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On July 11, 2026, Adventists of African descent gathered in Toronto for their annual African Camp Meeting, a meaningful occasion celebrating faith, fellowship, and the rich cultural diversity of the African diaspora. Centred on the theme, “Rooted in Christ, Flourishing in a Foreign Land,” the gathering highlighted the importance of remaining grounded in Christ while thriving in new communities, fostering unity, spiritual renewal, and a shared sense of purpose.

Many attendees wore traditional African attire, creating a vibrant display of colour and culture. The worshipping congregation reflected a shared love for God and a common commitment to His mission.

The midday worship service began with the Parade of Nations, as Pathfinders proudly carried the flags of African countries represented at the camp meeting. The procession honoured the diverse heritage of those present and reminded the congregation of Christ’s commission to take the gospel to every nation.

Pastor Joseph Amankwah welcomed the congregation, saying, “At this camp meeting, there are so many groups representing the African continent, those in the diaspora, and friends and families. I stand in the Lord, as the psalmist said, ‘How good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.’”

Elder Dalu Sifani, Associate Treasurer of the Ontario Conference, brought greetings on behalf of the Conference administration. He also introduced the OneVoice27 global initiative, which will unite churches worldwide in a shared mission as we commemorate 2,000 years since the baptism of Jesus. “This is a call to have every church member involved in proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ,” he said.

During the Children’s Spotlight, led by Claudia Kahuma, young worshippers were reminded of the importance of following Jesus, the Good Shepherd and faithful Leader. The Scripture reading reflected the congregation’s multicultural character, with passages read in Fante, Kiswahili, Shona, Igbo, French, and English. The African Mass Choir then inspired the congregation with a moving rendition of “Hallelujah, the Lord Is Coming.”

The guest speaker, Pastor Donny Marandure, opened his presentation with an instrumental selection on the soprano saxophone, then delivered a Spirit-filled message. Originally from Zimbabwe, Pastor Marandure was raised in an Adventist home as one of six children. He served as a pastor in Zimbabwe from 1991 to 1997 before moving to the United States, where he ministered in the South Central Regional Conference. He currently serves as Manager of Chaplaincy Services at Methodist Richardson Medical Center in Richardson, Texas.

In his sermon on the indispensable role of the Holy Spirit, Pastor Marandure challenged the congregation to depend fully on God's leading. “You are not going anywhere without the Holy Spirit,” he said. “There are doors that will not be opened by your education. There are doors that will not be opened by your talents, your looks, or the way you speak. The Holy Spirit must go before you.”

Encouraging believers to trust in God's guidance, he added, “Trust the same God who guided the Israelites with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.”

The spirit of joyful worship continued into the afternoon program as the congregation participated in a vibrant musical concert. A repertoire of songs, accompanied by rhythmic movement and heartfelt praise, filled the sanctuary as worshippers of every generation came forward to present their freewill offerings. Young and old, men and women alike, united in joyful thanksgiving, expressing their gratitude and devotion to God.

The annual African Camp Meeting once again served as a powerful reminder that, while believers may come from many nations and cultures, they are one family in Christ—rooted in Him and flourishing wherever He has planted them.