Church Beyond Walls

Hello! Welcome to St. Matthias! 

You're invited to join us at any of our services -- no experience required, no "membership" or "expectations."  St. Matthias has been around for a long time ... we know there are folks who've worshiped at St. Matthias in past, but for their own reasons haven't been around recently.  As one of our community says, "it's safe to come back."  All are welcome; no exceptions.  

We're in the final journey of Holy Week, anticipating Easter Sunday.  This is the time when we focus deeply on God's love for each one of us.  During our Holy Thursday worship, we were reminded that Jesus bids us to love one another as he loves each of us.  A wonderful way to prepare for Easter!

On Easter Sunday (10 am) we'll "make a joyful noise unto the Lord."  Bring your handbells if you have them; there will be extras on hand.  We invite you to wear bright colours ... but, truly, we welcome you just as you are!

We post the wonderful sermons that inspire us during our Sunday worship. You can find the Lenten series starting at the following page:  https://www.stmatthiasvictoria.ca/blog/surrendering-control-the-call-of-the-desert-lent-1.  Each of the sermons, through March 29, is now online.  

We've been collecting both socks and underwear for the community at Our Place.  There's a basket at the entrance to the church and we invite your contributions.    Our Place informs us all of items in particular need, and we encourage you to check out their latest listing https://www.ourplacesociety.com/in-kind-donations/

The people of St. Matthias acknowledge that we are part of society's need for reconciliation.  Reconciliation remains what we, within society, hope for.  We believe we continue on a journey of learning and reflection. However you perceive God, the Creator, the Divine, please know that we proclaim the loving attention of the One who loves and knows each of us.  As difficult as the journey toward reconciliation may be, we rely on God's presence to sustain us as we encounter the challenge of our history.  

The word "church" holds negative messages or painful history for some.  But we still say:  "St. Matthias genuinely and warmly welcomes everyone who comes through our door, without condition or limit. " If you see yourself in the rainbow banner or the abbreviation LGBTQIA2S+, please know you're particularly invited.   

The church is more than buildings and programs. We are the body of Christ present in this world no matter who or where we are. We are a church without walls.  Thank you for your virtual visit!  All are welcome here. It's a place of safety and welcome.