Opening to Infinite Possibilities
Ministers, Licensed Unity Teachers (LUTs), and spiritual leaders from across the Unity South Central Region gathered at Unity Village in October for the 2026 Regional Conference. The gathering provided opportunities for spiritual renewal, professional development, regional business, and fellowship with colleagues and friends throughout the Unity movement.
Opening Celebration and Featured Presentations
The conference began with the uplifting music of Strawberry Jam and a joyful celebration of gratitude and blessings, setting an enthusiastic tone for our time together.
The opening gathering also included recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Rev. Jacquie Fernandez shared her concerns regarding the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within Unity. Her remarks provided an opportunity to reflect on the importance of listening, honoring different experiences, and remaining mindful of how our intentions and perceptions may differ.
Our opening featured speaker, Rev. Dr. Martha Creek, brought her distinctive blend of wisdom, humor, and practical spiritual insight. Her presentation encouraged participants to explore their personal motivations, deepen their understanding of themselves, and consider the practices necessary to sustain their spiritual work and ministry.
Rev. Dr. Ahriana Platten delivered the closing presentation, exploring the importance of grounding, honoring discomfort, and allowing energy to move forward. Through imagery of water and the intentional practice of grounding blessings and prayers one “stitch” at a time, she invited participants to consider how healing and transformation emerge through conscious spiritual practice.
Annual Membership Meeting
The second day of the conference included the Annual Membership Meeting. Unity Worldwide Headquarters (UWH) CEO Rev. Jim Blake and members of his team joined participants to share information, respond to questions, and engage in conversation about matters affecting the broader Unity movement.
The region also recognized its board leadership, welcoming Rev. Gary Canier as a newly elected member, along with Rev. Sharon Renae and Rev. Leslie Woods, whose appointments were approved to continue serving terms held by their predecessors.
The Unity South Central Region Board includes:
The new board (from left): Revs. Cesaratto, Peters, Clark, Renae, Woods, and Canier
Rev. Brenda Peters, President
Rev. Gary Canier, Vice President and DEIJB Representative
Rev. Kirti Cesaratto, Regional Representative Liaison and Nominating Committee Liaison
Rev. Nina Clark, Treasurer
Rev. Sharon Renae, Secretary and LUT Representative
Rev. Leslie Woods, Youth and Family Ministry (YFM) Representative
We extend our appreciation to all our board members, both new and continuing, for their willingness to share their time, talents, and leadership in service to our region.
Financial updates included discussion of the region’s declining financial position over the past several years. Following the sharing of financial reports, individuals and communities responded with additional donations to help support the region’s ongoing work. (Donate to USCR)
We are sincerely grateful for this generosity. These contributions help sustain the region’s mission of providing resources, connection, and support to Unity ministers, Licensed Unity Teachers, spiritual leaders, and communities.
Fellowship and Community Connection
Beyond the scheduled presentations and business sessions, one of the most appreciated aspects of the conference was the opportunity for personal connection. Participants enjoyed time to reconnect with longtime colleagues, develop new friendships, and meet individuals they had previously known only through online gatherings.
The setting of Unity Village offered additional opportunities for reflection and renewal, including visits to the archives, walks along the trails, and quiet moments at the labyrinth.
During our closing reflections, many participants identified these informal moments of fellowship as some of the most meaningful experiences of the conference. These connections remind us that our regional community extends beyond individual ministries. Through shared experiences, collaboration, and mutual support, we strengthen the relationships that sustain our work throughout the year.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Regional Conference offered opportunities to learn, reflect, reconnect, and return to our spiritual communities with renewed inspiration. Each minister, Licensed Unity Teacher, spiritual leader, and participant brings unique gifts and perspectives to the Unity movement. When we gather, we strengthen our collective ability to serve and support one another.
We look forward to gathering again for the Unity South Central Regional Conference in 2028 and hope to see many of you at the Unity Evolution 2027 (formerly known as Convention).
Thank you to everyone who participated, contributed, volunteered, and helped make this gathering possible.
We are grateful for you, and we are here to support you.
For information about regional programs, resources, and opportunities for connection, sign up for the USCR newsletter.
