Church Beyond Walls

Hello! Welcome to St. Matthias! 

On Sunday, August 31st, we'll welcome the Season of Creation - an annual, international way to consider the wondrous gift of Creation.  This year's theme is "Peace with Creation."  

You may recall that this summer we've had a major disruption in our parish emails.  We are well on the way to full efficiency, but there are a few of our email addresses that aren't yet restored.  So, an ongoing note of caution.  If you've received any "surprising" or "unusual" emails from someone using our stmatthiasvictoria. ca address, please be cautious.  We won't be "offended" if you (wisely) double-check by phoning us.   And, because some of our email users may not yet have full access, please note that some of us have a large backlog.  If you're expecting a response and haven't received one, please use our office telephone number and we'll relay the message.  We'll be checking the voicemail frequently.  Thank you for your patience!

The people of St. Matthias acknowledge that we are part of society's need for reconciliation.  It is part of being in a society that hopes for justice, while realizing this is not the work of a day or a week ... it's an ongoing  journey of understanding 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.   

We're delighted to offer you draft sermons from our priest, Reverend Colleen, and from our guest preachers.   Remember ... each draft is similar to what we hear in person, but often missing late insights, chuckles and changes.  And, just so you know the editor's noticed:  we're a bit behind on the posting of Reverend Colleen's sermons, but have just added a few!  We'll catch up soon!  Meanwhile enjoy them and, we hope, come and listen for yourself!  Click here https://www.stmatthiasvictoria.ca/blog to read one, a few, or all! 

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.