During the past years of economic hardship, Ontario Conference Church members remained faithful in giving to the church.

This commitment has yielded a remarkable blessing, allowing the Ontario Conference to provide a financial subsidy to each church.

"This subsidy," as clarified by Virene Meikle, treasurer for the Ontario Conference, "is not sourced from tithe but is a direct result of the recent surge in interest rates across all conference deposits."

The subsidy is provided to fund church ministry and expand outreach efforts as each local church board approves. Every church has received a subsidy and a notification letter as of the time of this writing.

Luke 6:38 (ESV) states in part, "Give, and it will be given to you.." We continue to praise God for his goodness and mercy.

Pastor Shawn Ellis
Director of Communications and Media

Today after morning worship at the Ontario Conference, an unexpected ceremony unfolded, spotlighting the service of David Forsey, the Assistant Superintendent of Schools. The president recognized his 37 years of dedication to Adventist education and him with a medal commemorating his sacrificial service.

The surprise didn't end there. In a move recognizing Forsey's contributions and service, the Board of Directors for the Ontario Conference appointed Mr. Forsey as Associate Superintendant of Schools.

In an interview following the ceremony, Mr. Forsey responded very humbly. "It is hard for me to receive this recognition," Forsey shared, "I prefer working behind the scenes. To God be the glory for how He has used me. By His grace, I look forward to continue working to support and recognize the work of our amazing teachers and principals in the Adventist School system."

Congratulations, and may God continue to bless your work.

Pastor Shawn Ellis
Director of Communications and Media

In an ongoing commitment to foster a safe and welcoming environment, 35 individuals from three churches in London undertook a Food Handler Certification Course on Sunday, November 26. Facilitated by the London Training Centre, the experience was enriching and eye-opening.

The course will equip members with essential knowledge and skills to ensure the highest food safety standards during church gatherings. The comprehensive program covers everything from proper food handling techniques to understanding potential hazards. The 35 participants were enthusiastic, demonstrating their dedication to the well-being of their church family.

Richard Jackson, pastor of the North London and Living Truth Churches, shared his thoughts on the significance of this initiative. "Ensuring the safety of our congregation is paramount. This certification empowers our volunteers and members with valuable skills. It reinforces our commitment to creating a secure and nurturing environment for everyone who walks through our doors."

As the members from the Living Truth, London and North London congregations move forward, they carry the knowledge gained into service and fellowship. The course equipped volunteers to ensure that every gathering, whether for church members or the community, was a testament to the church's care for others' well-being.

Kerryann Thomas Black
Assistant Communications and Media Leader
North London Seventh-day Adventist Church

A total of 18 teams joined the Adventurer Bible Game (ABG) held on Sabbath, November 11 at Toronto Perth Seventh-day Adventist Church. This Bible learning program is designed to challenge Adventurers and their parents to study passages from God's Word. This year's ABG was based on the books of Genesis (chapters 25-50) and Ruth (chapters 1-4).

Congratulations to all Adventurer/Parent Teams! Keep up the good work! Next year's book: Luke (chapters 1-24).

Click to see more photos of the event.

Pastor Edwin Martin
Director of Adventurers, Master Guides and Pathfinders

Below are the rankings of the following participating ABG teams:

On Sunday, November 19, at Scarborough Adventist Church, the Triennial General Meeting of the Ontario Conference Master Guide Council (OCMGC) selected Master Guide (MG) Cherrie Ann James as the new Executive Coordinator.

With an impressive track record of service as the director of the Hamilton East Commissioners Master Guide Club, Cherrie Ann James embodies a deep commitment to God and the Adventist Church. Known for her passion for youth ministry, she possesses a unique gift for mentoring children and young adults as dedicated disciples of Christ. Her exceptional communication skills and knack for engaging young individuals in creative ministries and mission-driven endeavours promise an exciting tenure.

Joining MG Cherrie Ann James in the OCMGC leadership team for the upcoming  2024-2026 term are newly appointed District Coordinators—Ralph Seraphin, Bafana Nyoni, Deandra Favorite, Tamika Brown, Jasmine Lawrence, Charles Deans, and Lisa Blair—who bring diverse experiences and expertise to the council. Additionally, Carmel Clermont takes on the role of Secretary and Irene Darrell-Austin assumes the position of Assistant Secretary, focusing on social media engagement. Pastor Travis Afflick has been appointed as chaplain, reinforcing the spiritual foundation of the council.

The transition in leadership also prompted expressions of deep appreciation for MG Robert English, the outgoing Executive Coordinator, who served the council diligently from 2021 to 2023. Pastor Edwin Martin, Ontario Conference AMP Ministries Director, commended MG English for his instrumental role in advancing the Master Guide Ministry, especially during the challenges posed by the global pandemic.

"His outstanding leadership and dedicated service have propelled the Master Guide Ministry to its current stature," Pastor Martin acknowledged.

Acknowledgment was extended to the entire outgoing Executive Committee, comprising Marcia Martin-Thomas, Carla Bromfield, Argelis Almonte, Alexis Fedeé, Shanelle Racine, Sophia Dailey, and Pastor Josue Manigat, for their significant contributions during their tenure from 2021 to 2023.

Expressing optimism for the future, Pastor Martin expressed confidence in MG Cherrie Ann James and the newly assembled team, affirming their divine calling to elevate the Master Guide Ministry within the Ontario Conference. He eagerly anticipated collaborating with the new leadership to fulfill the mission entrusted to them by God.

The conclusion of the OCMGC Triennial General Meeting was marked by solemn dedicatory prayers led by Pastors Andrew Thomas and David Marinque, invoking divine guidance and blessings upon the new set of OCMGC officers as they embark on their transformative journey of service and leadership within the Adventist community.

Pastor Edward Martin
Director of Adventurers, Master Guides and Pathfinders

The Sabbath School Department of the Ruth Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated Community Guest Day on November 25. Among the many visitors were twenty-two asylum seekers who were transported from a local shelter by a member and warmly welcomed into the congregation.

The focus for sabbath school was entitled "Mission to the Needy." It focused on how to emulate Christ in dealing with the needy and embrace everyone, especially those in vulnerable positions.

Pastor Frankie Lazarus, Ministerial Secretary at the Ontario Conference, delivered our midday message, "Still Standing Strong," which was well received, and the visitors commented that the message strengthened their faith in these trying times.

After the service, a warm, healthy meal, including dessert, was served to all guests. During the meal, church members spoke with guests who felt welcomed and happy to be with the Ruth church family. Some even expressed the desire to return the next Sabbath.

After the meal, visitors were sent on a free "shopping spree" in the Ruth Church boutique, stocked with boots, coats, comforters, hats, scarves, and toiletries. They were able to take as much as they could carry. While they "shopped," the look of surprise and thanks was evident on their faces.

"And the king will answer and say to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, in as much as you have done it to one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it to me." - Matthew 25: 40.

Sabbath School Department
Ruth Seventh-day Adventist Church

On November 18, Apple Creek Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted an impactful Prison Ministry Day themed "All Rise." The Prison Ministry department, led by Georgia McLaren, has been recognized for some time by the North American Division for its strength in leadership

The event drew distinguished dignitaries from law enforcement and government agencies, marking it as a special occasion. Among the esteemed guests were dignitaries from the police force and David Mitchell, past president of the Association of Black Law Enforcers and former Deputy Minister of Youth Justice Services. He was honoured by the church for his longstanding support and advocacy for prison ministry. In his response, he recognized the importance of Apple Creek and the church in general in their faith-based initiatives that help reintegrate and restore incarcerated individuals.

Pastor Andrew King, Director of Compassion Ministries, also affirmed the ministry at Apple Creek and reminded the congregation of the upcoming Prison Ministries Convention in 2024, where there will be training for those who wish to support incarcerated people.

Sergeant Gardner, a decorated police officer, was recognized for outstanding achievements at various detention centers. He expressed gratitude for the recognition and discussed the critical role the Seventh-day Adventist Church plays in the journey of those within detention centers. He emphasized that the church's unique position serves as a bridge between suicide prevention and life transformation by guiding individuals to encounter the healing and hope found in Jesus Christ. Sergeant Gardner said about the church and detention centre partnership, "It's more than just keeping order; it's about helping these individuals find a new path, one that leads to inner peace and salvation."

"Kids With Incarcerated Parents" (KWIP), an organization that supports children and families, was also in attendance, along with several children who actively listened to the children's story. Derek Reed, the representative for KWIP, reminded the congregation of the often-forgotten face of incarceration: the children. He mentioned that while it is hard to get support for the organization and its efforts to break the cycle of intergenerational crime because of the stigma of incarceration, he was thankful for the support he received from the church.

There was also a heartfelt testimonial by Stafford Winter, a former incarcerated person. He spoke of his mistakes, the time he served and how he gave his life to Jesus. He also said that one of the Apple Creek prison ministry elders provided him with work when "no one else would" and that he was a consistent presence of support in his life.

Musical artist and speaker Norwill Simmonds shared the Word. He spoke about how there are times when God allows situations to occur to test your faith. He then recounted his situation of how his children were charged with a crime. The turmoil of the situation drew him into a deeper relationship with Jesus, which sustained him as he and his family navigated the difficult situation.

At the close of Prison Ministry Day, members witnessed how the church can work with prison staff to bring hope to the lives of the incarcerated, how love showed by members can make a lasting difference when the incarcerated are released and how Jesus can transform lives and give people the strength to get through the most difficult of times.

Pastor Shawn Ellis
Director of Communications and Media