CCS at DUCC 2026
The Diakonia of the United Church of Canada met for their national gathering in Kelowna, BC from Sept 15-18. DUCC and the Centre for Christian Studies are closely connected organizations, CCS being where most of the United Church’s Diaconal Minister received their theological education and diaconal formation. So it was no surprise that three CCS staff members and twelve CCS students took the opportunity to spend time with diaconal friends and colleagues from across Canada.
The three-day event took place at Central Okanagan United Church where CCS student Ally Phillips works. Ally was also on the local arrangements planning team for the event.
The keynote speaker for the event was Mable Sichali, Deaconess and Secretary for Community Development and Social Justice with the United Church of Zambia. Mable connected to the conference through video, exploring themes of transformational Diakonia, justice and security, and prophetic action for gender and social justice. “The church is not experiencing a crisis of members, but of creativity, imagination and moral courage,” she said. “When pastoral care unites with prophetic diakonia, we are able to make change,” said Mable.
“The world does not need a timid diaconate,” said Mable. “We need challenging vocal love.” Mable challenged the DUCC participants to work together. “A single finger cannot pick up a stone — or a louse.”
A special treat for CCS Program Staff member Janet Ross was being “pinned” as an honorary DUCC. “What a lovely surprise to receive a Diaconal pin!” said Janet. “And what joy it’s been to work with students, staff, and grads; and other diaconal and UCC communities. You are dear to my heart.”
Following the DUCC gathering, the six CCS students who are entering their Integration Year traveled from Kelowna to Naramata for their fall learning circle.
