In Canada, all individuals have the freedom to practice whatever spiritual teaching suits them best. The government recognizes the validity of many different spiritual paths and the services that they bring to the community. Within this environment of spiritual freedom, Eckankar Canada provides the organizational structure of Eckankar, Religion of the Light and Sound of God in Canada. Our members come from all types of different religious backgrounds, but we are united by a common search for deeper spiritual understanding through personal experience. As we progress on the path, we find spiritual freedom and become Co-workers with God.

Eckankar is a worldwide religion with its headquarters on the Eckankar Spiritual Campus located in Chanhassen, Minnesota, USA. While the spiritual center serves the entire world, Eckankar Canada focuses on Canada alone. Thus Eckankar Canada is financially independent. All funding comes from Canadian donations and is used to support activities in Canada. When Eckankar Canada was established as a non-profit organization in 1975, the religion gained official recognition by the Canadian government. This means, for example, that Eckankar weddings are legally recognized in each Canadian province and territory, and donations are tax-deductible. At our office in White Rock, British Columbia, we have a small staff to help maintain necessary Canadian operational needs.

Aside from a small number of paid administrative staff, Eckankar is entirely a volunteer organization. Volunteer regional spiritual leaders, known as Regional ECK Spiritual Aides (RESAs) are appointed on a yearly basis. Together, eight RESAs form the Eckankar Canada Board of Trustees. Each RESA oversees Eckankar activities in a province or territory of Canada.

Eckankar clergy and other volunteers do not accept compensation for leading ECK Worship Services, performing ceremonies such as weddings or memorial services, teaching classes, arranging seminars, providing ECK Spiritual Aide sessions, or leading administrative meetings.

For members of Eckankar, service is its own reward. In keeping with the goal of service to all life, many Eckankar members can also be found volunteering in hospitals, youth organizations, and many other charitable groups. Each of our members is encouraged to find his or her own unique way of contributing to the community. The true meaning of the word Eckankar is "Co-worker with God," and this is the ultimate goal on the path.

For more about Eckankar, Religion of the Light and Sound of God, please visit the main site at www.Eckankar.org. For a concise overview of Eckankar, its organization and teachings, view the page About ECKANKAR, An overview of Eckankar and its teachings.