SPPC Today

News for Sunday, May 3, 2026

As we turn the calendar to May, the Saanich Peninsula is truly beginning to shine with the glory of God's handiwork. The air is warmer, the gardens and the forests are bursting with colour, and there is a renewed sense of energy in our community. It is a wonderful time to step outside, appreciate the natural beauty of creation, and enjoy the longer days that invite us into a slower, more prayerful pace of life.

This seasonal shift serves as a living parable of the hope we find in Christ. Just as the landscape is transformed by the sun, our lives are renewed by the persistent light of the Gospel, which sustains us through every winter of the soul. Hope is more than a wish; it is the "sure and steadfast anchor" of our faith, reminding us that even in difficult seasons, God is at work making all things new. As we gather together this month, may we carry that spirit of hope into our daily walk, offering the grace of the Lord to one another and finding joy in the beautiful promise of His presence.

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 147:1-12

• John 1:14-18

• Acts 17:16-34—Paul’s Sermon at Athens

This week our choir is singing the anthem I will serve the Lord all my days by Nancy Price and Don Besig.

Memorials

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of two faithful members of our congregation this past week. Brian Dowse passed away last Tuesday evening, and Stewart Black passed away on Wednesday morning. We ask that you please lift up their families and friends in your prayers, asking for God’s peace and comfort to surround them during this time of loss.

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

• We will also gather to remember Stewart Black on Saturday, June 13 at 1:30 p.m. His memorial service will be followed by a fellowship gathering, where we can continue to support one another and celebrate a life well-lived in faith.

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.

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

• 2026 Vancouver Island Presbytery Summer Camps: These Weekend Escapes are a camping ministry for people of all ages. Come and enjoy nature together. There will be speakers to engage the adults, activities to engage the children, and songs for everyone around the campfire. The Presbytery Camp Committee has reserved the following times and locations:

  • Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park June 8–12

  • Rathtrevor Provincial Park July 25–30

  • Rathtrevor Provincial Park July 30–August 3

  • For inquiries concerning the camps, you can connect with the Camp VIP Registrar at jermareng@outlook.com

• St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church is hosting Choirburst, an exciting two-day choral marathon on May 15 and 16, starting at 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. in the Church sanctuary, 924 Douglas Street, Victoria. Admission is free. Presented by the St. Andrew’s Music Outreach program, local and visiting choirs and singing groups will share their music with the Victoria community. The St. Andrew's choristers are singing at 10:30am on Saturday, May 16. Each group will sing for 20 minutes, creating a vibrant showcase of voices throughout the day. A performance schedule is available at https://www.podium2026.ca/en/choirburst

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 on Sunday, May 10 at 2:30 p.m. at the Salvation Army Citadel (4030 Douglas Street). Tickets are $25 at www.greatervictoriapolicechorus.com/events or from Rob at 250-208-2813.

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.