Why Emerging Leaders Should Care About the Canadian National Gathering

If you’re an emerging leader in the Christian Reformed Church in Canada, the Canadian National Gathering should matter to you. While this gathering is for all ministry leaders in the CRC in Canada, it is also an opportunity for young adults, people new to ministry, people stepping into leadership in their church communities, and more. 

Every three years, CRC churches from across Canada gather to listen, discern, and connect. The next gathering is May 28–31, 2026, at Redeemer University in Ancaster, Ont. 

Though the official event is held in May, it’s a much longer season of conversations, prayer, and discernment that starts now and will continue after the event ends.

Why The Canadian National Gathering Matters for Emerging Leaders

The Canadian National Gathering is a time to thoughtfully wrestle with big questions--who are we as a church in this time and place, and what is God calling us to together?

As an emerging leader, your perspective matters. 

You bring fresh vision, new ideas, and an awareness of the challenges and opportunities facing your generation. The Canadian National Gathering is a place where your voice can help shape the direction of the CRC in Canada.

You may not hold a formal leadership title, but if you’re leading a small group, serving in worship, volunteering with youth, or helping shape ministry in your community, your insights are valuable. The gathering is a place where your perspective can be shared, heard, and woven into a national conversation.

A Space for Listening and Discernment

One of the most valuable aspects of the Canadian National Gathering is the commitment to discernment. We take time to pray, reflect, and seek God’s guidance together. We don’t gather to make quick decisions or push a personal agenda, instead, this is a place to intentionally and thoughtfully listen to God and to one another’s unique context as Canadian churches.

For emerging leaders, this is an opportunity to be part of shaping a collective vision grounded in faith and unity.

How to Participate

You don’t have to wait until May 2026 to start engaging with the Canadian National Gathering. 

Here are a few ways to get involved now:

• Join the conversation in your local church. Ask your pastor or leadership team about how your congregation is preparing for the Canadian National Gathering.
• Offer your perspective. Share your thoughts on where you see God at work and where the church could grow.
• Pray for the Canadian National Gathering and its impact. Pray that God will guide the process and call the right voices into the conversation.
• Consider attending. If you have the opportunity to be one of the representatives in May 2026, say yes. It’s an unforgettable experience.

This Is for All of Us

Even if you aren’t in the room in May 2026, the Canadian National Gathering is for you. It’s for the whole Canadian CRC. The conversations and discernments that happen will ripple out to shape our shared future as a church. 

Your prayers, ideas, and engagement now will help ensure that the future reflects the diverse voices and gifts God has placed among us.

Learn more about the Canadian National Gathering: crcna.org/canada