After church this Sunday we are going to decorate the Christmas tree and hopefully put up some lights outside our main entrance. Please stay and help if you are able!

We began a new venture this Fall with our first ever English Conversation Circle.  It took courage and hope for each of us--Ukrainian newcomers and Canadian mentors--to come to that first session eight weeks ago. We were all a little unsure of ourselves not knowing what to expect from each other and ourselves as we as we mingled for the first tim trying to make polite conversation over a cup of tea. But after we took unrushed time to listen to each others stories--stories of dislocation and sorrow but also of hope and resilience--while sitting in a circle in that first session, the ice was broken. We had taken the risk of vulnerability and found ourselves held in community. In the space of a few weeks a remarkable transformation took place: we were no longer strangers but friends. 

Last Saturday, we had a lovely celebration to mark all that we had accomplished together. The words of gratitude and tears flowed easily.  Thank-you to our teacher, Nataliya for sharing the history of her beaded vyshyvanka and family coral heirloom necklace. And thank-you to all of our Ukrainian friends for the wonderful feast of Ukrainian dishes traditionally served at the Christmas Eve meal. We capped off our time together with making ribbon angel Christmas tree ornaments.

We look forward to gathering again in February for Phase 2 of our circle. 

With thanks to the BC Synod and CCEF Fund for making this community building initiative possible.

Come join us on Dec. 18th for a special musical Sunday morning service. The choir will be singing, the kids have learned some songs and will also hear from our Ukranian friends.

After the service we will have coffee and goodies, so bring your favorite Christmas treat to share!

This service and our Christmas Eve service will be livestreamed. 

Our Christmas Eve Service starts at 7:30pm. Come join us as we celebrate the birth of Christ with carols and candlelight and Holy Communion!