These Islands and Inlets
Grateful for the hospitality of the First Peoples of Turtle Island, we acknowledge that we worship, work and play on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish, Nuu-‘chah’nulth and Kwakwaka’wakw peoples, and we thank them for their hospitality.
Ministering on these traditional territories, we are a regional expression of the Anglican Church of Canada, part of the worldwide Anglican Communion, and one part of the whole body of Christ. Established in 1892, the diocese originally covered the entire Canadian province of British Columbia. Over time, as the population of the province grew, new dioceses were formed. The Diocese of British Columbia is now one of five dioceses of the Ecclesiastical Province of British Columbia and Yukon, and includes Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands of the Salish Sea (Strait of Georgia), Broughton Archipelago and Kingcome Inlet.
Diversity & Unity
We are a thinking church; we value reason and thought, and we value diversity as part of our unity. With our roots in the British Isles, our current expression has been uniquely shaped by a long history in a Canadian context. We are progressive church, open to the leading of the Spirit in this time and place. We seek the full inclusion of all people, are committed to serving the poor and working for economic equality for all people on these islands and inlets. We seek healing and reconciliation with the First Peoples of Canada.
Fulfilling our Vision
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to be faithful stewards of the gifts entrusted to us to further Christ’s church. Over 7000 members strong, the Anglican church on these islands and inlets is actively engaged in service to our neighbours through the local expression of 46 worshipping communities and numerous other ministries.
Inspiring Gospel work is being undertaken in every corner of our diocese. Whether it is the revitalization of living indigenous languages, Christian arts programming, worship renewal, theological and lay leadership formation training, summer programs for children and youth; innovative parish renovations, or creative online communications strategies—we are a church enthusiastically responding to God’s vision of Renewed Hearts, Renewed Spirits and Renewed People on these islands and inlets. Learn more about the collective ways we are a part of what God is up to in the world by visiting the Faith in Action section of our website.