SPPC Today

News for Sunday, December 14, 2025 — Advent 3

This week we celebrate the Third Sunday of Advent as we light the Candle of Joy, marking a shift in the season. Until now, Advent has been about solemn waiting and preparation, but the Third Sunday reminds us that our waiting is full of hope. As the Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4). The joy we celebrate this week isn’t just a festive holiday mood or a temporary happiness. It is a sturdy, defiant confidence. It is the assurance that despite the brokenness and anxiety we see in the world around us, God has not abandoned His creation. We rejoice not because everything is perfect, but because we know the Lord is near.

As Christmas approaches and the schedule gets busy, it is helpful to remember that the first Advent didn’t happen in a perfect setting either. It happened in the poverty of a stable. The profound mystery of the Incarnation is that God chose to enter our world exactly as it is. He didn't wait for humanity to clean up its act before He showed up; He came to be with us in the mess. As we make our final preparations, let us hold onto that simple, earth-shattering truth: God is with us, right here and right now.

Worship this Sunday

Our 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 63:1-8

• Isaiah 55:1-13  Anyone who is thirsty, come drink; the word accomplishes God’s purpose.

• John 4:9-14

This week our choir is singing the anthem I wonder as I wander by John Jacob Niles.

Christmas Services

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: Wednesday, December 24 at 7:00 p.m.Christmas Eve

• Christmas Day Service: Thursday, December 25 at 10:30 a.m.

Upcoming

• White Gifts: we are still collecting toonies for white gifts until this Sunday, December 14. The collection basket is at the entrance to the sanctuary.

• Our Advent Food Bank Drive for the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank ends this Sunday, December 14, though you are always welcome to drop off donations. During Fellowship Time there will be a poinsettia draw for all those who donated. The most needed items at the Food Bank remain:

  • Food Items: Baby Food, School Snacks, Juice, Cereal, Peanut Butter & Jam, Coffee & Tea, Dry Soups, Condiments, Pasta Sauce, Hamburger Helpers, Canned Meat & Fish

  • Toiletries: Female Hygiene Products (i.e. Tampons & Pads), Tooth Brushes, Shampoo, Body Wash, Soap, Razors, Toilet Paper, Disinfectant Wipes

• The next Sunshine Lunch takes place Monday, December 15 at noon. Cost $20. It will have a Christmas theme.

• Carol Sing & Shortbread Bake-Off: Mark your calendars for the First Annual SPPC Carol Sing and Great Peninsula Shortbread Bake-Off and Bake Sale!

  • Date: Sunday, December 21

  • Time: 2:00 p.m.

  • Bakers Needed! We are seeking bakers for the     shortbread competition. Categories include: Scottish, whipped, flavoured, decorated, or a special category for men and first-time bakers.

  • Sign-Up: Please sign up in the narthex. For more details, contact Alice Valdal or Janet Smith.

• Our Wednesday Study will resume on January 14.

Community Events

• A Celtic Christmas Concert: Support our Minister Emeritus, the Rev. Noel Kinnon, who will be performing with The Greater Victoria Police Chorus.

  • Date: This Sunday, December 14

  • Time: 2:30 p.m.

  • Location: The Salvation Army Victoria Citadel (4030 Douglas Street, north of McKenzie Avenue).

  • Tickets: $25 each. Please contact Rob at 250-208-2813 to purchase.

May God 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.