Northern Spirit Regional Council

From the Heart: understanding the impacts of AB's anti-transgender laws
2025-05-30 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Edmonton) | 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.

Sweet Soulful Spring Concert
2025-05-30 19:30 - 21:30 | Mill Woods United Church, 15 Grand Meadow Cres, Edmonton, AB, T6L 1A1, Canada
Mill Woods United Church is hosting a Music Concert on May 30th, 2025, 7:30 pm as a fundraiser for our programs (outreach such as Bread Run, Clothing Bank, music, etc).
Join us to listen to a variety of musicians performing easy listening music with a little soul, including our Vocal Choir, Handbells of Mill Woods United Church, United Harmony bells from Sherwood Park United Church, SALA String Quartet, and other musicians and soloists, all with the theme of Sweet Soulful music.
We are located at 15 Grand Meadow Crescent in Millwoods. Admission is by donation and the doors open at 7:00 pm. Looking forward to seeing you!

All 4 Fun – A Theatrical Showcase by The 9th Street Players
2025-05-30 19:30 - 2025-06-01 22:00 | Spirit of Hope United Church, 7909 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Join The 9th Street Players for All 4 Fun, an entertaining evening (or afternoon!) of one-act plays filled with laughter, charm, and a little madness. Directed by Marie Fontaine, this engaging showcase features four short plays:
Final Curtain by Frank Gibbons
The Accident by Herb Hasler
Rhyming Mother Goose by Richard Coleman
A Mad Breakfast by Isabel M. Gray
Come support local theatre and enjoy a delightful performance at Spirit of Hope United Church.
Dates and Times:
Friday, May 30 at 7:30 PM (Doors open at 7:00 PM)
Saturday, May 31 at 7:30 PM (Doors open at 7:00 PM)
Sunday, June 1 at 1:30 PM (Doors open at 1:00 PM)
Location:
Spirit of Hope United Church
7909 – 82 Avenue, Edmonton, AB
Phone: 780-468-1418
Ticket Prices:
Adults: $20
Seniors: $15
Children: $5
How to Get Tickets:
Email: officeadmin.spiritofhope@shaw.ca
OR visit: edmontonarts.ca/event-category/shop-services-events
Presented by:
The 9th Street Players
By arrangement with Lazy Bee Scripts and Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

Celebration of Ministries and 100th Anniversary service
2025-06-01 10:00 - 12:30 | Riverbend United Church, 14907 45 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5V6, Canada
Join us in person at Riverbend United Church, and online on YouTube, as we honour past and future with prayer, worship, and song! YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/live/qjPnIQkVnwo If you’re joining us by livestream, please bring communion elements.
General Secretary Rev Michael Blair will offer the sermon. We will welcome people into the order of ministry in the United Church via admission from other denominations and share in communion. We celebrate together the 100th anniversary of the United Church of Canada, born June 10, 1925. ASL interpretation will be offered.
All are welcome to this service- and we mean all! We are a Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ affirming Regional Council. The deaf and hard of hearing community is especially welcome as we work with ASL interpretation for the first time; hearing assist is also available in-person.
Communion is a deeply meaningful religious and spiritual ritual for Christians, and the United Church believes that the communion table is Christ’s, not ours. It is therefore open to everyone of all beliefs and religious, spiritual, and ceremonial paths. At communion, we eat a small amount of bread and drink a little grape juice (the United Church does not use wine for communion). There will be a gluten-free option. If you are worshipping online, please bring communion elements that have meaning to you.

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.

Centennial High Tea
2025-06-07 13:00 - 15:00 | CETC Building, 5400 22 Ave, Drayton Valley, AB, T7A 1B3, Canada
Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the United Church of Canada with us! Good friends to visit, Canadian treats to savour, harp music to soothe, Fair Trade tea and coffee to quench the thirst, displays to explore and more! Tickets are free – available at Value Drug , but must be presented at the door. All are welcome!

Sherwood Park United invites you to Celebrate the 100th Anniversary!
2025-06-08 10:00 - 14:00 | Sherwood Park United Church, 20 Fir St, Sherwood Park, Alberta, T8A 1Z6, Canada
‘Simple’ but “Meaningful 100th”
We are all on this journey to June 8, 2025. TOGETHER.
Sunday School Children collecting 100 gifts each for the food bank and Bissell Centre.
Adults “Sharing a Prayer” – will be a take home gift to each attendee June 8th .
History & Musical quizzes.
Celebratory Service with inter-generational communion.
Sit down luncheon to follow – NO Charge.
You’re invited and will be warmly welcomed!

100th Anniversary Celebration at Fort Edmonton Park
2025-06-08 10:00 - 17:00 | Fort Edmonton, 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada
This is an opportunity to celebrate the United Church of Canada’s 100th anniversary at Fort Edmonton Park (7000 143 St NW, Edmonton, AB). There will be opportunities to share in afternoon worship at the McDougall Methodist church on 1885 street, celebrate with cake and there is exploration occurring to livestream the National Worship service from Newfoundland!
The park is open from 10am – 5pm. There will be a morning service provided for folks travelling from afar.

Rainbow Community Fun Fest
2025-06-09 14:00 - 20:00 | Spirit of Hope United Church, 7909 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada
Everyone is invited to this fun community event for all ages. Activities begin at 2 pm with open gym, crafts, games and cookie/ cupcake decorating. You won’t want to miss the potluck supper at 5! Feel free to drop in for the whole afternoon – or just for supper. And bring friends and family. This is not a religious event, and is queer-friendly.
Yes, we will figure out how to watch the first period of the game together!

Youth Hangout for Queer and Allied Youth
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
All queer and allied youth are invited to hangout at Sprit of Hope United Church to enjoy time together making crafts, playing games and sharing snacks. The gym will be open for active sports! No charge. Supplies and snacks will be provided. Free Wi-Fi!
Drop by anytime between 4 and 6!
This event is coordinated by a youth planning team, sponsored by Spirit of Hope United Church, pflag and Alberta Health Services.

Kirk Centre AGM
2025-06-19 19:00 - 20:00 | Kirk United Church Community Centre, 13535 122 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5L 2V7, Canada
📣 You’re Invited! Join Us for Kirk Centre’s AGM 🏛️🌟
We warmly invite community members, partners, and supporters to attend Kirk Centre’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday, June 19th at 7:00 PM.
Come hear about everything we’ve accomplished together this past year—and where we’re headed next! From expanding our community partnerships to advocating for social purpose real estate, your involvement helps shape the future of this vibrant hub.
🗓️ Date: Thursday, June 19th
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Kirk Centre – 13535 122 Ave NW, Edmonton
Everyone is welcome—whether you’re curious about what we do, want to get involved, or just love seeing community thrive.

Centennial Celebration
2025-06-21 11:00 - 15:00 | Camrose United Church, 4829-50 Street, Camrose, AB, T4V 1P6, Canada
11 a.m. Pot Luck Lunch (who does it better than a church that’s been practicing for 100 years?)
Followed by a short program.
Many displays from our committees and partners in the building and in the community.

Free community BBQ!
2025-06-22 11:00 - 15:00 | St. Andrew’s United Church, Spruce Grove, 1A Fieldstone Drive,, Spruce Grove, Alberta, Canada
Holy Smokes, We’re turning 100 as The United Church of Canada So come and Meat us as we’re throwing a Free community BBQ!!!
Join us as we celebrate the United Church of Canada’s 100th Anniversary and St. Andrews’ 185 years of faithful service, being present, and welcoming all in this Community with a FREE BBQ!!!!
ALL ARE WELCOME!!!!
When: Sunday, June 22 @ 11 am at St. Andrews United Church Come Celebrate with food, friends, and community!
There will be a Free will offering for those who wish to help support this Free Event. Give what you can, eat what you can!

Centennial Worship at Camrose United Church
2025-06-22 12:00 - 16:00 | Camrose United Church, 4829-50 Street, Camrose, AB, T4V 1P6, Canada
We invite all of our UCC neighbours to join us to celebrate the Centennial of the United Church of Canada.
Noon — Lunch is provided
1:30 p.m. Worship.

"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.

Centennial Butterfly Release
2025-07-05 13:00 - 14:00 | Grace United Church, 6215 104 Ave, Edmonton, AB, Canada
In honour of the United Church of Canada Centennial, Grace United Church, Edmonton, is releasing 100 butterflies! All are welcome!
For a free will donation, you can dedicate one (or more) of these Painted Lady butterflies and participate in their release!
As you dedicate a butterfly you are invited to:
Reflect on a memory or something you’re thankful for about the United Church of Canada.
Offer a hope or prayer for the Church’s future.
Honour the memory of a loved one.
Donations support the life, work and ministry of Grace United Church.
Can’t Donate? No problem, everyone is welcome to take part!
Donations over $10 will receive a charitable tax receipt.
Dedications will be shared in the bulletin July 6, and at the release.
To dedicate your butterflies, contact Grace United Church
6215 104 AVE NW, Edmonton, 780.466.0916 or grace.united@shaw.ca
Dedication Deadline June 29

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.

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 | Alberta
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.

Kirk Centre's Free Summer Concert
2025-08-23 14:00 - 16:30 | Kirk United Church Community Centre, 13535 122 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5L 2V7, Canada
Join us for an afternoon of music, dance, culture, and community at Kirk Centre’s Free Summer Concert! On Saturday, August 23rd from 2:00 to 4:30 PM, gates open at 1:30PM. Our parking lot transforms into a vibrant celebration of multicultural performances, fun, and family-friendly vibes with performances by Robin Cisek, Demaris Moon Walker, Marco Cleveria, Andes Soul Edmonton, ACOAC Dance Group and HanBeat Samulnori, free face painting for kids and some great local vendors with food and beverage for purchase!. Bring a lawn chair, grab a friend, scoop up your family and celebrate the summer with us!

Decolonizing Ourselves: Residential School Tour and Our Future in Treaty
2025-09-06 10:30 - 16:30 | Blue Quills University, AB, Canada
Saturday 6 September 10:30AM-4:30PM MDT/ CST. Please join KAIROS Prairies North for a day that will include a tour of the former Blue Quills Indian Residential School building led by survivors/Elders, lunch, and learning about Treaty. All welcome! This in-person only event is within a reasonable drive of the Edmonton area to the west and the Battlefords area to the east.
Location: University nuhelot’įne thaiyots’į nistameyimâkanak Blue Quills https://maps.app.goo.gl/XSB36ayBQbZMbxKh7
This gathering is hosted by the KAIROS Prairies North Decolonization Group with gratitude to our community partners, in particular University nuhelot’įne thaiyots’į nistameyimâkanak Blue Quills and the United Church of Canada’s Reconciliation and Justice Fund. This gathering is free of charge, including lunch. We do ask you to register, please, so we know numbers and can send you material.
Optional free transportation (carpooling) from Edmonton will be offered and details will follow by email.
Registration: https://kairoscanada.org/event/decolonizing-ourselves-residential-school-tour-and-our-future-in-treaty
