On Wednesday, August 12, more than 500 youth, young adults, and those who accompany and support them came together for the opening day of “(em)brace for impact” – a national youth gathering of The United Church of Canada and The Presbyterian Church in Canada.
Participants journeyed from near and far, including global partners who work alongside our churches. Greetings were received from young global partners representing the Presbyterian Church of Korea, National Council of Churches of Kenya, East Jerusalem YMCA, Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, and National Council of Churches in the Philippines, along with virtual greetings from partners around the world.
Together, those gathered acknowledged the land with Indigenous partners and engaged in a smudging ceremony, worshipped ecumenically, and began building community with friends both new and old. The African Youth Choir of St. Paul’s United Church helped fill worship with music and joy.
General Secretaries from both denominations also welcomed participants, sharing their hopes for the days ahead and their gratitude for the organizers, partners, volunteers, and participants who have made this gathering possible.
Today will include a keynote speaker, workshops, games, worship, and more opportunities to learn from one another, build relationships, deepen faith, and encourage one another as participants (em)brace for impact.
Yesterday’s opening prayer began:
“God, we are thankful to be here today. We are in a community where strangers become friends, and small conversations can grow into genuine connection. Help us notice one another with kindness. Every act of welcome and every small moment of care helps someone know they belong this week.”
Learn more about Collective 2026 here: https://www.collective-gathering.ca/
Follow them on Facebook here: https://bit.ly/Collective2026 and Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/collective_gathering_2026/
Find photos here: https://bit.ly/collective2026_photos
