This Sunday we read from the lectionary, from John's Gospel, a somewhat esoteric teaching from Jesus. It is full of verb tenses that seem contradictory: how can something happen both in the past and the future? Following a line of inquiry consistent with mysticism, we delve into the notion of time, how Jesus might have perceived it, and what it means for us today.

Please note that our Sunday Service begins at 10:30. You are warmly invited to gather with us from 10:15 am, in our Sanctuary or online, for a time of musical reflection.

Our federal e-petition supporting vulnerable Afghan refugees is now officially live through the Canadian House of Commons e-petition system, with the support and sponsorship of our MP, Will Greaves.

In order for the petition to be formally presented in Parliament, it requires a minimum of 500 signatures from Canadian residents or citizens. The petition will remain open for 30 days, with the hope that it can be presented during the current spring sitting of Parliament before the House adjourns for the summer.

Because of this limited window, members of the congregation are warmly encouraged not only to sign the petition, but also to share it widely with friends, family, faith communities, advocacy groups and organizations that may wish to support this humanitarian effort.

Many thanks for your ongoing support and prayers!

Get ready! To celebrate the songs that feed our souls, kindle our courage, unite us across our differences, express our convictions, our daring hopes and prayers.

We invite you to submit a favourite hymn — a hymn that fills you up with strength, inspiration, comfort, hope, or joy. On June 7, we will celebrate by singing these hymns AND hearing a few words about why these pieces uplift you.

In preparation we’re asking you to:

1) Identify one or two hymns – from the Voices United or More Voices collections — that you absolutely love.

2) Fill in the online form, email Jennifer at music@jamesbayunited.com, or complete the form included in the bulletin during the May 14 and 21 Sunday Services and drop it no later than Tuesday, May 26 into the Singing Our Faith drop box in the sanctuary.

3) Come prepared on June 7 to tell us in 4 or 5 sentences what it is about this hymn that inspires you.

Please note that if we receive more hymns than can be sung in a one hour service, we’ll have to select from among them. Hold on to the ones not chosen and do this again in the future.

The evening’s film is Judy — the powerful story of legendary performer Judy Garland, focusing on her challenging final years in London. This remarkable film received widespread acclaim across major film festivals and award ceremonies. Renée Zellweger delivers a mesmerizing performance that earned her numerous Best Actress awards, while the film was also recognized for its costume design and makeup.

Doors open: 5:45 PM (rear entrance)
Potluck dinner served: 6:15 PM
Movie begins: 7:20 PM

Sunday Jazz Matinee at James Bay United Church proudly presents the Great American Songbook Trio!

Featuring the legendary pianist and vocalist Ms. Louise Rose, bassist Joey Smith, and drummer/vocalist Kelby MacNayr, the Great American Songbook Trio is a true tour de force of jazz.

Celebrating the limitless possibilities of melody, harmony, rhythm, and lyric, the trio brings to life classic compositions from the Great American Songbook with heart, soul, and the in-the-moment spontaneity that has earned them an international reputation.

Admission: by donation ($20 suggested donation, but all are welcome regardless of funds)

View Full Matinee Schedule

Last Friday Games Night before summer! This is your perfect opportunity to socialize and sharpen your board game skills in a casual, welcoming environment.

Join us in the upstairs reception (ramp entrance) at 7:00–9:00 pm.

Let’s laugh and play with friends, and don’t forget to bring a snack to share! We’ll provide hot drinks to keep you cozy as you play.

Healing Pathway Practitioners come together monthly on the 4th Wednesday of the month to build confidence and grow their skills in this important healing ministry. They offer the Healing Pathway techniques to each other, learning, growing and fostering community.

After May 27, the Healing Pathway Ministry will take a summer pause, returning in September.

For more information, please contact healingpathway@jamesbayunited.com

The Centre for Earth & Spirit invites you to attend a cinematic short film unveiling a vision for Natural & Conservation Burial, followed by an interactive speakers panel with voices in land stewardship, end-of-life care and community. A space for reflection, connection and meaningful dialogue. Filmmaker Kim Holl will be present.

Doors open at 6:10 pm; free parking on site. 

Watch the Trailer

Entrance by donation at the door or in advance at the Eventbrite link.

With the reference date for the 2026 Census of Population having just passed, Statistics Canada is encouraging religious organizations like James Bay United Church to help raise awareness about the importance of participation in the Census — including the question on religious affiliation.

A question on religion has been included in the Census of Population since 1871 and was last asked in 2021. Normally asked every ten years, the question has been included again in the 2026 Census because a wide range of multicultural and religious organizations expressed an interest in having more current information.

If you haven’t completed your 2026 Census questionnaire yet, we encourage you to do so today using the information you received in the mail, or online at the following link.

Help make sure our community is counted!