for their players. So the young people who continue with the teams are, of course, the most committed, with continuing supportive families and coaches. I congratulate those rural areas who field teams in many sports, and the life lessons that the young people learn as they commit themselves to sportsmanship, respect and health. If anyone would like to reflect on this article, or tell a story about the teams in your area, we would love to hear what you have to say.
Please write your story and send to editor@ucrmn.ca
- Story by Catherine Christie | | “Rural Culture and Context”
For the second year, attendance at “Rural Routes Through the Holy” will form part of a directed summer study offered by the Atlantic School of Theology. Dr. Marvin Lee Anderson will supervise the course. You can read the syllabus here. This is an excellent opportunity for those wanting to delve deeper into an exploration of rural context and culture. |  | |  | “Rural Ministry Town Halls 2024” in 2024, the Rural Ministry Town Halls are focusing on different subjects to allows Rural folks to share our experiences, about that month’s topic. Knowing that ministry vitality looks different in rural areas and valuing those differences, these gatherings are a chance for the growth team to develop an understanding of what might be most helpful for rural ministry going forward. Any learnings from these gatherings will enhance our understanding as we work with regional councils to support rural ministry.
Here are the dates for our Zoom Meetings – Please Mark Your Calendar! Wednesday, April 24, 1-2 pm ET – Bold Discipleship Wednesday, May 29, 1-2 pm ET – The United Church of Canada Vision – Connected but Evolving Church
| | |  | Collaborative Ministry Resources Page:
We are learning you need to know the “Why”, before the “How”. The “Why” is based on you, as a unique Church Community. The “How” will be different for each “Why”. For tools to help you figure out the ”Why” and then later the “How” - the Antler River Regional Council has a Toolkit # 9.
See ARWRCUCC.ca - there is a Step by step process available. - your Region may have something similar. Talk to your “Congregational Resource Person”
UCRMN has quite a selection of helpful Collaborative Ministry resources on our website. Check out our Collaborative Ministry Resource Page at UCRMN.ca. If you have a Collaborative Ministry story to share, please send us your story to Editor@ucrmn.ca. .
| |  | | Regional Meetings and UCRMN: | Most Regions have a Networking Fund that allows Networks such as the United Church Rural Ministry Network to apply for funding. We are asking for $300 from each Region. Thank you to those Regions who have supported UCRMN in 2023 (Antler River Waterways, Western Ontario Waterways, Prairie to Pine, Northern Spirit, Nakonhaka, Living Skies and Horseshoe Fall). 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
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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
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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, Shelley and Yvonne | | | | |
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