SPPC Today

News for Sunday, June 7, 2026

This Sunday we are very pleased to welcome the Rev. Grant Wilson back to the pulpit at Saanich Peninsula Presbyterian Church. Rev. Irwin Cunningham is away, attending the General Assembly of The Presbyterian Church in Canada as commissioner for this week, returning next Friday.

General Assembly

The 151st General Assembly of The Presbyterian Church in Canada meets at the Keele Campus of York University in Toronto, Ontario, from Sunday, June 7 until Thursday, June 11, 2026. Bringing together an equal number of ministers and elders commissioned from presbyteries across the country, this gathering represents the highest decision-making body within the denomination. The week begins with an opening Communion service at Vaughan Community Church in nearby Thornhill, setting a prayerful tone for the intensive business sessions, or sederunts, held in the Second Student Centre at the university. During these days, commissioners engage in the vital work of discerning the mind of Christ for the denomination, electing a new moderator to succeed the Rev. Jeffrey Murray, and reviewing reports from various committees and agencies.

The General Assembly is foundational to the life, identity, and governance of the church, serving as the ultimate court of appeal, theological discernment, and legislative action. It is the venue where regional diverse voices may coalesce into national vision, voting on sometimes complex matters of theology and church polity that can reshape how the Gospel is shared across Canadian communities. Beyond establishing policies and debating overtures, the assembly provides a crucial space for corporate worship, mutual encouragement, and connection. At a time when congregations navigate shifting cultural landscapes, the decisions made and relationships forged on the York University campus help steer the denomination toward long-term renewal, social justice, and faithful stewardship. To understand how these sessions are organized and conducted, you can view the 2026 General Assembly Commissioners Orientation. This video provides helpful insight into the daily functions, procedures, and leadership structure that guide the courts of the church during this assembly. You can also learn more about the Assembly here.

Worship this Sunday

Our worship service this Sunday 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 1

• Matthew 13:24-35

This week our choir is singing the anthem I Will Sing Unto the Lord by Jamie Killion and Joseph M. Martin.

Announcements

• Just a reminder for those who signed up for the Sunshine Lunch, it will take place on Monday and will have a Hawaiian theme.

• Our next Wednesday Study takes place on June 17 at 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

• We are next gathering for Friendship Coffee on June 25 at 10 a.m. Come and join us for this wonderful time of fellowship and bring along a friend.

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

  • 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

Memorial

• The Memorial Service for Stewart Black will take place next Saturday, June 13 at 1:30 p.m., here at Saanich Peninsula Presbyterian Church. If you are unable to attend, but would like to participate the link for the service is here.

Community Events

• Choral Evensong will be sung by the Youth Choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church (9691 Fourth Street, Sidney). There will be a freewill offering. All are welcome. Choral Evensong has its roots in ancient English monastic tradition. The present format began in the sixteenth century. Today this old and beautiful service is sung every day of the week in many places around the globe. With its inspiring ethereal music and eloquent language, Choral Evensong can provide a peaceful, restful end to the day.

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.