| | | The United Church Rural Ministry Network is for all rural and small town folks - lay and ministry.
Please sign up at UCRMN.ca |
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| Items of Interest in this ENews:
Nov. Zoom Workshop “Open Discussion on AI” Story by Rev. Dr. Joyce Sasse. Tech Corner - two stories about AI Rural Churches Without a Building” Rural Chaplain’s Association’s Fall Learning Event - Report Report on Fall Rural Ministry Conference in Alberta “Are You Having The Same Menu This Thanksgiving”? Rural Ministry Town Halls - October 28 at 2:30 pm ChurchX - Free Workshops Regional Meetings and UCRMN - Request to Regions
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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. |
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| | Next Zoom Workshop “Open Discussion on AI”
We hear from some of you that you use AI. We hear from others “No Way”! Some online workshops invite us to discuss “why “and “how” to make AI accountable. Our tech team has used AI for different projects with great results. All of this, and your comments and questions. |
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| Join us on Thursday November 19, 2026 at 1 pm ET for a Zoom Workshop on AI |
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| “Giving Thanks For Marvellous Moments of Beauty” written by Joyce Sasse, March 2019 A moment of beauty can feed one’s soul for a life-time. In her later years, Joyce spent a lot of time studying Annora Brown, an Alberta artist. (see www.annorabrown.ca) Here she writes of Annora in a fine Thanksgiving article - Catherine Thirty-five years after experiencing a particular day in the Rocky Mountains, Annora Brown’s amazing memory continued to feed her soul as she wrote about it in her autobiography Sketches from Life (1981). She told of how a narrow plateau on the edge of Cameron Lake challenged her to climb up to “a hidden heaven”. On that plateau the artist found a rainbow of wildflowers blooming beside a tiny glacier-filled pond. What she saw was a heady experience – the cold snow alongside the warmth and colour of the flowers. Bumble-bees and hummingbirds speckled the scene, and a white-throated sparrow sang through the clear mountain air. “I felt very humble”, Annora wrote noted, remembering how she found respite from all the news of the World War II tragedies that echoed around the world. Her trip down what had been a dry rocky stream bed that morning, was now “a rushing torrent” of snowmelt. The icy torrent over the slippery rocks brought Annora back to reality. But the marvel of those hidden moments on the mountain ledge remained heaven-sent. We catch glimpses of similar life-giving moments written in scriptures through the songs of the Psalmists. More than 3,500 years ago, they too told of a gracious and caring Creator who was enchanted by beauty.Look at the marvels you have done, the Psalmist said of God. “You cover yourself with light as a garment … You make the clouds your chariot, riding on the wings of the wind … (You make) fire and flames your servants.” Grass grows for the cattle, and wine and bread give us strength because of you. “Bless the Lord, oh my soul … I will sing to the Lord as long as I live.” (Psalm 104) To this day so much of our world is overtaken by anger and angst, by furor and all that it unsettling. And it is true that we can never immerse ourselves in an ever-lasting spa of beauty. But like Annora, and like the Psalmist from of old, all of us can catch momentary glimpses of beauty that touch the very centre of our being. Such moments give us strength beyond our own strength. They give us peace when the going is hard. They help us laugh when our other alternative might be to cry. “May the Lord give strength to (the) people! May the Lord bless (the) people with peace!” (Psalm 29 Contributed by Rev. Catherine Christie |
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| | This month, we asked our Tech Team to share their experiences on AI (Artificial Intelligence). This can help prepare us for the November Zoom Workshop “Open Discussions on AI”. Both Martin and Peter offer their reflections below. In case you missed Heather’s article last month on her AI Experience as a LLWL, you can see it here. |
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| 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. |
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| | “My Experience Using Artificial Intelligence as a Tool” Many of the readers of my submissions to the UCRMN e-newsletter are aware that one of my hobbies is old-time radio. I am particularly interested in the use of shortwave radio and its ability to broadcast over the entire planet. Yes, it is “old school” technology, as it was developed by amateur radio operators in the 1930s, only later to be turned into a governmental tool to broadcast across not only nations at one time, but also the whole earth under favourable conditions. What appeals to me is the fact that unlike the modern Internet, it is untraceable to the listener, it has no subscription fees or Internet Service Provider fees, and the entry cost of equipment is extremely inexpensive. A functioning shortwave radio, that is the size of a pocket transistor radio that teens had in the 1960s and 1970s can be purchased for $15. Some are even solar powered. So with this information, you must understand that I have a weekly radio show called, “Old-Time Radio Mystery Theatre” that is broadcast through the shortwave radio station WRMI located in Florida. The station has 14 transmitters and a square mile of antennae, and their signals reach everywhere, yes, even Tasmania. This year I decided to attempt to provide my free program to listeners that speak languages other than English, as I generally base my program on radio programs from the 1930s to 1950s, but they are always in English. So, I did some research and found an AI company that will not only translate speech, but also has the needed ability to distinguish the different characters in the recorded mystery and assign an individual voice to each throughout the show. I started with a show translated into Spanish, and the owner of WRMI, who is fluent in that language, said that it was perfect. Even the sound effects were left in properly. It was broadcast in early summer this year. Then I made a translated show in Japanese to celebrate their “Mountain Day” holiday in Japan. It too was well done and messages to the station from listeners were positive. (I should note that, as the host of the show, I am also translated into these languages, and it does sound strange to hear myself in a tongue that I do not speak.) Overall, I was impressed with AI’s ability. Now I must explain the cost involved. The company that I used (Vozo) required you to set up an account which gives you a limited amount of credits in computing power as “points”. So a 30 minute translated show would almost exhaust the entire month’s allocation of points. Should I want to make a second program that month, I needed to purchase extra points at an extra cost. Moreover, each program’s required points varied with the complexity of the translating task. Still, I was impressed with the company’s number of languages available and the number of dialects possible in each language. As you can see, I did this as an experiment only, as it can become quite costly to finance my weekly mystery show that is broadcast three times a week on various frequencies into various languages. Still, it is a wonderful communication tool, that is especially beneficial for supplying free entertainment to remote, under-served, or impoverished regions of the world. Here is a link to the Vozo website: https://www.vozo.ai/
Martin Dawson, retired minister living in Cornwall PEI
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| | “Peter’s Experience Using AI” I’ve been a member of the ChurchX group “Prophets, Priests and Prompt Engineers” for a couple of years now. We began meeting regularly, but busy schedules and life circumstances have resulted in a much more spasmodic and less frequent meeting schedule. Over the course of our gatherings I have been amazed, awed and challenged by the capability and progress of Artificial Intelligence research and proficiency. This network of people, given that is offered through ChurchX, is quite rightly concerned about the influence of Artificial Intelligence as it applies to ministry, worship, morality and Christian and faith community. Of course we’ve wondered about whether AI could ever claim to have a soul, and we’ve discussed the ethics of using AI to work on “soulful” things. We’ve also discussed the ways in which the creation of content is blurred by generative Artificial Intelligence. Can and should AI ever be used to make art or music? What is happening when we do that? Whose livelihood is being threatened? What about preaching and worship resources? Is something gained or lost when we apply Artificial Intelligence to the creative task of writing liturgy. Can it even be called “liturgy” which literally means “the work of the people”, when machines and Large Language Models are the source of the content. Of course Large Language Models are only as good as the content they are given. However, even the ethics of how the LLM models came to possess that content are questions that quite rightly come to mind - especially when we are talking about faith community - which always has a concern for the relationship between humanity and the divine - between creation and creativity - and on issues of social justice issue and holy presence. I’ve also been quite literally astounded at what AI can do! I’ve used AI to do analysis and supply insights and have been amazed at the results that have been generated. I’m an old computer programmer, so I’ve been particularly interested in the way in which AI can be used as a coding agent. It has been said that the age of coding has almost come to an end. AI is much better at remembering the precise and important syntax of programming languages, and the old programming adage of not reinventing the wheel takes on a whole new life when AI is used. There is a huge repository of programming algorithms and techniques. I’ve also used AI to limit some of the drudgery of administrative work, and to create things which I can imagine, but would never have the time or inclination to complete on my own. AI is fantastic at compiling information and sorting it into categories. It can be used as a dynamic and interactive topical concordance for Scripture. It can create aesthetically pleasing images and slides for use in worship and other resources. The calls to limit the power of AI does not fall on deaf ears with me. I am rightly awed and terrified at the ways it might be used and how it might grow into something which will be difficult to control. However, as a techie - which I see as one of the ways in which the Holy One has gifted me - I cannot stop learning, using, and being awed by this thing that human ingenuity has created. (Rev.) Peter Chynoweth, (retired). B.Math/ (Computer Science), M.Div. (Hons).
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| | Rural Church Without a Building:
If you have a story about a Rural Congregation that has sold their building, yet still meet as a Rural Congregation in rented or community space. We are looking specifically for ones who do not operate as a cafe. The rural piece is key to this and Tori Mullins is collecting these stories. Please respond directly to Tori using this email Link: Tori Mullin
Tori is the Regional Growth and Stewardship Animator for Eastern Ontario Outaouais Regional Council.
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Report on the Rural Chaplain’s Learning Event in Oklahoma City, OK
Thirty Rural Chaplains gathered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to learn about “Building Cultural Understandings”, on September 16 to 19, 2026. We met at the Best Western Airport Hotel, which was convenient to the airport, major highways and across the road from a “Cracker Barrel”. The Organizing Team arranged for two, fifteen passenger Church vans to take us to our outings and experiences. Thank you to Anne Marshall and her wonderful team for our immersion into “Tribal Nations” life in Oklahoma. Forty Eight percent of Oklahoma’s land mass is “Tribal Nations”. There are 39 Tribal Nations in Oklahoma (see map). Oklahoma was the end of the “Trail of Tears” in the 1830’s. First Nation tribes were forced out of the eastern states to uninhabited lands in the west, when President Andrew Jackson signed the “Indian Removal Act” in 1830. The land of Oklahoma was not uninhabited, as many First Nation Tribes already lived there. This learning event was hosted by the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference (OIMC) of the Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church. For three days, we were immersed in First Nations life. Wednesday evening started at the local OIMC church for a traditional “Frybread” Indian Taco Supper, and overview of the Learning Event, and Tribal Singing. Thursday; we gathered at the Oklahoma Conference Ministry Center to learn about “Shifts in Immigration”, “Voter Education”, “Challenges of Indian Education”, “State of Tribal Nations”, “Native American Health” and “Boarding Schools”. Thursday Evening we visited the Oklahoma City Memorial site. Friday; On our way, we stopped and looked around at the Oklahoma State Capitol. We traveled on to the Oklahoma City Resource Center, Muscogee Nation; where we heard about “Learning the Native Language” as an adult, and “Environmental Implications on Sovereign Lands” before we enjoyed lunch. Friday afternoon was at the Mary Lee Clark United Methodist Church where we heard stories about “Murdered and Missing Indigenous People” and met in our Working Groups and held our 2026 RCA Annual Meeting. After dinner, we worshipped in the church with the OIMC Bishop Merrill, offering the Certification of three new Rural Chaplains, and closed with Communion. What a great event filled with all aspects of First Nation achievements and Challenges. Oklahoma Tribal Nations contribute $23.4 billion annually to the state’s economy. They look after their own Health Care, Governance and Social Services. The Tribal Nations work closely with the Oklahoma State Education to meet the educational needs of their Tribal Nation. Report by Eric Skillings - Rural Chaplain |
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The 2026 Rural Ministry Conference
LeaderShift’s Rural Ministry Conference 2026 took place last weekend, with beautiful fall weather and amazing hospitality (amazing!) from Knox United Church Three Hills and St. Paul’s United Church, Trochu, AB. Attendees came from across Alberta as well as BC and Saskatchewan. Beginning Friday through Saturday, we were enriched by the encouraging and insightful words of theme speaker Rev. Dr. Catherine Smith, a United Church minister continuing her vocation as an expert in spiritual practices and rural ministry in her retirement. We’re sharing her three keynotes on our website (chinookwindsregion.ca) . You’ll also want to check out her Hem of the Light website with resources. Saturday Workshops sparked conversations ranging from Leading Worship, as a Lay Person and Having Fun Doing It with Michelle Slater; Being Treaty people: the Promise and Practice of Sovereignty with Tony Snow; Using Data to Understand Community Ministry Opportunities with Joel Den Haan; Stewardship: Inviting Generosity with Scott Reynolds; The Compass Rose of Spiritual Care with Geoffrey Simmins; Discipleship in a Rural Context with Leigh Sinclair; A Civic Faith: Navigating the Alberta Referendum with Chris Mah Poy; and Understanding, Loving and Reaching Gen Alpha! (the oldest of this generation is just turning 16) with Kevin Guenther-Trautwein. Attendees enjoyed fellowship over meals and through music and worship. The choirs of the Trochu and Three Hills United Churches (directed by choir enthusiast Louise Mantel) led the music along with Barbara Lynn Goodwin and Dave Goodwin of Stettler, AB. On Saturday evening they led us on a musical tour through music of the United Church from 1925, through the various hymnbooks we have known and loved. The congregations also organized for participants to tour local sites including Dry Island Buffalo Jump and the Trochu Arboretum. More Photos on Facebook Page HERE and HERE 3 Keynotes of Dr. Smith to Inspire Your Ministry!
Report by Chinook Hills Communicator Shelley Den Haan
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"Are you Having the Same Menu This Thanksgiving?”
Over the past year, I’ve been drawn to many articles about aging at home, in the church, and throughout the community. That interest was likely sparked while planning and sharing last October’s workshop, where we celebrated my new book, Faithful Choices, and explored many aspects of aging. My family has watched my blond hair turn white and my once 5 ft 6 inches become slightly shorter. They’ve also noticed that I’d rather find an interesting historical-fiction audiobook or dump a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle on its tilting table. When I say no thank you to my son’s invitation to go on an ATV ride, he understands. When I wish there were more seniors in our rural churches, along with people of all ages, I’m understood. One advantage of being free on a Sunday morning is that my husband and I can visit churches or watch services on television. A while ago, we went to a rural United Church where a choir of many voices entered in their robes. We sang hymns from Voices United; guitars and a keyboard played gentle, inspiring music that warmed my heart and led me into prayer. Children scattered around, finding their family pew. Last week, we attended a small country church. I had difficulty climbing the steps, but I managed, and it was probably good exercise for these tired muscles. The small sanctuary was filled mostly with seniors. The singing was inspiring, and the conversation was energizing. When I served in the church, we had a big sign that read, ‘Everybody Welcome.’ In hindsight, people believed it. That same church will host a Thanksgiving dinner. When I look at my plate, it’ll remind me of the meal my mother served so many years ago: slices of turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, turnip, and all the rest I’ve eaten for most of my eighty-plus years. I’m not a betting person, but I’d bet most of us will have the same menu this Thanksgiving as we did as children. One year, we were invited to a Thanksgiving dinner featuring cold salads, slices of various meats, and several plates of tasty pickles. Everything was delicious, and I think I had a second helping of a few dishes. But deep in my heart, I left the table wanting more. Give me the old menu, anytime.
Thoughts shared By Rev. Donna Mann |
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| October 28, 2026, 2:30 p.m. ET November 25, 2026, 2:30 p.m. ET |
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| 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.
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| | Regional Meetings and UCRMN: |
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| 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. |
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| | 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, Yvonne and Ray |
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