This is what they used to call a ‘slow news day’. A day when the comms people might have been scrambling to figure out what the headlines should be and what stories should get lifted up. Natalia has been doing an amazing job of coordinating our messages over the past weeks since Zunaira left on maternity leave and this week we decided together to shorten it to just a couple of items. 

An urgent note from Natalia: It’s Gordon. It’s all Gordon! Someone has to name the person who’s the real spark behind our ideas – and trust me, he’s the one lighting the fire!

From Gordon: too much sun Natalia! I think the heat-stroke is affecting my judgement. But let’s get on with the news!

Every good read needs a soundtrack. This one begins with guitar:


JBUC News

We have been enjoying tête-à-tête conversations with Ministry and Program leaders from all corners of our church, getting to know them, their passion for their work, their challenges and their dreams for the future. A common theme from everyone seems to be how much energy and opportunity exists in our vital, growing neighbourhood church. A take-away for all of us could be that when we learn something about someone else’s ministry or program in the church, we are connecting ourselves to the greater church community.

Our website is undergoing a page by page refresh to keep our information up-to-date, easy to navigate, and a joy to read. For example, we have just started to update the Healing Pathway page  – how do you like the new look?

Our September 6th Celebration of James Bay United Church and our Neighbours is moving along at pace. We already have a timetable of events and are beginning to make detailed plans for food, entertainment and special activities. Mark the day on your calendar, and watch the ENews in the coming weeks for ways you can volunteer and be a part of the celebration.

In the Broader Community: What Goes Around

So much is happening right now! Social Justice activities, public events, arts and culture, so many ways to be connected and a part of your summer in the city. Cue the music and sing along! 


Symphony Splash Returns after 5 Years

Sunday opens with another youth orchestra performance at 3:30 pm, followed by the signature Symphony Splash concert featuring the Victoria Symphony and young piano soloist Patrick Cao. The night concludes with Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, Amazing Grace, and a fireworks display.

Here's a great read about the Splash!


Hiroshima-Nagasaki Day: A Reminder

When and where: August 6 at 6 pm, Gorge Park Pavilion, 1070 Tillicum Rd

Join this free, family-friendly community gathering by Greater Victoria Peace School held outdoors at the beautiful Japanese-style Gorge Park Pavilion marking the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings.

Details on Eventbrite

Grandmothers Against Genocide: Solidarity Witness

From our friends at KAIROS Victoria:
A group of grandmothers and older women who were wondering how they could show their support for the children in Gaza got together last Friday and held a one hour “stand” at a busy intersection. The experience was empowering; we were heartened by the number of passing cars honking and showing their support of our efforts. Because we thought that more women and grandmothers might be interested in joining an action like this one, some members from Broad View United as well as KAIROS Victoria decided to organize 4 more of these solidarity witness actions. The location is on the corner of Saanich Rd and Blanshard, up a block from the Uptown shopping mall. Come around noon so that we can begin at 12:15
August 8, 22 and September 5, 19.

Questions: email Susan Grace Draper at sgedraper@gmail.com

More information on Facebook



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Email us at communication@jamesbayunited.com

We love to hear from you! Not only when we make a mistake ;-)

Happy BC Day Weekend!

Gordon and Natalia