It is relatively easy to meet God in moments of joy or bliss. In these situations we correctly count ourselves blessed by God.  The challenge is to believe that this is also true - and to know God’s presence - in the midst of doubt, depression, anxiety, conflict, or failure. But the God who is Immanuel is equally in those moments we would never choose as in those we would gladly choose. - David Benner

MAID and the CRCNA

In Canada, Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) has been increasing since Bill C-7 (2021) removed the requirement that death be “reasonably foreseeable.” This evolving context creates deep moral dilemmas for families and particularly for doctors who oppose ending life or when they believe treatment or hope remains. CRCNA’s Synod 2025 has condemned MAID, affirming the intrinsic value of life as “a gift from God,” and “deploring the legalization and practice of medically assisted suicide”. Synod called for advocacy that protects conscience rights of doctors, prevents further expansion, and emphasizes robust mental health and palliative care options. Synod also affirmed that justice is shown through faithful presence, accompaniment in suffering, and systems that uphold life.

Holy One, in this complex area of human suffering, we acknowledge the weight of pain and the hard decisions faced. While we give thanks for care that eases pain, we confess the tension between avoiding suffering and trusting Your call in life and death. Guide us into deeper justice by walking alongside those who suffer and affirming life’s sacred gift. Grant us courage to accompany one another in suffering, trusting You to sustain us through hardship, even unto death.

Europe Endures Heatwave

Europe is currently experiencing a heat wave which is predicted to remain into July. Temperatures have surpassed 46 °C in Spain and Portugal and 39 °C in France. The burden of heat falls heaviest on the elderly, chronically ill, children, outdoor workers, and low-income households who cannot afford to miss work. Wildfires run out of control, displacing communities and animals. Workplaces are closing, power plants are failing, and drought is drying up crops, depleting water sources, and straining ecosystems. This crisis is a visible consequence of accelerating climate disruption, no longer a distant threat, but a lived reality. Justice demands not only global accountability for emissions and climate policy, but also equitable emergency response systems to offer relief for the most vulnerable.

Merciful Creator, hear the earth’s cry as Europe endures searing heat. We pray for the vulnerable, the elderly, the sick, the poor, and the animals.  Grant them relief and protection. Inspire leaders to act justly, invest in care, and curb the climate drivers behind this suffering. May our compassion flow from love for all humanity and for the earth. 

Democracy in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s democracy has sharply declined since the 2019 protests, which began over an extradition bill and grew into a mass pro-democracy movement. In 2020, China imposed a sweeping National Security Law that criminalized dissent and led to the arrest of over 10,000 activists, lawmakers, and journalists with many prosecuted and convicted, mostly for peaceful political expression. Independent media were shut down, and electoral reforms ensured only Beijing-approved candidates could run. Now in 2025, major opposition parties have disbanded and protests are rare.  Freedom of expression, assembly, and the press have been severely curtailed or dismantled. 

Gracious God, we mourn Hong Kong’s shrinking freedoms and the loss and imprisonment of democratic voices. Stir hearts and consciences, within Hong Kong and elsewhere, to honour democracy’s promise of equitable freedom and justice for all. We pray for freedom for captives - for those physically behind bars, and those imprisoned in spirit in systems and worldviews of power, cronyism, and unchecked privilege. Spirit that loosens chains, come quickly.  

Becoming (part of) the Answer to our Own Prayers

9 Disability Resources to Help Your Children’s Ministry Welcome All Children

Most churches want to include kids with disabilities in their children’s programming, but many leaders aren’t sure how to do it. Thrive rounded up a list of some recorded trainings and resources that your church ministry leaders and volunteers can use to become more equipped to welcome all of God’s children.  Review the resources »

Intercultural Congregations Network 

We're thrilled to introduce the new Intercultural Congregations Network from CRC in Canada's Intercultural Ministry. This dynamic network is a fantastic resource for any congregation looking to be better equipped and encouraged in their journey of welcoming, integrating, and growing with people from all cultures. Learn more here.