Pastoral placements involve carefully matching the needs of local churches with the skills and attributes of pastors. Pastor Frankie Lazarus, Ministerial Secretary at the Conference explained the process. “It begins as a conversation between myself and the Administrative Committee (ADCOM) at the Conference. I share my thoughts based on my experience in the conference and conversations with the pastors and I include the input and contributions from ADCOM. These discussions encompass a broad range of considerations, from the goals of the local churches to the overarching vision and objectives of the Conference”.

The recommendations are then brought before the Pastoral Placement Committee, chaired by President Jakov Bibulović with Pastor Lazarus in attendance. Once again, the names of potential pastors and churches are discussed in-depth. Changes and new recommendations may arise after the meeting. This method ensures that the best possible matches are considered, enhancing the prospects for successful pastoral placements.

When final decisions are reached, the selected names are presented to the Ontario Conference Board. Here, the names undergo further discussion and a vote, officially approving the pastoral placements.

Pastoral transfers pose a unique challenge as they must consider both the receiving church and the congregation where the pastor is leaving. Second-round transfers are sometimes necessary to ensure the right match for those congregations that have lost pastors. President Jakov Bibulović noted “The Conference is always looking to improve the process. I am grateful to God that we received valuable feedback during this process which will help to make future transfers more effective.” Pastor Lazarus emphasized, "The ultimate goal of each placement is to create a happy and supportive pastor-congregation relationship that work productively together in ministry for God's glory."

In the coming weeks, the OCN will be closely following these developments. As new pastors are placed, we will announce their installations, providing readers with the latest updates and changes within the conference.

Pastor Shawn Ellis
Director of Communications and Media

The "Love Is Medicine" event will offer a range of relationship-focused sessions, providing attendees with valuable insights and tools for strengthening their bonds with loved ones. In addition to these sessions, Paradise Health is offering an array of complimentary services, including health consultations, and invigorating hydrotherapy experiences.

Readers of the Ontario Conference News are eligible for an exclusive offer. By visiting Paradise Health's website and entering the code "adventist," OCN readers can enjoy a special discount on the various programs and services offered during the "Love Is Medicine" event. Don't miss this opportunity to nurture your relationships and invest in your wellbeing

Pastor Shawn Ellis
Director of Communications and Media

Throughout the campaign, Pastor Melchizedeck preached passionate sermons that revived the spirits of church members, convicted invited guests, and encouraged online participants. At the end of the series, 17 individuals were baptized. The members at Heritage Ghanaian rejoiced at the new believers baptisms and celebrated the power of the Word to transform lives.

Pastor Kenneth Appiah Kubi
Heritage Ghanaian Seventh-day Adventist Church

The event was attended by Several Members of Parliament including John McKay, MP for Scarborough-Guildwood; Filomena Tassi, representing Hamilton West–Ancaster–Dundas; Gary Anandasangaree, serving Scarborough–Rouge Park; and Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business and MP for Mississauga–Streetsville.

The morning began with reading a message of greeting from Prime Minister Trudeau by Liberal MP Shaun Chen. Arielle Kayabaga, MP for London West and Chair of the Black Liberal Caucus, officially welcomed participants. She shared about the importance churches play in shaping communities and their service to the country.

The gathering was uplifted by an inspirational praise session led by retired Pastor Winston Hurlock, former pastor of the Scarborough Seventh-day Adventist Church. The worship stirred the hearts of those present, prompting a unified "amen." Pastor Hurlock then delivered the initial devotional message. The theme for the day was based on Ephesians 4:32: "Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

Throughout the morning there were prayers for the community, youth and leaders.  The service also included candid discussions. Minister McKay praised the churches for their unwavering focus on ministry and their ability to speak truth to powe, unencumbered by political affiliations. This acknowledgment resonated deeply with the audience.

Reverend Sam Tita openly expressed the community's disappointment with the government's response to the refugee crisis, urging officials to see their plight through the lens of Jesus’ compassion, and render more meaningful support.

As the final prayers concluded, the gathering transitioned into a valuable networking opportunity for pastors and ministers. Government ministers exchanged information about available grants for churches to help them better serve their communities, especially those in need.

The inaugural Prayer Breakfast for Black Church Leaders in the GTA left an indelible mark, bringing spiritual leaders, government officials, and community advocates together in a spirit of unity, faith, and shared purpose. It was more than a morning of prayer but a call to action and affirmation, reminding all of the important role of the church in offering hope and wholeness to a broken world.

Pastor Shawn Ellis
Director of Communications and Media