Foundation Story: Caring of the Soul
In January 2026, Chinese Christian leaders from across Canada met for four days of rest, reflection, and fellowship at a retreat at Loon Lake Lodge in Maple Ridge, British Columbia. Supported by a $15,000 grant from The United Church of Canada General Granting Fund, Tai Kong United Church created the gathering as an opportunity for ministers, spouses, and theological leaders to connect, share experiences, and renew their spirits together.
Foundation Director Alan Lai was also part of the project, helping support a vision of strengthening Chinese Christian leadership and community across the country.
This marked the second retreat, with the first being held at Sandy-Saulteaux Spiritual Centre (Winnipeg, MB) in Spring 2024. It proved to be a transformative experience for all involved. Read more in our 2024 Annual Report.
For many Chinese Christian leaders, opportunities to gather in person are few and far between. Serving communities spread across a vast country can be rewarding, but it can also come with the feeling of isolation. As cultural minorities within the church, many leaders rarely have the chance to spend unhurried time with others who share similar experiences and understand the unique challenges and joys of their ministries.
Sometimes, what is needed most is the opportunity to be together.
Continuing a growing community
The retreat brought together participants from across Canada, including many who had attended a previous gathering in Winnipeg. Because friendships had already started to form, participants were able to move into meaningful conversations, shared worship, and thoughtful reflection.
New participants also joined the gathering, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the group. Together, they created a welcoming environment where ideas, questions, and experiences could be shared openly.
Participants spent time discussing the future of Chinese Christian ministry in Canada, exploring ways to strengthen relationships and support one another in their work. Conversations were thoughtful and engaging, but were also filled with warmth, humour, and friendship.
One participant described the retreat as being “blessed with fun, laughter, songs, and yummy Chinese desserts.” Another reflected on the freedom participants felt to speak honestly, noting that conversations came “from the heart.”
The gathering also reflects The United Church of Canada Foundation’s commitment to anti-racism by intentionally creating space for racialized leaders to be heard, supported, and equipped.
Finding renewal in creation
Surrounded by mountains and a beautiful lakeside setting, participants found space to step away from the demands of daily life and reconnect with God through creation.
The natural surroundings provided a peaceful backdrop for prayer, worship, and reflection. Participants spoke about the value of being away from busy schedules and crowded calendars, finding renewed inspiration for their ministries and personal journeys.
“For us who are minorities, ministers, spouses, and theologians, we benefited greatly from the retreat. Spending time away from the crowds and to be close to God’s nature was priceless. In this wonderful mountainous location with a beautiful lake, we encountered a life-giving creation that inspired us to keep searching, working, and journeying.”
Music also played an important role in the retreat experience. With a professional musician among the participants, times of singing and worship became especially meaningful.
Building relationships that matter
One of the most significant outcomes of the retreat was the opportunity to strengthen relationships. While participants remain connected throughout the year, gathering in person created space for conversations that are difficult or impossible to have online.
The group did take opportunities to connect virtually with friends who were unable to attend, ensuring that a wider circle could contribute to discussions about future opportunities and needs within the Chinese Christian community. Participants agreed that face-to-face gatherings remain essential for building trust, sharing experiences, and growing genuine community.
Throughout the retreat, leaders were reminded that they are not alone in their work. They returned home encouraged by new ideas, strengthened friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Looking ahead
As the retreat came to a close, participants were already discussing the possibility of gathering again in the future. The experience highlighted the importance of creating intentional spaces where leaders can rest, reflect, and support one another.
The retreat also affirmed a broader truth: spiritual renewal is an important part of healthy leadership. By investing in relationships and creating opportunities for meaningful connection, communities become stronger and more resilient.
Wonderful things happen when people are given the opportunity to gather, share their stories, and encourage one another. Through this retreat, Chinese Christian leaders found renewal, deepened friendships, and a stronger sense of community. This continues to grow as participants return to their ministries inspired to serve, lead, and build connections across the country.
Make a gift today to help create spaces where leaders can find renewal, strengthen relationships, and continue nurturing vibrant communities of faith.
The United Church of Canada Foundation is committed to becoming an anti-racist organization. We believe that God has created us all with love, and that racism and hatred against others does not belong in Canada and around the world. We believe that we are all wonderfully made, and we all belong in God’s world. Read more here.
