The Synod 2024 opening worship will take place on Friday, November 1, the Feast of All Saints. It is a day when we celebrate the thin veil between life and death, and remember those we love and see no longer.

We invite you to remember your loved ones with us during synod opening worship. Whether or not you are able to join us in person, send in the names of those you would like remembered. We will hang a prayer flag with each name in the cathedral for the worship service as a visible reminder of the cloud of witnesses that joins us in our worship.

Please submit names of anyone who has died who you would like remembered at the service (not just those who have died since the last synod). To submit names, CLICK HERE.

Following two years of listening and planning, a task team has chosen a new name for PWRDF. 

During discussions, the task team was drawn to the theme of "partnership," a theme woven throughout the Bible, and the story of the road to Emmaus in particular. It is a story that illustrates how Jesus accompanies us, as we walk alongside one another. Through partnerships, supporting, listening and sharing with one another, PWRDF aims to embrace and embody the hope of a better world.

From these themes and discussions arose PWRDF's new name: Alongside Hope. And a new tagline: Anglicans and partners working for change in Canada and around the world.

For more information about PWRDF's new name, click READ MORE.

The Ecclesiastical Province of British Columbia and the Yukon will mark Refugee Sunday on October 20, 2024.

The province has released a video sermon by the Rev Scott McLeod, who is originally from Vancouver Island and served in ministry in six parishes in the Diocese of Islands & Inlets. During that time, Scott also served as coordinator of the diocese's refugee program. Scott is now the chaplain at Renison College. 

The readings for the sermon are:

• Genesis 18:1–8;
• Psalm 40;
• Micah 6:6–8;
• Luke 10:25–37.

To view and download the video, click READ MORE.

To view more information about Refugee Sunday, CLICK HERE.

A reminder to synod delegates in the Mid-North Island region that your regional meeting will take place on Saturday, October 26.

When: Saturday, October 26, 10am–12pm
Where: St. Anne & St. Edmund, Parksville located at 407 Wembley Road

For up-to-date information about Synod 2024, click READ MORE.

A reminder to synod delegates in the Greater Victoria region that your regional meeting will take place on Saturday, October 19.

When: Saturday, October 19, 2–4pm
Where: St. Mary, Oak Bay located at 1701 Elgin Road

For up-to-date information about Synod 2024, click READ MORE.

Diocesan Synod 2024 will open with an All Saints' Day service at Christ Church Cathedral on November 1 at 7pm. A reception will follow. All are welcome.

If you cannot attend in person, the opening service will be livestreamed via the cathedral website. 

Enjoy delicious canapés and timeless ambiance with friends old and new. Browse a silent auction and delight in performances by local vocalist Stephanie Greaves and the cathedral’s own Mark McDonald.

All profits go towards keeping the cathedral’s doors open 7 days a week as a community gathering place for personal reflection, worship services, concerts, and outreach.

To register for this event, CLICK HERE.

The deadline to submit your Parish Annual Operating Grant application is October 31, 2024 at 5pm.

To learn more about this grant, click READ MORE.

In this issue:

Bishop's Column: A month of thanksgiving
Rebecca Yeo and Mona Smart ordained to the sacred order of deacon
Oh God, it’s Otter!
An invitation to stretch
A letter to the editor

To view the October issue of Faith Tides, click READ MORE.