Category: For Adults

QVC: A Social Group for Gay, Bisexual, Lesbian and Transgendered

By: joan mason | January 12, 2010

In the past there has been great misunderstanding between the Christian community and the gay and lesbian community. This has led to much abuse, both ways, so that it has been difficult to be “out” as a gay, bisexual, lesbian or transgendered person in the Christian community or as a Christian in the gay and lesbian community.

The United Church is working to break down the barriers and has a network of supportive, affirming and or inclusive congregations. It worked with other groups to bring about the legalization of same-sex marriages.

Please let anyone you know who may be interested that Queer Victoria Christians, a new, seeker-friendly social group meets monthly at  First†Metropolitan United Church. This social group is for gay, bisexual, lesbian and transgendered people who wish to explore their connection with God. Sponsored by the Victoria Presbytery of the United Church. For more information:

  • E-mail: QVC
  • Phone: (250) 544.8312
Also posted in Events, Making Connections, Social Groups | Comments closed

Hospitality Committee Members Needed

By: joan mason | June 16, 2010

The fellowship hour that follows Sunday services is an important ministry that welcomes newcomers and visitors and provides a social time for all members of our congregation. We are looking for someone to help on the committee with the goal of assuming responsibility for chairing the committee in the future. The chair oversees the running of the Sunday morning coffee hour and some of the other hospitality functions that occur at the church. A friendly personality and willingness to engage in conversation are important . Organizational ability and FoodSafe training would be an asset. For more information:

Also posted in Volunteer | Tag(s): | Comments closed

United Church Women (UCW)

By: r.a. paterson | January 4, 2009
UCW Logo

The purpose of the UCW as stated in its constitution is to unite women of the congregation for the total mission of the church and to provide a medium through which we may express our loyalty and devotion to Jesus Christ in Christian witness, study, fellowship and service. The UCW supports and cares for the women within the UCW membership and also extends goodwill to all women of the Congregation.

The UCW has more than forty committed members, working within two units, namely:

  • Mildred Mossop
  • Unity

Each unit holds monthly meetings. Meetings include presentations by First†MetropolitanChurch staff and congregation members as well as by outside presenters. First†Metropolitan members attend Presbyterial meetings four times each year. A Presbyterial highlight of the year is the June event at Camp Pringle – Day Apart.

The UCW makes financial contributions to the First Metropolitan United Church’s Children, Youth, Young Adult and Family Ministry, Outreach Ministry, Hospitality team, Health and Wellness Ministry, the Flower Committee, and the Grace and Howley James Fund. In addition, the UCW supports the United Church of Canada’s Mission and Service Fund, the Kitchen at George Pringle Memorial Camp, sponsorships of children to attend summer programs at Camp Pringle, and the UCW UCW Presbyterial and its Projects Fund.

Another function of the UCW is the continuing connection with the young children on the Cradle Roll. Birthday cards are sent to children ages one to three. In addition, cards are sent to UCW members on special occasions: 90th birthdays, Anniversaries, get well messages, thinking of you and sympathy cards.

We support events of the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada such the World Day of Prayer and the Least Coin Project. Many members attend and participate in these programs. Our members continue to share their knitting skills. We have given bags of knitting (socks, mitts, toques, little sweaters, and dishcloths) for the Knitters Group and Midwives in Africa to distribute.

It has become a tradition to hold a special inter-denominational worship services at Advent. Members of the UCW experience bonds of friendship, fellowship and pastoral care.

Category: For Adults | Tag(s): , | Comments closed

UCW Meetings

By: r.a. paterson | June 13, 2009

There are two UCW units which meet regularly, each group meeting on a different day and at a different time. The purpose of these groups is Christian fellowship, Bible study, spiritual growth, outreach and community service. They also do fundraising to help in areas within our church.

  • Mildred Mossop meets on the third Monday of each month at 10:15 am.
  • Unity meets on the third Thursday of each month at 12 noon

Please bring a bag lunch. All groups meet in the Doreene McLeod Room.

For more information, see our UCW page, or contact Joan Dowse at (250) 652-9766 or Marie McKee at (250) 592-7238.

Category: For Adults | Tag(s): , | Comments closed

Men’s Breakfast

By: r.a. paterson | April 13, 2011

Dates: First and third Wednesday of month
Time(s): 8:30 am
Location: ABC Restaurant at Douglas and Burnside

Men, join us for fellowship and food on the first and third Wednesday of each month. All men are welcome!

Also posted in Events | Tag(s): , , | Comments closed

Mothers’ Morning Out

By: r.a. paterson | September 10, 2010

Date: The 1st and 3rd Friday of every month.
Time(s): 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: First†Metropolitan United Church

Mothers with preschool children will get together with various activities and discussions, including exploring our understanding of faith and family questions. Children are looked after by caregivers during the session. In Fall 2011, a rhythm band will be offered for preschoolers as part of the Mothers’ Morning Out.

Mothers' Morning Out Group
Also posted in Events, For Children & Families | Tag(s): , , | Comments closed

Folk Vespers

By: r.a. paterson | April 1, 2011
Amy Collins, Jeff Poynter and friends

Held on the Third Sunday of Each Month from September to May at 4:00 p.m.

Join University of Victoria Music students Amy Collins, Jeff Poynter and friends for a contemporary worship service on the first Sunday of each month at 4:00 pm in the chapel from October to May. This service was formerly known as Contemporary Sabbath. All are welcome to this spirit and music filled worship service. Young Adults usually meet for a shared vegan supper following the service, hosted by Henri Lock, UVic chaplain. Volunteers are needed who will make a pot of soup (carrot, pumpkin, minestrone – gluten-free and vegan) for the supper. Please call Fran Pollet if you can help.

Of further musical note:

Here is your opportunity to sing with friends – old and new. A group of young people (ages 16 – 29) meeting weekly to sing their joy, share their songs and grow together. The fall season starts on September 12th meeting at 7p.m. at Oak Bay United Church (corner of Granite and Mitchell Streets).

Share this group with nieces and nephews who may be in town for school/university, with your grandchildren or children, with friends and neighbours – check us out on Facebook: facebook.com/singyourjoy. A magical thing happened this past spring when those 20 singers took the stage – be part of it this season!

Also posted in For Youth, Services of Special Interest | Tag(s): , , | Comments closed

Family Counselling Program

By: joan mason | October 1, 2011

Are you suffering from depression or anxiety? Are you a couple struggling to separate or restore your relationship, Do you have issues with alcohol and drug dependency, anger management? Do you need assistance with conflict resolution or mediating a conflict?

Karl Ireland has a Master’s degree in Counselling and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor. He is a retired member of the BC Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Karl and his wife Sheila moved here from Kamloops two years ago and joined our congregation.  They raised their family in Haida Gwaii and lived in Kamloops for 15 years, where Karl had a private practice in family therapy.  They have three children and five grandchildren. Karl likes to work with multi-generation families and extended families.

Cost: The fee is varied according to people’s ability to pay, from 0 to $100.00 per session. Clients are given a tax deductible receipt from First Met for the fees they pay. All who wish to come for counselling are welcome.

Contact: To arrange a session or for further information, you may contact the First Met office at 250-388-5188 or speak to Karl directly at 778-433-4022.

 

Also posted in For Children & Families, For Seniors, Health & Wellness, Pastoral Care | Comments closed

Newcomer Gatherings

By: Brian Shields | April 18, 2011

New to FirstMet?

Come, join other newcomers for refreshments, conversation and an opportunity to meet our staff. We will be sharing information about First Metropolitan United Church and the programs we offer. Gathering follows the 11 am service and is in the Doreene McLeod Room. Contact Sharon at the Front Office (Ext 221 or  office@firstmetvictoria.com ) or Merle at 250.361.0064 or email merle.nicholds@gmail.com to attend.

Also posted in For Seniors, New to Us?, Newcomers | Tag(s): , , , | Comments closed

Tai Chi

By: Admin | June 9, 2011
Tai Chi ClassTai Chi Class

(Tai Chi Chuen)

Date: Mondays and Wednesdays
Time(s): 12 noon to 1:00 p.m.
Location: First†Metropolitan United Church

Join other men and women in learning Tai Chi to improve their inner and outer balance, while also having fun! Newcomers always welcome. Speak to Carol Halvorson (250) 386-6670 for more information. There are no sessions when the Monday is a statutory holiday. Check the events calendar for dates. Beginners and returnees welcome!

Come and feel your energy flow!

No fee but donations welcome.

Also posted in Events, For Seniors, Health & Wellness | Tag(s): , , | Comments closed