A number of educational centres across Canada are accredited and supported by grants from the United Church. Hear the story of a special place in the midst of the Prairies.

The Spirit is alive and well in Saskatchewan’s Qu’Appelle Valley. Home to Aboriginal and Metis people, it’s also home to the United Church’s Calling Lakes Centre. For 60 years, people have been studying and learning in its understated buildings. But it’s time for a renewal. A major campaign is under way to make the centre more financially and environmentally sustainable.

People have called the centre “a Prairie treasure.” Many still think of it by its original name, the Prairie Christian Training Centre. Every year, an average of 550 people attend workshops and retreats there. They come from universities, schools, labour unions, and church groups of all descriptions—and they all leave with a renewed sense of purpose and peace in their lives.

Calling Lakes also hosts the important Designated Lay Ministry Program, training lay ministers from across Canada. The centre has a unique place in the life of the Prairies and the United Church. The Mission and Service Fund helps Calling Lakes meet its frugal budget. Please continue to give to the United Church so that education centres like Calling Lakes can provide sanctuary and space to contemplate life’s deeper questions, as well as train our leaders for the future.

Every gift to the church’s mission and service is used wisely and helps transform lives. Please continue to give generously - visit the Mission and Service donation page.