SPPC Today

News for Sunday, May 10, 2026 - Mothers' Day

The modern origins of Mothers’ Day are rooted in a desire for peace and social action, long before it became a hallmark of floral arrangements and greeting cards. In the mid-nineteenth century, Ann Reeves Jarvis organised “Mothers' Day Work Clubs” to improve sanitary conditions and reduce infant mortality. Following the American Civil War, Julia Ward Howe issued her famous Mothers’ Day Proclamation, envisioning a day where mothers would unite across national lines to promote the amicable settlement of international disputes. It was later, in 1908, that Anna Jarvis held the first official memorial service for her mother, eventually leading to the day's formal recognition. While it began as a secular movement, the Church adopted the celebration because it resonates with the biblical commandment to honour our parents and reflects the nurturing, sacrificial love often associated with the divine.

However, we recognize that Mothers’ day can be a complex and even painful experience for many. While we celebrate the gift of maternal care, we are also deeply mindful of those for whom the day brings a sense of loss or longing. Within our faith community, we strive to broaden our understanding of motherhood to include all who offer guidance, protection, and love. Our hope is that this Sunday remains a celebration of this special grace.

Worship this Sunday

Our worship service begins at 10:00 a.m. You can participate in person or connect with our community online via the live stream. The link is available here.

The Scripture readings are:

• Psalm 25:1-10

• Luke 9:43b-48

• Philippians 1:1-18 — Partnership in the Gospel

This week our choir is singing the anthem Special Moments by Dave & Jean Perry.

Memorial

A service to honour the life of Brian Dowse will be held this Saturday, May 9 at 2:00 p.m. here at Saanich Peninsula Presbyterian Church. The service will be broadcast on our live stream here. A fellowship reception will follow the service, providing a time for us to gather and share memories together.

Announcements

• During this month of May we are holding a Clothes Drive for the Mustard Seed Street Church. Take the opportunity to clean out your closet and to help those in need. Some suggestions: sweat pants, jogging pants, shorts, tee shirts, coats, underwear, socks and shoes.

• Do you know someone who would like to have an opportunity to make a real difference in a young Native person's life? Talk to Pam after the service on Sunday, to find out what is involved in volunteering with the Blue Bus Ministry on the Saanich Peninsula.

• Our Wednesday Study of the book of Ephesians resumes this week on May 13 at 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

• 2026 a two-day choral marathon, this Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the sanctuary (924 Douglas Street, Victoria). Admission is free. Presented by the St. Andrew’s Music Outreach program, local and visiting choirs and singing groups share their music with the community. Each group sings for 20 minutes, creating a vibrant showcase of voices. A performance schedule is available here.

• If you would like to receive our weekly email newsletter, please contact the office or fill out the form here.

Community Events

• The Greater Victoria Police Chorus presents A Mother’s Day Concert… Mama Mia! with special guests Island Ukuleles. Directed by Tina Horwood and Patricia James, this concert takes place this Sunday, May 10 at 2:30 p.m. at the Salvation Army Citadel (4030 Douglas Street, Victoria). Tickets are $25 here, or from Rob at 250-208-2813.

• The Sidney Celebri-Tea takes place Sunday, May 24, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Bodine Hall in the Mary Winspear Centre (2243 Beacon Ave, Sidney). There will be an amazing line-up of loved performers and personalities, including Jack Knox, Gregor Craigie, Sunny Shams, and Big Hank Lionhart with Terry Medd with the afternoon tea, which will be served with a lovely selection of savouries and sweets. There will also be a silent auction. The event is in support of the Medical Equipment Lending Service and Adult Day Programs provided on the Peninsula by the Mount Newton Centre Society. Tickets are $50, including the show and tea and must be purchased in advance by May 18. They can be purchased at Tanner’s Books (2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney) in Sidney or at Eventbrite Sidney Celebri-tea.

May the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all!

SUNDAY MORNING

Welcome to Saanich Peninsula Presbyterian Church. 

Our worship takes place at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday morning both in-person and online (via the SPPC YouTube Livestream button above). We invite you to join us each week as we continue to explore and follow the Word of God. Following the service, there is a fellowship time at the back of the sanctuary.

For the safety of your neighbours, when you attend worship: 

• Please, perform a health check prior to attending.

• While masks are not required, feel free to wear one if you prefer.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday.