Like many churches across Canada, regular attendance is not what it used to be. In rural communities especially, an aging population and a global pandemic have also kept people away. Old Barns United in Lower Truro, Nova Scotia is no exception, averaging about thirty people every Sunday, according to Bob Francis, a member of the Board of Stewards and Trustees.

FCG Communications Manager and writer, Beatrice Ekoko had a conversation with Priyanka Lloyd, Executive Director of Green Economy Canada (GEC) for this Partner Feature blog post. Priyanka helped to start the organization as the founding director, back in 2014 to scale a successful program from Waterloo Region.

Priyanka!

Trinity Church (Rose Bay, NS) - Wooden Frame Exterior. Source: John Hayne

'Thermal mass' describes a material's capacity to absorb, store and release heat. Thermal movement – the transferring of heat – occurs much faster in materials with low thermal mass (eg. wood) than materials with high thermal mass (eg. bricks). These types of materials experience higher thermal conductivity than materials that absorb, store and release heat at a lower rate. Thermal Insulation helps to reduce the movement of heat between materials, especially of those with low thermal mass. 

Knowing that you love the earth changes you, activates you to defend and protect and celebrate. But when you feel that the earth loves you in return, that feeling transforms the relationship from a one-way street into a sacred bond ― Robin Wall Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass

Planting for nature: From coast to coast to coast

Written by Saba Khan, EnviroMuslims.

Art by Shannon Loomer of ThinkLink Graphics

Leo Mol stained glass windows, Westworth United Church. Source: westworth.ca/about-us/history/

Known for the stunning Leo Mol stained glass windows in its 63-year-old sanctuary, Westworth United Church, in Winnipeg, Manitoba is also broadly celebrated in the community for its commitment to supporting local groups and refugee families.

The Sandy-Saulteaux Spiritual Centre is an accredited theological college located one mile east of Beausejour, Manitoba that offers cross-cultural learning and Indigenous ministry training, as well as a peaceful place on the land for retreats, meetings and gatherings. Its vision is to create a place where First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and Christian spiritual beliefs are respected, shared, and understood.  

Written by Dorcas Beaton, member of Metropolitan United Church.

Native species garden