Keeping in Touch -- February 4, 2017
Good afternoon James Bay United Church,
Some important messages to convey before we gather tomorrow.
In honour of the United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week, there is a special event tomorrow afternoon, 1-4pm at the David Lam Auditorium (UVic) “HEALING THE WORLD: Appreciating Diversity, Creating Community.” The event includes singing, displays, refreshments and panellists from 8 major faiths speaking to the question: What tools and teachings in your tradition are needed for humanity to heal and flourish? Co-sponsored by Victoria Multi-Faith Society and UVic Multi-Faith Services. Free parking on Sundays!
On Thursday I received a note from Percy Butler's son Bruce, to say that Percy died on Wednesday morning, “two days after turning 91. He lived life to the fullest and only became ill about 3 weeks ago.” Many of us have been on the receiving end of Percy’s attentive care. There will be a memorial service at the Wellesley, 2800 Blanshard St. on Friday, February 10 at 2:00 pm.
We now have confirmation of the timing for the Celebration of Clara Wieland’s life. By the encouragement of family members, we’ll weave this celebration into our regular Sunday morning service next Sunday, February 12, with a reception to follow in the hall downstairs. You may wish to take a look at Clara’s obituary posted on the News page of our website, detailing something of her amazing 102 years!
In case you missed it, two events coming up this week through the leadership of the Life Long Learning Team ... on Tuesday February 7, 2 pm the first of a series of gentle Yoga sessions with qualified instructor Pascal Layman. $10 for the first session; $5 thereafter. Bring a mat or blanket if you plan to sit or lie on the floor; if a chair suits you better, we have lots of those on hand.
Then on Thursday, February 9, 7-8:30 pm, the screening of “The Secret Path” video, the story of Chanie Wenjack, a young aboriginal boy who died of exposure while attempting to escape from a residential school to reach his family. Viewing the video will be followed by a time for facilitated conversation with Nicole Bresser, an indigenous lawyer in Victoria, as we reflect on the film and how we might respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Report. Both events will take place in the downstairs hall. Best to enter from the doors off the patio at the back of the building.
I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.
Grace and Peace, Karen