A family service on the beach
On Sunday, Aug. 17, St. Philip’s, Oak Bay, held a family service at Willows Beach. Most of what happens at a regular eucharist was reprised, though parts of the liturgy reflected the ocean setting; some participants chose to feel the sand between their toes! The children present constructed a cross out of driftwood; the music team led in praising God; and Allen Doerksen, incumbent at St. Philip’s, waded into a difficult passage about the divisive impact of Jesus’ ministry. Afterwards coffee and treats were served; passers-by joined in and stayed for the coffee time. Now that this service has happened two years in a row, it’s safe to call it a parish tradition!
A baby shower with a twist
During the month of May 2025, St. John the Baptist Anglican Church in Duncan was invited to participate in a “Baby Shower.” The shower was hosted by the parish ACW for the benefit of Duncan’s House of Grace. Parishioners were invited to donate new items — clothing, blankets, diapers, toys — to be presented to the local centre. House of Grace was most grateful of the support from St. John’s.
Highway to heaven
The man on the roof of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Sidney (see photo gallery above) likely didn’t have the 1980s TV series in mind as he walked along cleaning moss off the roof and steeple. Up there, however, he was likely closer to heaven than any parishioner has ever been.
Amazing Journey day camp enters 14th summer
This summer was the 14th year St. Luke’s, Cedar Hill, together with neighbours Lutheran Church of the Cross, held the Amazing Journey day camp. The camp was held in the mornings from July 7 to July 11 and the theme was “Fun with Living Water.” There were 40 campers registered, and 17 youth volunteers and 10 adult volunteers helped out for all or part of the week. Many of the youth volunteers were campers themselves when they were in preschool and elementary school and enjoyed being camp leaders. We had a great time at the camp: singing, playing games, hearing Bible stories, doing crafts and enjoying snacks. The campers and volunteers agreed that this was an amazing week at day camp.
Anglican and United traditions mingle
On Sept. 7, 2025, St. Philip’s, Cedar held its annual “Welcome Back” Sunday joint service with Cedar United Church. A wonderful sharing of Anglican and United traditions, this service allowed all to see the many commonalities and to experience unique aspects of each denomination’s worship practices.
