At our August Board meeting, we picked up the governance work begun at our June retreat. 

The Board reviewed both the emerging organizational chart and draft governance model, with good discussion about how we can clarify roles, strengthen communication and better support the many ministries, programs and activities that make up the life of James Bay United.

This work will soon move into a wider conversation. On September 27, we will meet with staff, ministry and program leads to share what is taking shape and, importantly, to listen. Congregational meetings will follow on October 18 and November 15, with the goal of having a new governance model and organizational structure in place before the end of the year >>

Sunday Jazz Matinée Presents The CANUS Traditional Jazz Band!

Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon featuring some of the city’s most beloved traditional jazz musicians: pianist and vocalist Toni Blodgett, clarinetist extraordinaire Al Pease, special guest trumpeter and trombonist Jim Armstrong, bassist Joey Smith, and drummer and vocalist Lauri Lyster.

Join us at 1:30 pm for a special introductory swing dance lesson! No experience is necessary, and no partner is required.

Admission by donation ($20 suggested donation, but all are welcome)

Our Arts Ministry, which includes Tuesday Night Jazz at the Church and other great programs, events and activities is looking for some keen talented volunteers to be welcoming hosts, emcees, money counters, chair wranglers, and all-round good ambassadors for James Bay United Church.

Gordon and Kelby and Natalia will be hosting an orientation session on Saturday September 12th at 1:00 pm for about 90 minutes where you will get to hear about the opportunities, receive some basic training, hang out with like-minded community members and share some refreshments.

No long term commitments are necessary at this stage. Just a willingness to find out what volunteering for our Arts Ministry looks like and whether it is a good fit for you.

If you plan to attend, please email Gordon at gilroymiller@gmail.com to let him know. (Questions by email are also welcome.)

On August 5, 2026 the Community Lunch lost our beloved volunteer and cook, Jo Jansen. This sudden loss of such a valued and vital member of our community has deeply affected volunteers and guests.

Jo was an amazing person who's caring and kindness touched anyone who came in contact with her. She was a valued friend to some of the volunteers and totally dedicated to the Community Lunch, coming in to do Prep on Wednesdays and everything needed on Thursdays for the past 3.5 years.

Greg our minister, conducted a Remembrance Group for guests and volunteers after the lunch this past Thursday.

A Celebration of her Life will be held Friday September 18 at 2:00 pm at the church. Refreshments to follow.

Jo's absence is deeply felt, and our Community Lunch team is now especially short of volunteers.

If you’re able to commit your time on Wednesdays from 12 to 2:30 pm and help our incredible chef, John, in the church kitchen, we desperately need you! It is such an honour to have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of 60–70 local community members each week.

Please contact Joanne Keelan at keejoan@yahoo.ca, or speak with her at a Sunday service, if you would like to be part of it.

Community Lunch will be taking a short break to give our dedicated volunteers some well-deserved time to rest, recharge, and reset.

We will be closed beginning September 24 and look forward to welcoming everyone back when lunches resume on October 22.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support!

Hello,

My name is Sheila Buchanan and I am part of the Sunday morning congregation at JBUC. I am looking for a bedroom to rent in the James Bay neighbourhood that would include the use of a bathroom (private or shared) and the shared use of a kitchen.

If you — or someone you know — are able to rent such a space, please contact me via phone at +1-514-962-1385 or via email at wsbuchanan77@gmail.com.

With gratitude,
Sheila