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June 25 - International Day of the Seafarer
Did you know? The International Day of the Seafarer (25 June), recognized by the United Nations as a day of observance, was established in a resolution adopted by the 2010 Diplomatic Conference in Manila. Its stated purpose is to recognize the unique contribution made by seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society as a whole. The resolution "encourages governments, shipping organizations, companies, shipowners and all other parties concerned to duly and appropriately promote the Day of the Seafarer and take action to celebrate it meaningfully".
Mission to Seafarers will mark the day within the diocese by visiting ships in port on that day and, on Wednesday, June 24th, with a time for prayer in the chapel at their waterfront centre. Details here.
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Clergy News
Archbishop John Stephens has appointed the Rev. Sebastian Way as Priest-in-Charge of St. Helen's, Point Grey, effective August 2026. He is originally from the UK where he is currently serving a busy town centre parish in Reading. Though a frequent visitor to Coastal BC, he is new to the diocese.
The archbishop has appointed Daniel Melville-Jones as curate of St. Bart's, Gibsons.
The Rev. Philip Barker had announced his intent to retire, effective September 30, 2026
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Ordinations
At the upcoming Diocesan ordination liturgy, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (transferred), it is Archbishop John's intention to ordain the Rev Shawn Bullock to the sacred order of priests and Mr Daniel Melvill Jones and Mr. Matthew Nichiporuk to the sacred order of deacons.
The liturgy will take place at Christ Church Cathedral on Saturday, June 27th, 2026 beginning at 10:30am.
All are invited to attend. Clergy are encouraged to vest, the liturgical colour is red.
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Inductions
Bishop Jim Mathes will be inducted as the Rector of St. Hilda's, Sechelt on Monday, June 22. The service takes place at 4pm. Clergy are invited and welcome to attend. The liturgical colour is red.
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Camp Artaban Day for Clergy
Back by popular demand, the day at Camp Artaban for clergy is scheduled for Saturday, July 25th.
The day will include lunch, a tour, worship, an opportunity to learn about the ministry of Camp Artaban, as well as free time (bring a book, some art supplies, or just plan to take a stroll in the beautiful setting of camp to spend some time with yourself and with God).
The cost is $100 and includes a water taxi from Horseshoe Bay and lunch.
To express your interest or find out more, contact Cameron Gutjahr - priest@squamishanglicanchurch.ca
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Government Grant for Seniors Programs.
The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) is a grants and contributions program offered by the Government of Canada. It provides funding for projects that make a difference in the lives of seniors and in their communities.
Community-based projects are eligible to receive up to $50,000 in grant funding for 1 year.
Applications for this grant are being accepted by the government until July 14, 2026 at 3:00 pm, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). If you have a program that might be eligible for this grant, get application details HERE.
(photo: Clay Banks/Unsplash)
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Employment Opportunities
St. Laurence Anglican Church is a growing, affirming community in Coquitlam.
The parish is now investing in dedicated ministry roles that nurture children and youth, deepen community, and strengthen its ecumenical partnership with Good Shepherd Lutheran Church through a shared youth ministry.
There are four positions currently open:
-Youth Minister (St. Laurence & Good Shepherd)
-Children & Families Minister (St. Laurence)
-Children & Families Outreach Worker (St. Laurence)
-Sunday Evening Fresh Expressions Pioneer (St. Laurence)
Full role descriptions and application details HERE.
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SAVE THE DATE: IMPORTANT DIOCESAN DATES 2026
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August 4 - 6: "You are the Salt of the Earth," Diocese of Islands and Inlets Summer Retreat.
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November 24-25: 50th Anniversary of the Priesting of Women. Registration open HERE. Hosted by Diocese of Island and Inlets.
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FORMATION & SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Full event listing available here
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Pathways to Peace Retreat
The Diocesan Youth Movement is offering an amazing retreat away at Camp Artaban! Open to youth aged 12-18.
The theme is "Until All Are Fed." We will explore social justice and food security. We'll also enjoy camp activities like campfires, walks in the forest, beach and waterfront time, and worship in the outdoor chapel.
Start: Friday, August 28 4:30pm - water taxi from Horseshoe Bay to Gambier Island
End: Sunday, August 20 3pm - water taxi from Gambier Island to Horseshoe Bay
Where: Camp Artaban, Gambier Island
Cost: 250/p.p (includes water taxi, all meals, and accommodation)
Questions? Bursary Info? Contact: youth@vancouver.anglican.ca (Lauren Odile Pinkeny, Missioner for Youth)
Register HERE.
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AROUND THE DIOCESE
Full event listing available here
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June 19 - Consecration of the Bishop of Yukon
June 21 - St. George, Maple Ridge
June 24 - Mission to Seafarers Waterfront Centre
June 28 - St. Andrew's, Langley
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HAVE NEWS OR AN UPCOMING EVENT TO SHARE?
-Want to submit an article for Topic? Contact Alicia with your proposal at least eight weeks before the publication date.
-Have an event to include on the diocesan on-line events calendar? If your parish uses a Tithely website, you can share News and Events directly from your website to ours using the "share" feature. If you don't use a Tithely website, you can submit your event using the form available here. Ideally, aim to submit your event at least three weeks before the event date.
-Something newsworthy coming up in your parish? Contact Alicia with information and we'll find the best way to share it with the diocese.
You can contact Alicia at communications@vancouver.anglican.ca
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