October 25, 2025

ABT Congregational Life Event

“May This Church be Like a Tree”

October 25, 9:00–3:30

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Red Deer

Download this poster.

“May This Church Be Like a Tree,” You might recognize those words from the hymn of the same title by Pablo D Sosa. Every tree knows the rhythm of the seasons and our churches are living through these seasons too. It’s new territory for us as we hold the gifts of buildings from our predecessors and step forward to learn – how bricks and mortar, wood and nails may creatively continue to serve God’s mission.

Our learning partner at this event will be Katja Brittain who has worked with many congregations to shape faithful discernment. She will guide us in all kinds of new understandings of our how we see our church properties.

Come and be part of this hopeful movement. Let’s grow into the church our communities need today—and the church God is calling us to be tomorrow.

Everyone is welcome! We hope to see you at this important and inspiring gathering.

Cost $50 per person / $15 per additional person from the same congregation

Please register here. (This helps us with meal planning.)

The shape our day.

9:00 – 9:15           Welcome, Introduction to the day.

9:15 – 10:15         The Landscape of Church Buildings in Our Synod

10:15 – 11:00      Stories from the Ground

11:00 – 11:20       Break for Refreshment and Fellowship

11:20 – 12:20      Practical Pathways for Stewardship

12:30 – 1:30        Worship & Lunch

1:30 – 2:15           Discernment Tools & Next Steps

2:15 – 2:45          Sharing and Insights

2:45 – 3:30         Bishop Trish: Next steps, Synod updates

 

Promotional Videos for this event:  1. An Invitation             2. Further Information