Imran is the brother & son of the Afghan refugee family currently in Pakistan that we are sponsoring. He had been living in the USA under the threat of deportation to Afghanistan by ICE.

On Tuesday Imran met with the Canadian Border Services Agents to enter Canada from the US. At first there was jubilation, followed serious concern. While being granted entry into Canada, he has been told he must leave the country or risk deportation. The stumbling block at the moment is his prior application for refugee status in the US when he arrived a year ago with a Student Visa, which expired in May 2025. By law, this disqualifies him from applying for refugee status in Canada.

At the same time he has been advised to apply for a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment, and there is a strong case to be made for his protection. We are continuing to stand with Imran and assure him of our support, including helping to cover legal costs.

Your prayers for Imran’s well-being and the safety of the members of his family in Pakistan continue to be critically important.

This Sunday we read Luke’s account of Jesus imploring his listeners to humble themselves: we are not to assume the seat of honour, but rather wait to be invited into it. This helpful social advice might point to something deeper: letting go of status altogether. Much of our energy is devoted to presenting to the world a version of ourselves that we believe we ought to present, rather than presenting our true selves. Richard Rohr the true self the “inner diamond”. Our task is to uncover our inner diamond for ourselves and allow that inner diamond to present itself. For most of us, this task is very difficult. The good news is that God is already coaxing that inner diamond to come out.

It’s almost here! Our GREAT BIG Open House happens next weekend, and we encourage you to check the event page to plan your time, especially on Saturday, September 6th.

Among the latest additions to the schedule:
– Qigong (Chi Kung) with Curtis Nadj, 11 am – noon
– Singing in Harmony Workshop with Jennifer Turner, 1 pm – 2 pm

You’ll also find our ministries at engagement tables throughout the day – a chance to meet us in person, learn more about our programs, or even offer a helping hand.

Come curious (and hungry), leave inspired (and full) – this is community at its best!

If you want to see Jennifer and Gordon and Christine in a completely different light, plan to check out the Children's Concert during the September 6th GREAT BIG Open House. Most importantly we need your help getting the word out! If you know families with young children, send them this link and say something like:

This free concert is going to be great fun. It is geared to the 4–8 year old set, but all ages will be delighted by these musicians

Our Healing Pathway Ministry returns this Fall with opportunities for rest and renewal.

Beginning September 10, Public Sessions will be offered in the Sanctuary on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 1 pm and 2 pm. To book an appointment, email Charmaine at our new email address: healingpathway@jamesbayunited.com.

Private Soaking Prayer Chair Sessions and Distance Healing Sessions are also available on request.

Our Monthly Practice Group resumes on September 24 at 2–4 pm (4th Wednesday of the month).

For any booking or questions, please contact Charmaine at the new email above, or ask Carol Garceau or Cheryl Macpherson at church.

Let us remind you that this Saturday, August 30 at 2:30 pm, our beloved Music Minister Jennifer Turner will be singing in an intimate garden concert at Goward House. She’ll bring to life tender and joyful works by J.S. Bach and Henry Purcell in the beautiful outdoor setting.

Admission: $5–25

Bring a chair or a blanket and enjoy an afternoon of music under the summer skies.

This Sunday, August 31st from 12–1:30 pm we’ll hold the one and only rehearsal for our Sunday Worship Choir Service on September 7th, happening during our GREAT BIG Open House weekend.

Whether you’re new or experienced, you’re warmly invited. Come be a star in our special service and lift your voice with the community!

Join us for a discussion with members of various faith communities to hear about the connections between climate and faith, and what actions can be taken to oppose LNG.

The webinar will cover:

• Anglican, Sikh and Muslim perspectives on the importance of climate action to faith communities
• Environmental, health, and affordability impacts of LNG
• Why LNG is not a climate or energy solution for Canada

REGISTER HERE for this informative online seminar.

Our United Church partner, Naramata Centre is a tremendous resource. Right now they are presenting some online programs that are very relevant to many of us receiving this ENews. This link takes you directly to their Online Course Information page and we encourage you to have a look at: 'The Possibility of Age', the precursor course to 'Sage-ing Circles' and also 'Truth & Times Like These'.

Naramata Centre is a blessing. Check out what they have to offer.