The Explorer Project 2016

By Maggie Zoske

What is the Explorer Project?  Sparked by conversations about recruitment for future ministry leadership, in 2015 the Toronto Conference created a new initiative to invite young adults into an adventure in another partnering Conference.  Host sites in the partnering Conference would offer an exciting experience of contemporary church identity, mission and ministry.

In 2015, three young women (ages 21, 19, 19) became Explorers:

• Katie Van Koughnet from Carman United Church, MB, went to Trinity United Church, Mount Pearl in Newfoundland and Labrador Conference, from May-August.

• An Explorer from Grace United Church in Springdale, NL, went to Trinity Centennial in Rosemont, ON for the months of May, June and July.

• An Explorer from Wesley-Knox United Church, London Conference, went to the site provided by Knox United, Fort Frances and the Emo-Devlin Pastoral Charge (including involvement in Rainy River/Stratton).

All Explorers report that the experience has deepened their sense of commitment to, and involvement within, the United Church of Canada.

The Conference of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario, British Columbia Conference, London Conference and Newfoundland and Labrador Conferences have joined the Toronto Conference in the Project for the summer of 2016 and will share in providing the necessary financial resources.  The Project hopes to offer this opportunity to up to eight Explorers.