Sharing the Spirit

As a community of faith, our commitment to God's work is most clearly seen in our actions, in the work we choose to do and consequently in the way we spend the money entrusted to us for the ministry of Christ's church. This narrative budget outlines our intentions as a congregation as we try to offer God's love to one another, our community and the world beyond.

Pastoral Care

With 156 families to care for we are always being called to respond to crises, support a family in stress, visit the lonely or comfort the bereaved. Pastoral care requests go to Rev. Brian Mee, the appropriate agency, program or our Pastoral Care Committee. As we care for each other in this way we experience the love of God. This area includes: 11% of our budget is used in caring for our congregation.

Community Outreach

As people of God we recognize the needs of the community around us. Yellowknife United Church is not one of the older congregations in the city but is certainly one of the more innovative! The building which houses it, Northern United Place (NUP), started as and largely exists today as a community outreach activity as well as a place of worship. Yellowknife United Church through a non-profit corporation owns and operates Northern United Place. The doors were opened on September 1, 1976 to provide subsidized housing for seniors, handicapped persons, single mothers, youth, transients and other persons of low income. The Church also provides free space for non-profit groups to hold their meetings and other activities in the multi-purpose area. Our ministry in this area is broad: 15% of our budget is used for outreach in our Community.

Local Congregation Management

The Ministry of Yellowknife United Church depends on an effective organization and administration. Bulletins must be printed for worship, money properly accounted for and records kept in accordance with the law. The work of the Church requires an Official Board that is representative of the members for imaginative planning and democratic decision making. Through our administration we strive to be good stewards of all God has given us. This area includes: 29% is allotted to the operation of our church and congregation.

World Outreach

Our congregation's work extends far beyond Yellowknife. We are able to assist people quickly in times of natural disaster and warfare, and in areas of poverty. Also, we see that the World contains people who are in crisis. Our Mission & Service Fund is the major resource for this work. Given that almost everyone in our congregation comes from somewhere else, the influence of the world on our mission as God's people is undeniable. This area includes: 12% of our budget helps those beyond our immediate community.

Worship

Yellowknife United Church is built on the strength of its worship. Through Word and Sacrament God prepares us for the mission of the church. The services, prepared by our Minister, Brian Mee are intended to meet a variety of needs while remaining true to the traditions and beliefs of the church. The high standards of our "gutsy" Choir and its leader Jim Brydon contribute to a rich spiritual experience. The involvement of the laity symbolizes our belief that everyone has a ministry. This area includes: 27% of our budget is used for our Sunday worship.

Christian Development

Jesus was a teacher and as Christians we carry on this work through Sunday School, mid-week groups, Bible study sessions, confirmation classes as well as Adult Education workshops on social issues, life skills, marriage preparation and leadership development. These activities give us a solid understanding of who we are as God's people and prepare us to respond creatively and faithfully to the world around us. Our church provides a non-judgmental place for teaching and nurturing of children, youth and adults in ever-changing, complicated times. This area includes: 5% is expended in training, teaching and nurturing our congregation.

Would You like to contact us about certain stewardship issues?

If you would like to talk to us about stewardship issues please call 873-6291 or e-mail us at ykuc@tamarack.nt.ca