As the Canada and Bermuda Territory prepares to realign divisions under the divisional boundaries initiative, leaders have been preparing for the new structure and a merging divisional leadership team. Already, leaders have begun to connect, converse and set the path for the way forward, with a focus on uncovering and preserving regional strengths and uniqueness.

Effective January 1, 2024, the territory will be comprised of four divisions:

• Atlantic Division (An amalgamation of the former Maritime, Newfoundland and Labrador, Quebec, and Bermuda divisions.)
• Ontario Division
• Prairies and Northern Territories Division (Initially, it was proposed that the Alberta and Northern Territories Division and Prairie Division would merge to form the Great Plains and Northern Division. After consultation with stakeholders in the respective divisions, it was determined that this name did not accurately reflect the regions and the change to Prairies and Northern Territories Division was proposed and approved by International Headquarters.)
• British Columbia Division

Lt-Colonel Brian Armstrong, divisional commander for the new Prairies and Northern Territories Division, and Lt-Colonel Sandra Stokes, divisional commander for the new Atlantic Division, have committed to orienting their leadership teams to each other, to the new structure, and to answering any questions that may remain as the territory embarks on this change.

Under the professional facilitation of Kerri Cryderman, a soldier of Saskatoon Temple, divisional leadership teams gathered in person on both ends of the country, in Red Deer, Alta., and Halifax, where they uncovered what is known as their “working genius.” This process helped participants uncover their strengths and weaknesses so as to enable them to create effective, focused teams who can leverage their genius and competencies for good. 

Through prayer, singing, dancing and even games, individuals learned about each other on a personal level, as well as their local culture, and, most importantly, discovered their “ties that bind.” Feedback following the sessions was unanimous: participants felt united as a team and, as they continue to align their mission, their ministry will be more focused.

“The journey has begun, but as with all change, it will take time, things will shift and it will not be perfect,” says Lt-Colonel Stokes. “By remaining focused and connected with one another, by keeping the advancement of the mission at the core, the new divisions will flourish and the kingdom of God will grow in our communities. As we continue down this path, may we also experience spiritual transformation, putting our trust in God who makes all things new.”

Learn more about the divisional boundary mergers here.