FROM THE RECTOR'S DESK:
Last week clergy from across the diocese gathered in Parksville for a week of learning, praying, sharing and fellowship – our annual Clergy Conference. And while for this little introvert of a priest it is an exhausting week – this year it was also incredibly fruitful as well.
 
Our time started off on Monday where we were introduced to the concept of joy becoming sacred resistance. A strange phrase at first, but these words became the pervasive theme of our entire week, as we learned to infuse joy into the ways we lead and minister in community. The idea is that in a world that pulls us into worry, uncertainty, fear, conflict – things that can cloud our hearts – daring to embrace joy and live into the good news of Christ at all times becomes sacred resistance to the ways of the world.
 
Our Guest speakers for the week were Bishop Jeffery Lee and Music Director and hymn writer Dent Davidson, both from the Diocese of Chicago. Together these two friends (who have worked together for decades), demonstrated the joy of what we do at its finest. We were reminded that the story we tell, stories of God’s unfailing and unimaginable love, is the best news we could ever have but sometimes we forget. We were reminded that through story and song we need to enliven in hearts, bringing joy to all we do in the church, so that through our work and worship the good news becomes palpable, felt as closely as our own breath.
 
Over the next few months I hope to introduce some of the bits and pieces from this week with colleagues to our community and I pray that together we can cultivate more joy so that all who come through our doors will know and experience the wonderful message of love.
 
Peace,
Kirsten +
‍2025 FALL WOMEN'S RETREAT:
 
Please find below a link to the application for the Fall 2025 Women's 
Retreat.
Bible Study – What is Peace?
 
Kirsten has started the next short-term bible study on Tuesdays from 10am -12pm. This 5-week study (May 13, 20, 27, June 3, 10) will explore the theme of peace, looking at a new way of understanding the idea of peace through the lens of scripture and personal experiences each week. There is no preparation required, all that is needed is an open heart and a willingness to share in the conversation! All are welcome to come, so mark your calendars and we will see you there!
 
Funeral For Darrell Sallenbach
 
There will be a funeral service for Darrell Sallenbach, beloved husband of Martine, on Saturday May 24th at 2pm with a reception to follow, all are welcome to attend. We will also be needing a few helping hands and someone to lead the kitchen for this event – so please speak to Linda or Kirsten if you are willing and able to assist, or coordinate the reception.