Canadian Unitarian Council
The Canadian Unitarian Council (CUC; French: Conseil unitarien du Canada), registered as a nonprofit organization (106868474RR0001), serves as the national body for Unitarian, Universalist, and Unitarian Universalist congregations in Canada. Established on May 14, 1961, it initially operated under the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), formed a day later in the United States. The CUC became fully autonomous in 2002, assuming responsibility for Canadian congregational support, though some congregations maintain dual membership with the UUA.

History
Unitarianism arrived in Canada in the 1820s through immigrants from England, Ireland, and New England. Early congregations included the Unitarian Church of Montreal (1842) and the First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto (1845). The CUC formed during the merger of North American Unitarians and Universalists into the UUA in 1961. For decades, Canadian congregations relied on UUA services, but by the late 1990s, advocacy for Canadian self-sufficiency grew. A 2000 agreement with the UUA transferred $1.5 million to the CUC, enabling full autonomy by 2002.

Structure and Governance
The CUC operates under a congregational polity, emphasizing local governance. Its executive leadership includes an executive director, currently Vyda Ng, and a board elected by member congregations. As of recent records, it supports 46 congregations and emerging groups, serving approximately 3,804 members.

Mission and Activities
The CUC focuses on enhancing congregational vitality, promoting social justice, and nurturing Canadian Unitarian Universalist identity. It coordinates national initiatives such as youth programming, ministerial training, and advocacy through groups like Canadian Unitarians For Social Justice. Historical milestones include the 1995 founding of the International Council of Unitarians and Universalists, where the CUC was a founding member, and the 1993 endowment campaign that raised over $400,000.

Publications
Key publications include The Canadian Unitarian and the Canadian Unitarian eNews, which disseminate theological resources, news, and event information.

References

• Formation: 1961 establishment under UUA framework[2][5].
• Autonomy: 2002 transition with UUA financial support[3][5].
• Growth: Expansion of national programs and membership since 1990s[3].
• Affiliation: Role in global Unitarian Universalism through international bodies[2][3].