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Mississauga Seventh-day Adventist Church Honours Community Leaders During Black History Month Celebration

February 25, 2026 | Joan Walters | Mississauga Seventh-day Adventist Church

Celebrating “Strength in Struggle”

This Black History Month, Mississauga Seventh-day Adventist Church proudly presents “Strength in Struggle,” a powerful celebration honouring the resilience, faith, and enduring contributions of Black Canadians.

The theme reflects the perseverance that has shaped Black history in Canada — paying tribute to trailblazers such as Viola Desmond, Greg Fergus, Judge Pamela Appelt, and Justice Donald McLeod. Their courage and leadership continue to influence communities across the nation and inspire future generations.

Under the spiritual leadership of Senior Pastor Royston Smith and the coordination of Youth Pastor Romario Bonnick, the church will host two special evenings dedicated to recognition, reflection, and celebration:

Saturday, February 21, 2026

An awards ceremony was held to honour Judge Pamela Appelt, who made history as Canada's first Afro-Canadian female judge of the Court of Canadian Citizenship. A distinguished community leader, she was recognised for her exceptional leadership, public service, and advocacy for equity and advancement.

Saturday, February 28, 2026
A second worship service of tribute recognising impactful voices within both the broader community and our local congregation. The program will also feature guest speaker Dennis Langley from Burman University in Alberta, who will bring insight and encouragement to close out the month’s celebration.

Reflecting on the significance of the theme, Youth Pastor Romario Bonnick shares:

“As Black men and women, we have endured slavery, segregation, discrimination, and injustice. Yet we are still standing — not because the trials were light, but because we are rooted and grounded in God.”

Each service will feature inspiring stories, heartfelt tributes, and testimonies that honour the legacy of those who paved the way while celebrating the leaders shaping our future. Organizers describe the event as both a celebration of achievement and a reminder that meaningful progress is built through perseverance, unity, faith, and community support.

Members of the media and the public are warmly invited to attend and share in these meaningful gatherings.

Event Details

Date: February 28, 2026
Time: 11:00 am – 1:30 pm
Location: 2250 Credit Valley Rd, Mississauga, ON L5M 4L9

RSVP/Media Inquiries:
Head of Communications, Joan Walters – communicationsdirector@mississaugasda.com
Communications Officer, Brianna Pillay – bwilliams@mississaugasda.com

About Mississauga Seventh-day Adventist Church

Our vision is to “Proclaim Christ’s love so that all will be saved.”
Our mission is expressed in four words: Connect. Grow. Serve. Inspire.

Joan Walters
Communication Leader,
Mississauga Seventh-day Adventist Church