October Opportunities for Leaders of First Third Ministry

Dear *|FNAME|*
On this cool, fall Tuesday, I have been reflecting on giving thanks. One of our team members shared with me a Thanksgiving Story video created by The GO Project. It tells the Thanksgiving story by shedding light on the violence and oppression since settler arrival on Turtle Island. It is important to be thankful for things in our lives for which we are grateful AND seek change for present and future relationships on this land. You can share this video with the families you lead as we continue the walk the path of truth and reconciliation. 

In reflecting on giving thanks, I give thanks for each of you in your leadership with children, youth and families. In this year and half, you have worked harder and longer than we have ever imagined. You have gone deep into our creativity and drawn on our faith.  Thank you.  I give thanks to God for your commitment to young people and their families. You are a gift to this United Church of ours, and we are blessed because of your work in ministry. I hope that you have had time to notice the places in your ministry and lives that fill you up with gratitude and sustain you for this ministry.

Last week the First Third Ministry regional staff team held our 4-day strategic planning retreat. I am grateful for the time we had together to focus on our vision, team building and planning for 2022. I feel blessed to be a part of this amazing group of people focused on first third ministry. 

Fall Opportunities for First Third Ministry Leaders, and your congregations!

• A small group opportunity for leaders in first third ministry begins TONIGHT: Planning for First Third - A Way Forward. Time is set aside in four weekly 1-hour sessions (no gathering on Oct 27) to hear from each other and each of our first third ministry context. As first third ministry leaders, each of us are in a unique position - whether part of in-person workshop and programming, online-only gatherings, or a strange combination of both. In Planning for First Third - a Way Forward, we will take time to learn from one another and support each other. Register here.
• The First Third Leaders Online Gathering continues to take place each week on Tuesdays.  I have organized guests to join us about once a month. October 19, Terra McKenzie, Executive Director for Camp Fircom will join us. November 9, Rev. Julie Lees with Vancouver School of Theology will join us. Look for updates on guests on our website. Register here.
• We have room at our Imagine Family retreat on Gambier Island. Perhaps you might consider joining us with your family? If you are yearning for time safely gathering with other United Church people, and wanting to breath deeply in the forest, or dance with ocean and drift logs at your feet, the Imagine Family Camp is for you and yours! Register here.

Grace and Peace to you,
Rev Mary Nichol
Regional Minister Children & Families