After a long and beautiful life, Clara Wieland passed away this week. She was being kept in constant company of neighbours, family, and friends, and it seemed a blessing that after 102 years she finally let go and joined with the great cloud of witnesses, to be with the creator she so fiercely believed in, and join many loved ones and friends she has known. She will be sorely missed as a faithful and devout member of James Bay United. She had a hand in helping many along in whatever way she could during her lifetime, all the while keeping quiet about her good deeds. She had a strong faith, as evidenced by the two well-used Bibles at her bedside, and is remembered for her love of music, her sense of humour, and for getting involved in community, helping family, friends, and strangers alike. She truly lived her call to Christ, and it is good to know she is at long last in the company of those whom she remembered, worshipped, and prayed. Details of her internment in the Garden of Remembrance at James Bay United Church are forthcoming and will be shared as arrangements are made.
Construction will continue along Michigan Street this week. Please leave yourself some extra time to travel and find parking, and remember the church remains open to you, in the midst of one lane of our road being under construction. It has been wonderful to be blessed with warmed weather, making it easier for many of us to navigate our way to the church. Stay safe!
This Saturday a number of us will be joining together for two exciting events on Satuday. The Women's March on Washington has a number of sister-marches being organized across the continent, including one in Centennial Square in Victoria! All genders are welcome at these rallies and marches, which have been organized in the spirit of coming together to celebrate differences and communities which are facing marginalization and alignment, particularly in the face of a change in regime and policy as the new president-elect is inaugurated on Saturday. A number of United Church people from around Victoria have requested to meet at James Bay United together and head to the march in solidarity. So we will be opening our doors and joining together with people from Oak Bay United and other congregations, to show up at the rally and march together! Please join us at noon on Saturday downstairs. We will head off together at 12:30 to Centennial Square, for a rally which starts at 1pm and the march which begins at 2pm. It should be a time of hopeful solidarity, as we join together with the understanding that "Love Trumps Hate!"
On Saturday evening, a number of our congregants will be joining together to share a meal before being treated to a delightful presentation by Dr. Patricia Roy, who is known for giving engaging and interesting discussions. Doors will open at 5:10, and the talk will begin about 6:45. Come and hear Dr. Roy's discussion on the history of Canada as seen through political cartoons! Hope to see you there!
Karen will return from study leave early next week. In the meantime please contact Ryan Tristin Chapman 1-(604) 440-7465, who is being supported by Bev and Duncan McLean (778) 265-1272 in regards to pastoral care needs and emergencies.
Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday. Take care and God bless!