A heartfelt thank you to the congregation for the warm support and thoughtful gifts during my maternity leave. The books and toys you gave are truly appreciated — believe it or not, some of the books have quickly become Zain’s favorites when I read to him! Your kindness and thoughtfulness mean so much, and it has been wonderful to feel connected to the community even while away.

— Zunaira

 This Sunday’s service highlights World Food Day and the Christian response to world hunger. We’ll learn about the compassionate work of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, a partnership that includes the United Church of Canada, and reflect on how we can be part of building a world where all are fed.

Presiding: Anne Manikel
Music Lead: Jennifer Turner
Tech Team: Nathan McDormand, Jamie Waters, Alan Thurston
Christ Candle: Peggy Hodding
Scripture Reading: John 6: 1-15
Scripture Reader: Owen McCooey
Reflection: Anne Manikel
Prayers of the people: Anne Manikel
Bulletin

Our fall pledge campaign is coming soon—and we need your voice! We would be so grateful if you would let us know, confidentially, how much you expect to give next year by completing the pledge form to Karen at karen.halliday.hoult@gmail.com. We’re also inviting supporters to record brief selfie videos explaining why James Bay United Church matters to them. Interested? Contact Karen Halliday from the Fund Development Team for details.

Our Music Minister, Jennifer Turner, will be among the featured sopranos in Octet Victoria’s upcoming concert, Howells’ Requiem – a luminous and deeply moving program of choral works by Herbert Howells, Joanna Marsh, Arvo Pärt, Healey Willan, and James MacMillan.

This rendition of Octet Victoria will be a 16-voice, fully conducted ensemble, led by Char Hodgkins and David Stratkauskas.

Saturday, October 25, 7:30 pm (7:00 doors)
St. John the Divine Anglican Church, 1611 Quadra Street
Free admission – donations encouraged

Don’t miss this beautiful evening of music and reflection!

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

Choir Service: Sunday, November 9
Rehearsal #1: Sunday, October 26 • 12:00–1:00 pm
Rehearsal #2: Sunday, November 2 • 12:00–1:00 pm

An inspirational and practical conversation with Shelly (Educator) and Dr. Azin Nasseri (International Psychologist and Clinician) exploring principles and strategies for building happy and peaceful relationships in homes, communities, and the wider world. Learn the essential qualities of a healthy marriage and how unity-based relationships foster peace and prosperity.

- University of Victoria Multifaith Centre, West Campus Gate (next to Finnerty Gardens, Parking Lot 6)
- Free parking on Sundays

Shelly and Azin are the founders of the United Marriages Institute.

After taking a pause this week, we’re back on Friday, October 31 in the JBUC Sanctuary. All levels welcome – Jennifer Turner will help facilitate, but this is a collaborative group where everyone can bring ideas.

The Reconciling with Indigenous Peoples and the Land Team is co-sponsoring a screening of Nechako – It Will Be a Big River Again at UVic’s Cinecenta on Wednesday, November 6.

Nechako is a powerful documentary following two Indigenous Nations fighting for our collective future. When the Kenney Dam was built in the 1950s, the Nechako River was forever changed. The Stellat’en and Saik’uz Nations embarked on a groundbreaking legal case against the Canadian government and Rio Tinto Alcan—a battle that continues today. Through the lives of community members who live along the river, Nechako becomes an urgent call to action to restore both a river and a way of life.

Q&A with director Lyana Patrick following the 7:00 pm special screening

A heartfelt thank you to Natalia, our interim Communications Coordinator, for her outstanding work while Zunaira was away on maternity leave. Natalia kept everything running smoothly, managing communications, supporting events, and ensuring the community stayed connected. Her dedication and creativity have been truly appreciated, and we are grateful for her contributions during this time.

As Zunaira returns, Natalia will continue to be part of the community as a volunteer and occasional fill-in — and you’ll still see her up on stage introducing the amazing performers at Tuesday Night Jazz through December!