Creation Time continues this Sunday as we reflect on Moses’ encounter with the burning bush. What might it reveal about our own relationship with the Holy, and the transformative nature of fire? We’ll also turn to Christian mystics for practices that help us quiet distractions and open more fully to God’s presence within and around us.

This service will also mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day), remembering the children and survivors of residential schools and honouring the 10th anniversary of the “Every Child Matters” movement. You are invited to wear orange as a visible sign of solidarity and commitment to truth and reconciliation.

A congregation member has commissioned a JBUC hymn to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the United Church. We are going to take a collaborative approach and draw out words and ideas from the congregation and later workshop ideas with the choir and other parties.

As a first step, over the next several weeks, you will be invited to answer a question each week. Please feel free to interpret the question however you like and to say as much or as little as you would like.

First question: As a congregation, what do you feel we are working towards?

Tuesday, September 30th is Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. 

The orange shirt has become a symbol of hope, reconciliation and a commitment to a better future. Wearing an orange shirt on September 30th is a statement to support reconciliation and commit to the enduring truth that EVERY CHILD MATTERS.

As mentioned above, everyone is also encouraged to wear orange to our service on Sunday, September 28 to commemorate the residential school experience and honour the journey of survivors and their families.

In 2025, we mark the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) final report, which included 94 Calls to Action. You can follow milestones and track progress on the Calls to Action here.

Please consider attending one of the many events going on in Victoria to recognize Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, including the South Island Powwow at Royal Athletic Park.

What a beautiful evening it was in the Labyrinth – music, community, and a gentle space to pause.

Rehearsals start right after the Sunday Service, 12:00–1:00 pm. All voices welcome!

Choir Service: Sunday, October 12 – Thanksgiving Sunday
Rehearsal #1: Sunday, September 28 • 12:00–1:00 pm
Rehearsal #2: Sunday, October 5 • 12:00–1:00 pm

Explore the evolution of Justice across cultures and ages. From ancient concepts of cosmic order to modern declarations of human rights, this presentation delves into humanity's ongoing quest for fairness, equality, and a harmonious world. Discover shared principles, signs of progress, and diverse perspectives on Justice.

The presenter, Harold Rosen, is an author and interfaith educator in world religions, ethics, and comparative spirituality.

Our neighbours at the James Bay Community Project (547 Michigan St.) offer group and individual support for seniors 65+ who would like help with technology. Topics include spotting scams, using a laptop, phone, and more. You can sign up for either a group session or a one-on-one time slot with an instructor.

Schedule (Mondays, September 2025 – March 2026):
Individual sessions (45 minutes): 11:15 am, 12:15 pm, or 1:45 pm
Small group sessions (1 hour 15 minutes): 2:45–4:00 pm

To register: contact JBCP reception at 250-388-7844 or askus@jbcp.bc.ca

A new music opportunity is coming to James Bay United Church: the Friday Music Jam!

This welcoming group is open to instrumentalists and singers of all levels who are interested in making music together. We’ll explore and rehearse repertoire that may be offered during Sunday morning services at JBUC.

When: Fridays, October 3 – December 12 (no meeting October 24)
Time: 5:00 – 6:15 pm

Jennifer Turner will help facilitate the group and organize music for services, but this is a collaborative group where you can bring your own ideas!

Believe it or not, we’ve landed in the international spotlight – half a world away! The world-renowned Agence France-Presse has published an article about James Bay United Church, including our official comment… in their Slovak edition! And yes, the context is anything but ordinary.

Curious what JBUC might have in common with Slovakia’s opposition leaders? Check out the article at the link below (you can use the auto-translate feature to read it).