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To the Congregations of St. Andrew's, St. Matthew's, and Fort Massey:
Over the past few weeks, the Amalgamation Committee has been listening closely to you. More than 170 of you responded to our naming poll. This robust turnout, alongside the passionate feedback we have heard in conversations, reveals just how deeply this community cares about the future of our shared church.
Thank you for that gift of participation.
What We Heard
The poll results were remarkably close, but beyond the numbers, we heard something more important: we are not yet of one mind. The responses tell us that our three communities are still getting to know one another.
New Information
After consulting with the Region and legal counsel, we've confirmed that a permanent name is not required to legally amalgamate on July 1st. The legislative, tax, and banking requirements can all be satisfied using a temporary administrative name. This discovery has opened a new path forward.
A Decision for Unity: The Vote This Sunday
The Amalgamation Committee believes our new name should be a source of unity, not division.
This Sunday, February 15th, we will ask you to vote YES/NO on an interim administrative name:
"Halifax United Church"
This placeholder name is for administrative purposes only. It allows us to satisfy all legal, banking, and CRA requirements so that our new church can legally exist on July 1st.
Once we are legally amalgamated and worshipping as one body, we will launch a new, refreshed naming process—one that is grounded in our shared experience as a single congregation. We believe our true name will emerge more clearly when we are living and worshipping as one community.
We want to thank you for your honesty, your passion, and your patience.
By taking this time now, we are building a foundation for lasting unity.
In faith and hope,
The Amalgamation Committee
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