Northern Spirit Regional Council

Dawn, Her Dad and the Tractor
2023-09-17 12:30 - 14:30 (America/Edmonton) | Spirit of Hope United Church, 7909 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Spirit of Hope is pleased and honoured to offer a special viewing of this award-winning Canadian movie. Admission is by donation to the Dawn Fund to support trans youth.
This movie is about a young trans woman and her estranged father as they begin to restore the old family tractor. They cautiously rebuild their relationship and come to understand the mechanics of the heart.

Northern Spirit Celebration of Ministries service
2023-10-21 16:00 - 18:00 | Kirk United Church Community Centre, 13535 122 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5L 2V7, Canada
Northern Spirit Celebration of Ministries service!

October 21, 2023, 4:00 p.m., at Kirk United Church Community Centre, 13535 122 Ave, Edmonton AB and via livestream on the Regional Council YouTube channel.

Myeongnam Park and Sungsoon Park will be ordained, and Linda Roberts will be recognized; we will also covenant with Regional staff member Adam Hall, Pastoral Relations minister. Regional Council chairperson Rev Helen Reed will offer the reflection, and we will share in communion together. Treats and coffee to follow the service.
Please note that the members of the former Affirming Task Group have decided to postpone the Affirming Celebration that was to have taken place at the same service until there is more capacity for planning a celebration that can include as many people in the Regional Council as possible.

Come celebrate with us!

Creating a Culture of Respect for Gender and Sexual Diversity: Wetaskiwin
2023-11-07 09:30 - 12:30 | First United Church Wetaskiwin, 5115 - 51 Ave, Wetaskiwin, Alberta, T9A 0V3, Canada
First United Church, Wetaskiwin is pleased to host Creating a Culture of Respect for Gender and Sexual Diversity – 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, Nov. 7, 2023 at First UC, 5115 – 51 Ave. Wetaskiwin.

Learn how to create more inclusive environments and safer spaces for gender and sexually diverse clients, colleagues, family and community;
Deepen your understanding of sex, gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation;
Develop skills and tools to support 2SLGBTQ+ persons; and
Understand the impact of homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia.

This workshop is facilitated by Mateo Jumas, M.Ed. (He/Him) from the Centre for Sexuality in Calgary. The Centre for Sexuality has been active for over 50 years, teaching training and advocating in the areas of sexuality, healthy relationships, human rights, gender identity, sexual orientations, equality and consent. Mateo Jumas brings a sense of humour, excellent communication skills and a thoughtful and knowledgeable presence to this presentation. This is an excellent resource for communities of faith looking to create and/or enhance their affirming ministry. It could also be away to connect with other allies in your communities to create more respect and safer spaces. This particular work is partially funded by a grant through RBC, which makes it accessible for not for profits or churches.

To register: email (firstunitedwetaskiwin@gmail.com) or call (780) 352 2157
Registration fee of $10 payable by Nov. 3 to confirm your spot. (E-transfer, cash or cheque payable to First United Church)
Or contact the Centre for Sexuality to see about hosting your own event.

Affirming PIE Day prep
2024-01-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
The Affirming movements in our three Regional Councils are hosting open houses online to talk about our local plans for celebrating Affirming PIE Day: Public, Intentional, and Explicit support for 2SLGBTQIA+ people and allies. It’s also a great excuse to share in whatever desserts are a sign of celebration in your culture and area. PIE Day takes place Thursday March 14.
Come with your plans, hopes, and questions! All welcome. Please share the information by email, but do not post it on social media.
Living Skies will host a conversation on Tuesday 9 January at 6:00PM MST. Here is the Zoom info:
https://united-church.zoom.us/j/85941945044?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 859 4194 5044
Password: [REDACTED]
Phone: 855 703 8985 Canada Toll-free
Note that Prairie to Pine Regional Council’s Equity and Diversity Committee welcomes you to their open house PIE baking prep too: Click here for info about this January 31 event.

Regional prep for Affirming PIE Day
2024-01-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom, Canada
Time for dessert! Regional prep for Affirming PIE Day, Jan 9, 2024, 7:00 PM Central, 6:00 PM Mountain.
All Affirming, curious, and supportive ministries and people are invited to join Living Skies and Northern Spirit Regional Councils in the first of a series of get togethers to check in for the new year, and to plan for March 14, Affirming PIE Day.
Come with your questions, ideas, and recipes. Come with the good work you’ve been doing, and your hopes and concerns for for 2024.
Meeting info (share by email but do not post on social media, please):
https://united-church.zoom.us/j/85941945044?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 859 4194 5044 Password: [REDACTED]
Phone: 855 703 8985 Canada toll-free

An Evening with Ivan Coyote
2024-01-21 18:00 - 21:30 | Southminster-Steinhauer United Church, 10740-19 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6J 6W9
SSUC Celebrates Their 25th Affirming Anniversary with Ivan Coyote
January 21st, starting at 6:00 pm
Come celebrate our milestone affirming anniversary with a very special guest: Canadian writer, storyteller and musician Ivan Coyote! The evening will include a chance to peruse displays and learn about 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations and projects in the Edmonton area, enjoy some music from local 2SLGBTQIA+ artists, and the highlight of the evening – a presentation by Ivan Coyote with time for questions and answers.
Tickets are available through Eventbrite: click here!.
*Guests 13 and older are welcome to attend.

Regional Council Affirming Celebration and Ordination
2024-06-01 14:00 - 17:30 | Mill Woods United Church, 15 Grand Meadow Cres, Edmonton, AB, T6L 1A1, Canada
Regional Council Affirming celebration and Celebration of Ministries service, Saturday June 1 at 2:00PM, Mill Woods United Church, Edmonton!
Having completed all the requirements of Affirm United/ S’affirmer Ensemble’s process for becoming a 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming ministry, Northern Spirit Regional Council will hold its Affirming Celebration in Edmonton. It will include worship, invited guests, a livestream for the whole Region, online dessert, and an in-person Pride picnic after. Click here for the YouTube link.
All are also warmly invited to celebrate the ordination of Carrie Symondson at the same service!
Mill Woods is an accessible space and we thank them for hosting us.
We have much to celebrate together. Absolutely everyone is invited.

1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture
2024-06-09 12:30 - 14:30 | Spirit of Hope United Church, 7909 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Everyone is welcome to watch this enlightening, inspiring and challenging documentary at Spirit of Hope. An online discussion will follow at 7 pm for those who are interested in joining.
1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture is a feature documentary that follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946. It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University which unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. Featuring commentary from prominent scholars as well as opposing pastors, including the personal stories of the film’s creators.

Affirming Open House for youth (12-24) and their families
2025-01-11 15:00 - 19:00 | Spirit of Hope United Church, 7909 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Join us for food, games, crafts, prizes and resources! No charge.
This event is for all 2SLGTBQOIA+ and allies. Prior to attending, youth are encouraged to complete this short online survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeMqI7f1CwFcm5yqWq2C1XcsrILDp5antZxW-yYsfOkVs7VJA/viewform?usp=dialog
This event is part of an Alberta Health Services SOARING Project being facilitated by pflag and Spirit of Hope United Church youth. For more information or to volunteer to assist please contact Judy at community.spiritofhope@shaw.ca

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.

Youth Empowered Together Hangout for Queer and Allied Youth
2025-06-02 16:00 - 18:00, 2025-06-09 16:00 - 18:00, 2025-06-16 16:00 - 18:00, 2025-06-23 16:00 - 18:00 | Spirit of Hope United Church, 7909 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Youth between grades 7-12 are invited to drop in on Monday evenings from 4-6 during June to celebrate Pride month! These free, sensory-friendly events include a theme activity, snacks, open gym and a variety of crafting materials to explore. The many safe, welcoming spaces at Spirit of Hope are air-conditioned and have access to free WiFi. The youth leaders and adult volunteers have varied experiences, talents and clear vulnerable persons criminal record checks. Hope to see you there!!
Spirit of Hope is an Affirm United congregation. This is not a religious event.
Contact yetedmonton@gmail.com for further information.

"1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture" dinner and a movie event
2025-06-28 17:30 - 21:00 | St. Andrew’s United Church, Spruce Grove, 1A Fieldstone Drive,, Spruce Grove, Alberta, Canada
1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture is a feature documentary that follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946.
It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University which unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. Featuring commentary from prominent scholars as well as opposing pastors, including the personal stories of the film’s creators, 1946 is at once challenging, enlightening, and inspiring.
Join us for pizza, viewing and discussion. Registration is required and closes June 26. Free will offering.

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

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.

Edmonton: In person community for the Apology to 2SLGBTQIA+ communities
2025-08-08 08:30 - 11:30 | Spirit of Hope United Church, 7909 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Spirit of Hope 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 7909 82 Avenue NW, Edmonton 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.

Lloydminster: In-person community: United Church’s Apology to 2SLGBTQIA+ people
2025-08-08 08:30 - 13:00 | Grace United Church Lloydminster, 708 50 Ave, Lloydminster, AB, Canada
Grace 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 4708 50 Ave in Lloydminster to participate online in worship and the formal Apology from the United Church of Canada. *Grace 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.

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.

Vegreville: In person community for the Apology to 2SLGBTQIA+ communities
2025-08-08 08:30 - 13:00
Vegreville 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 5126 48 Ave, Vegreville, 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. Coffee & light lunch 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.

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.

Spill The T: Readings from the 2SLGBTQIA Human Library
2026-03-13 18:30 - 21:00, 2026-04-10 18:30 - 21:00, 2026-05-08 18:30 - 21:00 | Robertson-Wesley United Church, 10209 123 st, Edmonton, Alberta, T5N 1N3, Canada
THE LIBRARY IS OPEN!
In partnership with Kirk Centre, this 3-part pilot project learning series is coming to Robertson-Wesley spring 2026!
Each month in March, April and May, a different subject matter expert will present on a given topic within the 2SLGBTQIA+ experience that they have intimate knowledge of. After the initial presentation there will be ample time for the audience to ask questions of the speaker on that subject, followed by table conversations over refreshments.
Maybe there are things you don’t feel comfortable asking just a random person or loved one? Do you have an awkward or sensitive question itching to be answered? All are encouraged. Come experience a safe place for genuine curiosity and learning, where discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated. You do not need to identify as a queer person, or even know anyone who identifies as 2SLGBTQIA, to want to improve your allyship and awareness of the community. This is family friendly and all ages are welcome to participate.
This event is intended to be as accessible as possible, including ASL interpretation for the presentation and Q&A portions. RWUC has accessible washrooms, a lift and ramps throughout building. If you or another attendee need additional accommodations please reach out so the organizers can be prepared.
Official Topics and Presenters are TBD at time of posting, visit rwuc.org for the latest updated poster
Any further questions or concerns, email Peter p.graham@rwuc.org
Possible subjects to be explored (one per event):
Two Spirit Perspectives
Asexuality, intersex understanding
Queer Identity in Different Cultures
How to Be an Ally
Workplace Policies & Inclusion
Sports and 2SLGBTQIA+ Participation
Pregnancy and Queer Families
Elderhood, Aging as a Queer Person

YEG & Area Affirming Check-In 2.0
2026-03-21 10:00 - 14:30 | Southminster-Steinhauer United Church, 10740-19 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6J 6W9
We are doing it again! All Affirming and curious ministries and individuals from Edmonton and the surrounding cities, town and villages are welcome.
Saturday MARCH 21/26 10:00 aM -2:30 PM, at Southminster-Steinhauer United Church (SSUC), 10740 – 19 Ave, Edmonton.
Hosted by the Northern Spirit Affirm Team and supported by SSUC.
This is a time for learning, connecting, mutual support, and yes – sharing lunch, which is provided! Register here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/yeg-and-area-affirming-check-in.

Spill the T. - Asexuality
2026-05-08 18:30 - 21:00 | Robertson-Wesley United Church, 10209 123 st, Edmonton, Alberta, T5N 1N3, Canada
Join us for an evening of powerful stories and meaningful conversation 💬
Robertson Wesley United Church in partnership with Kirk Centre invites you to join us for:
SPILL THE T: Asexuality
📅 May 8 | ⏰ 6:30–9 PM
📍 Robertson-Wesley United Church
Hear real-life experiences from the 2S & LGBTQIA Human Library, featuring guest speakers Anna Webber and Judith LeBlanc.
This is a space to listen, learn, and connect in a respectful and inclusive environment. Everyone is welcome.
For more details: https://www.kirkcentre.ca/upcoming-events

Affirming Circle Gathering
2026-05-30 10:00 - 14:30 | St Paul’s United Church Grande Prairie, 10206 100 Avenue, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8V 0V6, Canada
Join us Saturday May 30, St. Paul’s United Church, 10:00AM-2:30PM. All 2SLGBTQIA+ Affirming and Affirming- curious ministries and individuals from Grand Prairie and all the surrounding towns and villages are welcome to this time of sharing and community. Yes, there will be a free lunch, and a lot of community and story-sharing.
Hosted by the Northern Spirit Affirm Team. For more details, please contact nsaffirm@gmail.com

REGISTER HERE:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/nw-affirming-circle-gathering
