April 2026

Ever wonder where magic comes from?
There’s plenty of it around Westwood – just look around. In the last year alone, our magic wands sparked numerous initiatives. We engaged a consultant, Margo Long, to look at our organization and out of that came many suggestions to open ourselves to the community and invite people in. This sparked our name change to Westwood Unitarian Community, an inclusive and welcoming society where people can explore spirituality and social justice through a progressive, curious, and non-traditional lens. We offer connection, meaning, and justice-oriented community without the formality of traditional church life. We are a place where we work, play, support each other and make the world a better place.

There are big sparks energizing our social justice initiatives. To further our wish for reconciliation with indigenous neighbours, last summer we visited kihcihaski aski to become more knowledgeable about indigenous sacred lands; we had a special service to learn the detailed history of the land where Westwood sits; and we are currently negotiating with the Papaschase First Nation 136/Beaver Hills House regarding sharing our building. We rejoined the Greater Edmonton Alliance and hosted our first “Fertile Ground – the Table Series” in cooperation with them and the Unitarian Church of Edmonton. And with the return of the Pride Parade Westwoodians once again took to the streets!

Sunday morning services, solstice services and our online discussion group (Chalice circle), as well as our popular potlucks provide wonderful connections and inspiration. Our compassion network sends the energy back and forth to where it is needed, bringing us together as a strong, supportive community.
We also love to spark joy with our August outdoor gathering, our Building Connections dinners, and our birthday celebrations. Magic happens regularly with our choir, our games nights, our art playshops, our book club. A “Maker’s Market” brought many new people into our building and was energizing and fun. And we are exploring options for a new long-term rental that would provide a social benefit, enhance our financial position and connect us to the neighbourhood.

There is lots of magic electric energy sparking and flowing in and around Westwood! But we need you to keep that energy going. Your regular ongoing financial support, as well as your volunteer time and creativity, are the fuel for this magic. This is the time of year to start or renew your commitment to Westwood. I invite you to join in the endeavour with us and help us create magic together!

Lorian Kennedy

President, Board of Trustees