Our 2024 Thanksgiving appeal is now underway to ensure we can meet the needs of the world for the next 133 years. Does that sound ambitious? We hope so!

At James Bay United Church we create space for the full complexity of the human experience. We want to be known as a community of hope, though we acknowledge despair; as a place of abundance, and embrace simplicity; as a place of inclusion, and celebrate individuality. 

Places like James Bay United Church are rare, and yet the world needs us now more than ever.

We’ve set a goal of raising $10,000 between Thanksgiving and October 27. That means we have two weeks to connect with our members and friends to inspire a sense of abundance and generosity. Now, that’s ambitious!

The good news is we’re well on the way. Our board members have pledged their support. And recently our community generously responded to the call for funds to purchase chairs for the sanctuary. We met that goal nearly twice! Maybe we can do that again.

Before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s take stock of some of the many vital ministries of which we are so proud. Our Sunday mornings are always rich experiences. Our arts ministry, including Jazz Night at the Church, packs the house. Our thriving Thrift Shop is the heart of our neighbourhood, and our Thursday lunches nourish and connect our community. We have a dedicated maintenance crew that keeps our building and grounds in ship shape. And were you aware we are the only church on Vancouver Island offering training in Healing Pathway these days?

We’re also proud of the initiatives with Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and the Land and the many partnerships that fill our building with music on a regular basis.

This is the stuff of hope. 

Our work wouldn’t be possible without supporters like you. This Thanksgiving, please consider topping up your giving to James Bay United Church so hope will continue spilling out of the sanctuary and into the community.