I (Greg) struggle to find words to describe what happened on Lapu Lapu Day in Vancouver. None of the words “attack,” “incident,” or “tragedy” quite capture the senselessness of what one person did to dozens — and by extension, thousands — of others. Sadness, grief, anger, and fear are all reasonable responses.

We hold the victims, their families, and their communities in our prayers. We hold each other. And we hold the attacker and the attacker’s family in our prayers as well: to do something like this points to a deep, deep level of inner brokenness and unwellness.

We will never fully understand why things like this happen, but we continue the work of building strong communities where each person has a sense of belonging — where bridges can eventually be built across rivers of brokenness. And we speak of God’s grace, actively mending hearts that have been broken.

Spring brought joy and community spirit as we marked 40 years of the James Bay United Church Thrift Shop! Relive the highlights—cake, music, and smiles all around—by checking out the video from the celebration.

A multi-generational choral celebration directed by Christine Chepyha, featuring classic songs by Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell, brought to life by Voices in Motion with special guests EMERGE Youth Choir. Prepare for a joyful sing-along of “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” “Galway Bay,” and more—an uplifting afternoon of connection, community, and song.

See the featured artist and full program details!

Join the James Bay community on Saturday & Sunday, May 3 & 4, 2025, for the inaugural Jane’s Walk in James Bay, a weekend of exploration, connection, and discovery.

During Sunday's service, we will mark Red Dress Day (Monday, May 5) to commemorate murdered and missing indigenous women. Wearing red is a powerful way to call for justice on behalf of those now without voice.

This Sunday we read that what's typically called “The Last Supper” (the Passover celebration just before the Crucifixion) wasn't actually the last supper Jesus ate with his friends. They still got together for fish (and chips?). In this story, we see disciples continuing to have “Christ moments”. We, today, continue to have Christ moments: Jesus appears to us in many ways. Grace abounds. And we also hear Jesus imploring his disciples to continue his work.

Welcome: Rev Greg Powell
Music Lead: Jennifer Turner
Tech Team: Nathan McDormand, Jamie Waters, Barry Putz
Scripture reading: John 21: 1-19
Read by: Janice Langley
Reflection: Rev. Greg Powell
Bulletin

We are excited to announce that Centering Prayer will resume on Monday, May 5th. Join us as we come together in quiet contemplation and deepen our connection to the divine. We look forward to welcoming you back!

Please note that there will be no Chen Style Taiji or Yang Style Taiji Qigong classes from April 21 to May 4. Classes will resume as usual following this short break. Thank you for your understanding!

You're invited to a Welcome Lunch on Sunday, May 4 at 11:45 AM in the church hall. Meet others, make connections, and enjoy a delicious meal together.

 Experience the benefits of mindful movement, breath, and energy work with weekly Qigong classes at James Bay United Church. This gentle, progressive practice supports healing, vitality, and overall well-being. Open to beginners and those with some experience.
Wednesdays at 9 AM | Lower Hall | $45/month or $15 drop-in

What brought you to James Bay United Church—and where do you see us going? The new Board began their work with a heartfelt and hopeful conversation about who we are and who we’re becoming.

Experience a powerhouse performance of Work Song by Cannonball Adderley, brought to life by the Kelby MacNayr Soultet. This dynamic quartet—Miguelito Valdes (trumpet), Dr. Tony Genge (piano), Peter Dowse (bass), and Kelby MacNayr (drums)—will be joined by very special guest, New Orleans saxophonist Connor Stewart. Expect rhythm, soul, and a night of unforgettable jazz energy.