This is a gentle reminder that the Celebration of Life service for Aleksa Harkness will take place tomorrow, Saturday, July 19 at 2:00 pm at James Bay United Church.

Family and friends are warmly welcomed to gather in person. For those unable to attend, a livestream will be available starting at 1:45 pm.

We also invite you to read Aleksa’s obituary – a beautiful reflection of the love, strength, and spirit she shared with so many.

Let us come together in gratitude and remembrance to honour a life so deeply loved.

P.S. Please note that on Saturday, due to the Northwest Deuce Days events, there may be heavy traffic – especially along Dallas Road – and limited parking in the James Bay area near the Inner Harbour. We encourage you to plan ahead and check the official event website for details.

This Sunday we welcome the leadership of the Monday night guitar group – a group of neighbourhood guitar players who meet in the sanctuary every week. Our music will be their repertoire, and our reflection will weave together multiple moving parts, including our Scripture reading of the story of Mary and Martha.

Welcome: Rev. Greg Powell

Scripture Reading: Luke 10:38-42
Read by: Sarah Hovey
Reflection/Conversation: Rev. Greg Powell
Bulletin

This week Victoria has come alive with one of the world’s largest gatherings of pre-1952 hot rods. Expect stunning vintage cars, festive events, and plenty of photo ops – especially around the Inner Harbour and James Bay!

Please note:
There will be road closures, heavy traffic, and limited parking in the James Bay area, especially on Saturday and Sunday. If you're coming to church by car, please plan ahead and check the official event website for details.

Are you curious about other World Religions and how they relate to Christianity? We are living in a religiously pluralistic world. Not just far away, but in our own neighbourhoods. What are the challenges and opportunities arising from this reality? Come along to our series of 5 services exploring how Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and Judaism can enrich and help us explore our own faith as we seek to build bridges and make connections with other faiths and the people who embrace those faiths.

Based on the book Holy Envy by Barbara Brown Taylor.

This series will take place during our regular Sunday Worship services at 10:15 am at James Bay United Church.

You can join us in person or watch the livestream of the corresponding service. Livestream links will be shared each Friday in our newsletter and posted on our website.

An event SO BIG, we don't know what to call it?!

On Saturday September 6th, all day, James Bay United Church is CELEBRATING!

Our neighbourhood is amazing and we will be having a party celebrating YOU and celebrating all the creative ways we are energized and find connection and meaning in and around the spaces at 511 and 517 Michigan.

We know that our Ministries and Programs touch so many of you, our neighbours. So we’re having a party and you’re invited.

Food, music, thrifting, children's activities, special presentations and more!

Love working with food? We’re looking for a Wednesday afternoon volunteer to help prep our weekly Community Lunch – a 3-course, restaurant-quality meal that feeds 70 people and brings joy to many. You’ll work with a welcoming team, including a professional chef, in a relaxed setting.

Wednesdays, 12:00 – 2:30 pm at James Bay United Church (lower hall)

Contact Joanne Keelan at 250-650-2748 (text or call) for more info.

We’ve just published the summary of our recent James Bay United Church Board meeting, held on June 19, 2025. Stay updated on the latest decisions, plans, and community initiatives discussed by our leadership.

You can also access all previous summaries in the Archive section for a complete view of our ongoing work and transparency.

Grace, a UVic student who comes highly recommended by Joanne Keelan, is still looking for a place to rent starting September 1.

Her story:

I am a third-year student at the University of Victoria looking for a furnished or unfurnished place to rent, starting September 1, 2025. (Preferably a place that is cat-friendly). I am working toward my bachelor degree in social work with a specialty in child welfare.

I have a part-time job working in the child care field. I have experience working with both children and seniors. In my free time I like to crochet and scrapbook. I do not party, drink or smoke. I am a very clean and tidy person.

My rental budget is $500–$650. In exchange for lower rent, I can provide a couple hours a week to assist you in chores, dog walking, companionship, etc.

I am open to all types of living arrangements including private room and/or independent basement suite.

I can provide you with a background check, as well as character references. If you are interested, you can contact me by call or text at 250-415-4485.