It’s challenging being a mainstream Christian church these days, in Canada. Declining membership, aging congregations, questions about relevancy, not to mention dealing with the Indian residential school legacy, witness Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Yet, paradoxically, there is opportunity. Opportunity to reach out, engage, dialogue, explore new possibilities. This is the approach The United Church […]
Haliburton Community Farm: A collaborative model worth emulating
June 27, 2010 by · 1 Comment
We need more places like Haliburton Farm. Last month, I partook in a farm tour, dinner and conversation there. This week I visited this local farm to chat a bit more with Elmarie Roberts, one of the farmers working the property. Our conversation reinforced my view that Haliburton Farm is a powerful, collaborative community model […]
11 Good reasons to support your community dance
June 6, 2010 by · 1 Comment
While we’re investing in building and nurturing collaborative habits, let’s not forget that many tight-knit communities have learned, survived, and prospered, by working AND playing together. So, let me suggest something for the playing, community dancing. 11 reasons why I’m a big fan of traditional, community-oriented music and dance. I previously shared my reasons why […]
Lessons in community values and culture from the Canadian outposts
April 30, 2010 by · Leave a Comment
Communities that are isolated from the mainstream population often develop distinct, rich cultures, based on a firmly established set of values and practices. There are many examples of these communities in Canada, from sea to sea to sea. Yet, a strong set of values is no guarantee that community or its culture will persist. And […]
