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Northern Witness: Bible study from the Council of the North

Produced in 2016, this five-part Bible study remains a meaningful introduction to the ministry, challenges and hope that shape Anglican life in the North. While some contextual details may have changed over time, the study continues to offer valuable insight through Scripture reflection and stories of faithful witness from northern communities.

Northern Witness invites small groups and congregations to explore themes such as mission, sacrificial service, partnership and healing, viewed through the lived experience of individuals and dioceses in the Council of the North. Each session pairs a biblical passage with stories from local ministries, with accompanying discussion questions encouraging participants to see God’s work in the North and in their own communities.

Suggested uses

  • Suitable for parish study groups, seasonal programs or short-term small-group gatherings
  • Can be used as a standalone series or alongside teaching on northern ministry or mission
  • Helpful for orientation sessions in parishes supporting Council of the North ministries

Key themes

  • Mission and service in challenging contexts
  • Sacrificial ministry and humble leadership
  • Trust, generosity and seeking God’s kingdom
  • Healing, reconciliation and the removal of barriers
  • Partnership and shared witness across distance

Best suited for: small groups, parish study circles, lay leaders, clergy and anyone wanting to understand the ministry of the Council of the North through Scripture and story.

Cover of the Northern Witness Bible study resource from the Council of the North

Acknowledging the land and God’s creation

This acknowledgement is crafted in light of the Principles of Reconciliation by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, as we seek to live faithfully in Christ and in right relationship with all. 

We give thanks to the Creator for this land, its waters, forests and all living beings, and for the abiding presence of Christ among us. From coast to coast to coast, these have been cared for and nurtured by First Nations, Inuit and Métis through countless generations. 

We honour the enduring relationship Indigenous Peoples have cultivated with these lands and waters, and the treaties and agreements that reflect these sacred bonds. We acknowledge the harms caused by colonial expansion, through frameworks like the Doctrine of Discovery and structures like the residential school system. We recognize our past failures as a Church, including disruption of connections to the land and suppression of Indigenous spiritualities. 

Guided by the gospel of Jesus Christ, we confess our need for healing. We commit ourselves to seeking truth, pursuing reconciliation and nurturing harmony with all creation. We place our trust in Christ, through whom all things are reconciled to God. 

May God strengthen us to live faithfully as stewards of the Earth. Let us walk in love, justice and reconciliation, joining in God’s work to restore all creation.