As we bid farewell to summer and welcome the Labour Day weekend, we’re excited to announce our special sale at the James Bay United Church Thrift Shop! This Friday and Saturday, enjoy a 50% off discount on everything in the store. It’s the perfect time to find great bargains and support our community.

Please note, this sale is in celebration of the Labour Day weekend, not just Labour Day itself. So be sure to visit us on both Friday and Saturday to take full advantage of these amazing deals.

Join us at James Bay United Church on September 1, 2024, for an inspiring Sunday service led by Rev. Greg. In his sermon, Rev. Greg explores the challenge of living with integrity in our daily lives. While we strive to align our actions with our values, the path of true discipleship often demands more than we can easily give. Reflecting on Jesus' teachings, Rev. Greg encourages us to focus less on rigid rules and more on living authentically with integrity. This message reminds us of the grace available to us when we fall short and the freedom found in God's love. Don't miss this thoughtful exploration of faith and integrity.

Music: Jennifer Turner
Presider: Greg Powell
Scripture: Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
Scripture Reader: Carol Yanisch
Lighting the Christ Candle: Peggy Holding
Prayers of the People: Rev. Greg Powell
Bulletin

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)

Due to a technical glitch, we regret that the reflection by D'Arcy McPherson titled "Hope and Nourishment in Challenging Times," delivered during the August 11 service, was not fully captured. This reflection, drawing on Psalm 130:1-8 and John 6:35, 41-51, shared a personal and poignant story of love, resilience, and the significance of same-sex marriage in Canada. We apologize for the inconvenience and have attached the full text of the reflection for those who missed it. Thank you for your understanding.

As my time as Transitional Supply Minister (TSM) comes to a close and my new role as permanent minister begins on August 19, I am very excited for the next phase. I have not yet written a compilation of the recommendations and observations I have collected since April, but I will do so shortly. In brief, I consider the transitional period that is coming to a close to be a success: James Bay United Church is a different entity in its operation and administration compared to the time when I arrived.

Much as I would like to take credit for this, doing so would misrepresent the many efforts by many people. The new office administrator and the new bookkeeper have shown wonderful enthusiasm as they learn how to carry out their duties effectively and efficiently. The mood of the Board is one of possibility and promise. The Interim Finance Team has undertaken a tremendous amount of work. The Sunday congregation seems to delight in worship; the Tuesday congregation soaks in the jazz; and the Thursday congregation dines with dignity and community. There is much vitality in this place.

There is also a lot of potential here. I believe the time is right to engage the congregation to review the vision and mission, to consider possible programs, and to determine how to make the budget work. We are now in the 100th year of The United Church of Canada (and the 134th of James Bay Church), and this is a good time to envision the next 100 years—or perhaps the next 5 or 10 years.

My new role expands my involvement in worship and pastoral care, which will help me become even better acquainted with the joys and needs of the folks at James Bay United Church. On that note, I am interested in updating the hard-copy version of the church directory and have made contact with IPC, the company that did the previous version. This could happen as early as October and will require a coordinator. A few new programs or initiatives keep coming to mind for me, and you should expect fuller proposals on these.

Join us for a BBQ lunch after Sunday Worship on September 8th at James Bay United Church! This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our fellowship with one another and celebrate the life of our faith community as we step into this new season together. Let's gather, enjoy some delicious food, and embrace the spirit of togetherness that defines our church. All are welcome!

Join us for the new season of SingYourJoy, Victoria’s vibrant, non-auditioned chorus for young adults aged 16–29. Starting September 9th, 2024, we meet on Mondays from 7 to 9 PM at 1355 Mitchell St., Oak Bay. This is a fantastic opportunity to make new friends, enhance your singing skills, and be part of a dynamic community. With no fees required, just bring your enthusiasm and commitment. Co-directed by Christine Chepyha and Gordon Miller.

We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our Healing Pathway Ministry's public sessions starting this September. Beginning on September 11th, 2024, we will offer Healing Pathway sessions in the Sanctuary on the second Wednesday of each month at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. These sessions provide a nurturing space for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing, guided by our compassionate practitioners.

If you're interested in making an appointment at either 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM, please send an email request to Sandy at healingpathway2023@gmail.com to learn more.

James Bay United Church is proud to host the SingYourJoy Children’s Choruses weekly in the Sanctuary as part of our Arts Ministry. SingYourJoy Children’s Choruses (formerly the James Bay Children’s Chorus) was formed in September 2017 with the goal of providing a non-auditioned, affordable community choir for children and youth. Through weekly rehearsals and several performance opportunities throughout the year, these children learn musical and life skills. They learn to cooperate as a group, encouraging and motivating each other to reach their potential. Singers develop vocal techniques, music reading skills, solfege, and performance and listening skills. Our super fun rehearsals include music games and activities, age-appropriate songs, and percussion instruments.

the Inspire Program, (ages 6-11) rehearses from 3:45pm to 4:45pm on Thursdays. 

the Emerge Program, (ages 11-16) rehearses from 5pm to 6pm on Thursday evenings. 

For more information and online registration, click here.