What We Do:  Opportunities for participation in the life and outreach of BUC

UC Outreach and Justice Committee

The Outreach and Social Justice Committee identifies and increases awareness of local, regional and global justice issues in which BUC is, or potentially could be, recommending or undertaking a response. This busy group’s main focus is the WEEKLY FOOD BANK that is a vital ministry of our congregation, and provides groceries to a growing number of individuals and families in our community. More than 35 volunteers assist with this outreach project along with the members of the Committee.

They also promote the Mission & Service Fund of the United Church of Canada through the “Mission and Service Stories” and other appeals throughout the year.

Membership & Pastoral Care Committee

This committee focuses on the pastoral care needs of our members and adherents by reaching out in a variety of ways throughout the year to ensure their well-being. They support the ongoing work of the Prayer Chain in holding those with health challenges in intentional prayer. They also look for ways to build relationships and connections within the congregation and the wider community through social activities, including coffee hour and fundraising projects.

Affirming/LGBTQ-2S Initiatives

This committee supports all committees in viewing their work through an Affirming lens and ensure that our virtual and physical image and actions reflect our Public, Intentional and Explicit (PIE) Affirming status. They will lead educational activities within the congregation and with the public around issues and events affecting marginalized people, e.g. participation in PRIDE and social justice events such as inviting speakers or leading book studies. All events will be listed on the BUC Events Calendar.

Other Committee Opportunities, Too!

There are many opportunities to share your gifts, if you so choose.

• Our Property Committee looks after all things maintenance-related in the building – we love them for that! They are also the liaison with tenants such as Trent Daycare (add link to their site), housed in our lower level from Monday to Friday.
• Our Trustees hold all of the property of the congregation for the use and benefit of the congregation as part of The United Church of Canada. At BUC, they also manage the cemetery located near Chemong Lodge at the bottom of the hill, as part of that responsibility. They work closely with the Finance Committee and the Treasurer to steward the congregation’s assets on behalf of the United Church of Canada.
• The Worship Committee bears responsibility for the spiritual leadership in the congregation and it is responsible for worship and Christian education/faith formation for all ages. As you might expect, they work closely with the Minister to oversee how the congregation as a whole works to answer God’s call to discipleship.

More detailed explanations of roles and responsibilities for committee members with additional opportunities is contained in the Nominations Handbook.

You are a Gift!

We won’t pressure you. We will, however, encourage you to explore where God is calling you to discipleship and for many, that is where the mystery of spiritual growth takes root.

•  What skills and abilities do you possess?
•  What do you enjoy doing? (hobbies, interests)
•  What are you tired of doing?
•  What would you like to learn more about?
•  Where do you believe God is calling you to grow?
•  What volunteer or work experience would you like to share?
•  What activities make you feel engaged and connected to others and to God?