Northern Spirit Regional Council

Learning gathering on unmarked burials
2025-02-27 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Edmonton) | Southminster-Steinhauer United Church, 10740-19 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6J 6W9
Our Sacred Responsibilities: learning from the Unmarked Burials report and challenging settler denial.
All people of all backgrounds welcome to this day-long learning gathering, open to Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. We will focus somewhat on the United Church’s responsibilities, but all backgrounds are welcome as a full part of the day, and we will not focus only on the United Church.
Together we will learn about the recent report on unmarked burials; explore what reparations means; learn about the problem of settler denialism; and practice together how to challenge it. Speakers and knowledge keepers will help us, and all who come are full participants in helping each other and our communities create a good path forward.
Community, prayer, ceremony, and cultural supports will be part of our day. A separate support space is also available to First Nations, Métis and Inuit, respecting that this is a hard topic.
Practical details
Please click here to register. Registration is free but required, so we can plan for meals.
The full reports from the Office of the Special Interlocutor on Unmarked Burials are available here. (They’re long, which is one of the reasons we’re offering this learning space.)
Click here for a PDF poster to share with your community. You can also use the image at the top of this page.
Resource people: elder Wilson Bearhead (invited); elder Dennis Paul; knowledge keepers Rev John Snow and Rev Tony Snow; Sara Stratton, Reconciliation and Justice Animator at the General Council of the United Church.
Plan for our day: 9:30 gathering and coffee; program begins at 10:00AM; we will finish no later than 4:00PM. Our day will include (among other things): prayer and ceremony; an overview of key parts of the report on unmarked burials; reflection from a survivor; what do we and the report mean by “reparations”; what is settler denial, and how can we challenge it?
Our space: The building is fully accessible, and we will be using mics to assist those with hearing needs. We will be in a space where Christian symbols are minimal, and where smudging and medicines will be part of our day. There is parking on site, and transit a block away. Lunch and snacks included.
Travel costs for First Nations, Métis, and Inuk participants will be covered.
Organized by Indigenous Ministries and Justice of the United Church; Northern Spirit Regional Council: The United Church of Canada; and the Edmonton Cluster of the Being Good Relations Network. Thank you to Spiritual Seekers United in Community/ Southminster-Steinhauer United Church for hosting.

From the Heart: understanding the impacts of AB's anti-transgender laws
2025-05-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Riverbend United Church, 14907 45 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5V6, Canada
This event is now done, and the video is available here.
Join us for personal stories of the impacts of Bills 26, 28, and 29 on Albertan athletes, teachers, parents, children, and church members. Learn together how we can take action in support of gender-diverse people. Please save and share the image above, and use freely. Here’s the scheduled YouTube link.
In 2024 Alberta passed the legislation needed to put in place major medical and athletic restrictions on transgender people, and restrictions on sexual health education and gender expression in the school system. The result: the most restrictive laws in Canada. The legislation is facing legal and Charter challenges, and has met with fierce resistance from gender-diverse people and allies, as well as strong criticism from a range of professional associations.
Behind the headlines and debates, what is happening for transgender people in Alberta? This isn’t only a legal and legislative matter; it has lived impacts on people’s bodies, minds, hearts, and spirit. We thank our speakers, who are joining us to speak about the impact on their lives. We invite you to come with an open mind and heart, and hear their stories, no matter your opinion on this legislation. Come and listen, discuss, and learn together.
Our speakers
Mickey Wilson, chair of the Northern Spirit Affirming Committee, will be our moderator.
paskwa mostos papamohtêw, Emery Whiskeyjack
tanisi paskwa mostos papamohtêw, Emery Whiskeyjack, nitisiyihkâson. My name is Wandering Buffalo Spirit, Emery Whiskeyjack. Ohci niya onihcikiskwapowin, I am from Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 6 Territory. I am a 23 year old, 2-Spirit Transmasc multidisciplinary artist residing in amiskwaciywaskahikan. I am in a confident place of being unapologetically myself, thanks to going through my rites of passage where I learned a powerful nehiyawewin affirmation, “niya oma niya (I am who I am)”. I am passionate about co-libertating, reclaiming and connecting to my land, language, and culture. Making art feeds my spirit and is a visual exploration of my story and others like me. I want to continue to share with the world the beauty and complexity of being a tastawiniw/ihkwew.

Lana Whiskeyjack
Lana Whiskeyjack is a nêhiyaw Indigiologist from the Saddle Lake Cree Nation, currently serving as an associate professor in the Department of Women’s and Gender Studies. Dr. Whiskeyjack is an award-winning scholartist (scholar and artist), author, and spirit-centered community-based researcher. She is acclaimed for her work in Indigenous arts-based practices and research; sexual health and wellness; and cultural and language revitalization. Contributing to ending gender and sexual violence through violence-informed and strength-based practices is her long life learning and vision. Her years in researching womanhood, sexual health and spirit of Cree language contributes to her current research on supporting gender and sexuality diverse Indigenous kin and their families through ceremonial transitions as well as rematriation-based violence prevention work with Indigenous men and boys.

Amanda Barrett
Amanda Barrett is a Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression Consultant and High School Counsellor in Edmonton, Alberta. Her work centres on the support of sexual and gender minority children and youth along with the fostering of good mental health for all students. Amanda’s commitment to the creation of inclusive, safe, and healthy work and learning environments is informed by her studies (most recently the completion of her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology) and many volunteer experiences. Amanda (she/her) is an educator with over 20 years of experience, dedicated to fostering growth and development in diverse learning environments. Throughout her career, she has worked as a teacher, librarian, counselor, and consultant, using her expertise to support students, professionals, and organizations. Amanda is deeply committed to social justice, with extensive volunteer work within queer and trans communities, advocating for inclusivity and equality. Her passion for education and community engagement drives her to empower others, creating safe, supportive spaces for all.

Allison Hadley
Allison Hadley is a Healthcare Worker, Author, Artist, Activist and recreational athlete. Born and raised in Edmonton, she dedicates much of her spare time helping and building the 2SLGBTQ+ community – in hopes that the roads travelled by future generations will be easier than the one she had to take. A lifelong lover of sport, before her gender transition, Allison competed internationally in three different sports. She is passionate about education and has already facilitated three workshops discussing the proposed harmful legislation in Alberta. Allison has also spoken at Trangender Day of Remembrance and Pride events in Alberta, Ontario and Quebec.
Rachel Young
Rachel Young is a member of the Northern Spirit Affirming Committee. Her home community of faith is Grace United Church in Lloydminster. Rachel volunteers on the Worship Committee, Vacation Bible School and Christian Development. She also participates and collaborates with other committees at Grace with their growth within the Pride Community. She believes in the affirmation and celebration of all people as well as advocating for the rights and protections of others. Rachel is currently discerning her role in Diaconal Ministry and advancing her post-secondary studies at Lakeland College as a Candidate Minister.
This public space is part of the Northern Spirit Regional Council annual meeting, and is offered by the Regional Council’s Affirming Committee.

Book Tour: Queer and Christian with author Rev. Brandan Robertson
2025-07-25 19:00 - 20:30 | Robertson-Wesley United Church, 10209 123 st, Edmonton, Alberta, T5N 1N3, Canada
Join author and activist, Rev. Brandan Robertson for a book signing and Q&A evening. His most recent book, Queer & Christian is not only a compelling interpretation of key biblical texts but also an inspiring testament to the resilience and faith of queer Christians. It serves as a vital resource for anyone seeking to understand how queer identity and Christian faith can coexist, providing theological insights and practical advice to empower queer Christians and their allies.
*Books will be available for sale at the event*
https://www.brandanrobertson.com/queer-christian-book

Launch: Here from the Beginning exhibit
2025-07-27 15:30 - 17:00 | Pilgrim United Church, 9008-135 Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5E 1N4, Canada
Pilgrim United Church in Edmonton, Alberta, announces the opening of: “Here From the Beginning”, a tribute to the profound contributions of Black communities to The United Church of Canada. This milestone event, part of the United Church’s 100th anniversary year, will open its doors on July 27, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. Full information about the virtual and travelling exhibits, and a nationwide story-collecting journey, are here on the website.
This groundbreaking exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the rich and resilient history of Black people within The United Church of Canada. Through stories of leadership, struggle, and triumph, the exhibition highlights the indelible mark left by Black individuals and communities on the church’s history, work, and calling. Please join us for this launch and celebration! The date has been set to work alongside Emancipation Day in Canada, August 1, which marks the actual day in 1834 that the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect across the British Empire.
Feel free to save and use the image above widely; here is a PDF version of the same poster.

Leduc: In person witness of the UCC Apology to Two Spirit LGBTQIA+people
2025-08-08 08:00 - 11:30 | St. David’s United Church, Leduc, 4614 - 48 St., Leduc, Alberta, T9E 5X7, Canada
St David’s United Church invites you to attend a viewing of the United Church’s Apology to Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people within a warm, caring Circle of Support, August 8, 2025.
Join us at 4614 48 Street, Leduc, AB to participate online in worship and the formal Apology from the United Church of Canada. This is open to all. You do not need to be part of the United Church to join the circle.
Schedule:
8:30am Mountain Daylight Time- Gathering
9am The Apology: Witness the Apology via livestream.
After the Apology, we will gently hold space together for as long as needed. Refreshments will be supplied.
Here is more background on the United Church’s apology.
More details on the participation options on August 8.
Overview of the Apology’s process of creation.

Sherwood Park: In-person community: United Church’s Apology to 2SLGBTQIA+ people
2025-08-08 08:30 - 13:00 | Sherwood Park United Church, 20 Fir St, Sherwood Park, Alberta, T8A 1Z6, Canada
Sherwood Park United Church invites you to attend a viewing of the United Church’s Apology to Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people within a warm, caring Circle of Support, August 8, 2025.
Join us at 20 Fir St, Sherwood Park AB to participate online in worship and the formal Apology from the United Church of Canada. *Sherwood Park United Church is an Affirming Community of Faith.* This is open to all. You do not need to be part of the United Church to join the circle.
Schedule:
8:30am Mountain Daylight Time- Gathering: Muffins, coffee, tea & juice.
9am The Apology: Witness the Apology via Zoom on the large screen.
After the Apology, we will gently hold space together for as long as needed.
Here is more background on the United Church’s apology.
More details on the participation options on August 8.
Overview of the Apology’s process of creation.

God-Talks from Diasporic Filipino Ministers in the UCC
2025-09-25 12:30 - 14:00 | Zoom
Our lunch time Intercultural Coffee Chai series resumes!
Thursday, Sept 25, 2025, 12:30pm MDT and CST/1:30pm CDT (90 minutes).
Intercultural Stories and Narratives: God-Talks from Diasporic Filipino Ministers in the United Church of Canada
Bring your lunch and join us as we resume the Western Intercultural Ministries Network 100th Anniversary series honouring ethno-cultural communities within the United Church.
The Filipino Ministers Network in The United Church of Canada invites you to join them for a panel discussion about seeking God in the midst of every-day life. In the Philippines, theologizing is embodied in everyday life; not seen as a separate religious category or exercise. Faith grows out of our lived experience: life-stories, turning points, crises and celebrations. God is active in shaping our everyday decision-making.
We’ve invited three Filipino ministers to reflect on their own faith-journeys, and describe how they have come to talk about God differently with each other, and with the congregations they lead. They’ll talk about how being immigrants to Canada has shaped their understanding of God, and how theologies emerging in the Philippines can enrich their life and work within the Canadian church and culture.
Join us to broaden your theological imagination!
Zoom info:
https://united-church.zoom.us/j/81253431672?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 812 5343 1672 Password: [REDACTED]
Phone as needed: 855 703 8985 Canada Toll-free
Panelists, Topics, and Bios

Rev. Noel Suministrado,“A Filipino Theology of Diaspora; Some Initial Notes and Reflections”

Rev. Noel Suministrado was born in Tayabas, Quezon, Philippines. He is an ordained minister of United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) and took his theological studies in Union Theological Seminary, Philippines, and the Master of Ecumenical Studies in Bossey Ecumenical Institute and University of Geneva in Switzerland.
Before he came to Canada, he taught Ecumenical Theology in Union Theological Seminary and was the first minister to be assigned in the Mutual Recognition of Ministry Personnel Agreement program of the UCC in 2017. He served Broadway Disciples United Church in Winnipeg for four years and Hamiota United Church of which is his present pastoral charge.
Among his involvements are: UCC -Roman Catholic Dialogue, the International Dialogue of the Disciples of Christ -Roman Catholic Church, the Commission of Faith and Witness of the Canadian Council of Churches and is currently member of Theology Interchurch and InterFaith Committee (TICIF) of the United Church of Canada.

Rev. Kim Vidal, “Embodying the Mary-Martha Paradigm of Ministry”

Rev. Kim Vidal lives in the city of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and is currently serving Bells Corners United Church, in her 12th year. Kim was born in the Philippines and was baptized and confirmed in the United Methodist Church. She immigrated to Ottawa, Ontario in 1994 and transferred her membership to Wesley United Church (Ottawa) in 1995. She completed her Bachelor of Theology degree at St. Paul University in Ottawa (1996) and then garnered her Master of Divinity at Queen’s Theological College in Kingston, Ontario (2008). She was ordained at the annual general meeting of the Ottawa-Montreal Conference of the United Church of Canada in 2009.

Rev. Ariel Siagan, “Christian Activism Among Filipino Diasporic Communities”

Rev Siagan is currently finishing his PhD thesis at Trinity College, University of Toronto. He completed his Master’s degree in Theology in Seoul, South Korea and then gained six years of congregational ministry experience in the Philippines. He also has ten years of ecumenical experience with the National Council of Churches in the Philippines.

Affirming Donut Meeting!
2025-11-01 10:00 - 14:30 | Southminster-Steinhauer United Church, 10740-19 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6J 6W9
We’re trying this event again, and this time we’re including both the area around Edmonton (the donut) and Edmonton itself (the timbit!)
All Affirming and affirming-curious / supportive ministries and all affirming people welcome. Your ministry can send as a many people as you like!
We’re focusing on Edmonton and the rural and smaller town circle all around Edmonton- imagine a big circle around 90 minutes’ drive wide all around Edmonton. Rural, small town, and bigger town, come join us. We need your diverse voices and experiences. Come for support, visiting, planning together, and lunch.
Planned and hosted by the Northern Spirit Regional Council Affirm Team.
Please register here so we have numbers for lunch.
Please click here to download the PDF poster.
You can right click or hold your finger down on the image to save it; use freely!
Questions? Contact staff (to protect committee members’ email information): Julie Graham, jgraham@united-church.ca or ChloeBurns, chburns@united-church.ca and we will pass your note on.
