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2026 Shining Waters
Regional Council Meeting,
Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24, 2026
“Being Transformed by the Renewing of our Minds” (Romans 12:2)

You are invited to gather with us for the 2026 Shining Waters Regional Council Meeting, taking place October 23–24, 2026. We will once again be offering a hybrid meeting, so folks can attend either online via Zoom or in-person at New Beginnings United Church (formerly known as North Bramalea United Church). Then stay for our Celebration of Ministries Service on Saturday evening starting at 6:30 p.m.— livestreamed on our YouTube channel for anyone who cannot be there in person.

Together, we will share in a time of connection, reflection, and renewal as we explore this year’s theme: “Being Transformed by the Renewing of our Minds” (Romans 12:2). Come and be part of a meaningful time of community, inspiration, and spiritual growth.

More details and meeting resources will be shared in the coming weeks and on our website as they become available. We look forward to seeing you there!

Registration is now open! The deadline to register with meal options is October 14, 2026.
 
Register Now
Our Guest Speaker
We are delighted to welcome Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Yartekwei Lartey, an internationally respected theologian, minister, educator, and author. 

Born in Ghana and serving in ministry and theological education for more than four decades, Emmanuel is widely recognized for his pioneering work in intercultural pastoral care and spiritual care. Through his teaching, writing, and leadership, he has inspired communities around the world to embrace compassion, understanding, and faith across cultures.
You can read more about Emmanuel on our website. 
Proposal Process
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCxtemeSH-g

A portion of the 2026 Shining Waters Regional Council Meeting agenda will be considering and voting on proposals intended for action by the Regional Council.  The deadline for submitting proposals for the 2026 Regional Meeting is October 14, 2026.

Proposals can be created to be considered by the Regional Council or the Regional Council Executive. A “proposal” is a formal request for the council to take action. It is one way that a United Church member may raise an issue that is important to them and ask for the church to take action on it. The 2026 Manual, Section F.1 describes in detail how a proposal may be submitted. 

2026 The Manual : https://united-church.ca/sites/default/files/2026-01/the-manual-2026.pdf

SWRC 2026 Proposal Template: Word | PDF

All proposals should be submitted to Susan Whitehead at swhitehead@united-church.ca
Nominations
The strength of Shining Waters Regional Council comes from the wisdom, diversity, and dedication of people who are willing to serve. By offering your time, experience, and perspective, you can help shape the future of our church and support thriving ministries across the region. 
We encourage you to explore these current opportunities to get involved, share them with others who may be interested, and consider where your gifts might best be used. Together, we can continue building a vibrant, inclusive, and faithful future for our communities of faith.

You can learn more through our video series and additional information found here: Get Involved - Shining Waters We also invite you to fill our our nomination expression of interest form. We are hoping to prepare the report for the Regional Meeting on October 14th so we would ask that applications be submitted by Friday, October 9th.
 
Dates to Remember for the Regional Meeting
Nominations Deadline: Friday, October 9, 2026
Proposals Deadline: Wed., October 14, 2026
Order Meals Deadline: Wed., October 14, 2026
Regional Council Meeting: Friday, October 23 and Saturday October 24, 2026
Celebration of Ministries Service: Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
Register Now
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Shining Waters Regional Council