"Live Life Fully" was the invitation on our sign for several weeks this fall and the theme of the beautiful brochure of programs offered by James Bay United for anyone to be part of. What a fall it was with neighbourhood celebrations movie and music nights, spiritual practices of deep listening, bible studies, perogie making, community carol singing, colourful banners, prayer flags, rich Sunday morning worship and so much more. 

As we enter the new year it is clear that the congregation at James Bay has turned an important corner. Together we are embracing the work of building the foundation of a future church. A foundation of a United Church that will be very different than the one our founders started in the last century. Perhaps a community closer to a Jesus community where we work to serve each other seven days a week. Where we know and love our neighbour. Where we radically welcome the other. Where each empowered member goes out as serves as minister to the neighbourhood. The spiritual corner of Michigan and Menzies is alive and well and growing - not just in numbers - but in the way it is reclaiming its relevance in a post-christian world.

“I have come that you might have life and have it more abundantly.” - Jesus

Maybe it was a new year’s resolution … again! Or a spark of desire that … where did it go? This hope or longing to step more fully into life, to be more intentional about living life with grace, insight and wisdom, and to share in this holy adventure with others.

The opportunity awaits you to take a deeper dive this year.

Jazz in James Bay for the neighbourhood returns this Tuesday at 7 pm.

Toronto pianist and composer Attila Fias brings an all-star trio to Jazz at James Bay United. Blending the music of Jazz, Hungarian folk and classical music, Brazil samba and more, Attila takes listeners on a spell-binding journey through world of jazz and the piano trio. Long-time collaborator drummer Kelby MacNayr and bassist Louis Rudner couple with Fias to create a stellar, incendiary trio.

Making a Difference to your pain-experience. 6-session course on Tuesdays is off to a great start and there is still room for you to participate: Contact Gary for more information.

The Church and Thrift Shop played an important role as one of the neighbourhood organizers of last years Window Wanderland. And our windows were a big hit. We need YOU to come help imagine and create some great new displays for this year. It's fun and you can participate as your energy level and time will permit between now and February 23, 24, 25 when the whole neighbourhood lights up. - On Facebook? Please share the event with your friends.

Want to be part of the Window Wanderland James Bay team? Contact Gordon: [email protected] or 250-213-1948 Subject: Window Wanderland sounds like fun! How can I help?