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A Multicultural Canada Day Celebration in Mississauga
Media Release: July 11th, 2007
By: Loraine Loach
"It's awesome", said John and Helen who arrived from China 8 years ago, attending the Canada Day - Celebrating the Nations event hosted by Kingdom House Christian Centre. John, who rarely takes time out from his busy work schedule, said "We live in the community and received a flyer on our door, so my wife asked me to bring her and our son. I'm so glad we came. We're having a wonderful time. It's amazing."
Over 200 people attended the free event that was held inside the Mississauga Secondary School on July 1st. Hosted by Kingdom House Christian Centre and supported by donations from The Toronto Blue Jays, Workopolis, Wyeth and others, music, entertainment, drama and prizes were only some of the day's highlights.
"It was great to see people from different cultures, many meeting for the first time, just come together and have a lot of fun", said Everol one of the event co-ordinators. "Our goal is to have it outdoors next year. I think then it will be even more spectacular."
The smiles on the kid's faces and their laughter said it all. With painted faces, balloons, organized games and great food, it was "the best", "really cool", "awesome", some young participants said.
"Our focus is to reach out to the community and let people know they're important and valuable." said Pastor Rob Meikle, senior pastor of Kingdom House Christian Centre.
"We want everyone to feel welcome and at home here."
Kim, arriving last night on her first visit to Canada from Antigua, said "Wow, this is fantastic. I feel like everyone's throwing a big party for me. Everyone is so friendly!"
Feeling a little hungry? You could smell the aroma of the burgers, BBQ chicken and hot dogs cooking on the barbecue as you entered the room. There was enough food for everyone including vegetarians. People from many different cultures came to enjoy this Canada Day celebration.
In closing, Pastor Rob Meikle thanked everyone for coming out. He said, "Many people have come from other lands to enjoy the freedom and better life in Canada." He continued by saying, "We must never forget the power of freedom. It's our common denominator…having a quest to enjoy freedom. Here in Canada, we can celebrate our diversity under one nation."
"O Canada. Our home and native land". How often do we even bother to think about the words of our national anthem?
"It was an honour to host this event, where so many nations are represented. It has been an exciting day just seeing people come together and enjoy a friendly environment where relationships are valued. This lays a foundation for God to do great things in our community and our church." I asked Pastor Meikle what his one thought for the day was. He said, "God keep our land, glorious and free."
And all the people said, Amen.
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