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The Meadowvale Seventh-day Adventist Church marked Black History Month with a lively celebration on February 21, 2026, bringing together worshippers of all ages for an evening of cultural exhibits, traditional food, music and reflection.

Held under the theme “Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations,” the event highlighted the enduring contributions of Afro-Canadian, American and Caribbean communities to both the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the wider world.

Community Leaders Take the Stage

The program began at 4:30 p.m. with opening remarks from Ward 9 Councillor Martin Reid, who made history on October 24, 2022, as the first person of African descent elected to represent the ward in the City of Mississauga and the Region of Peel. , to represent the City of Mississauga and the Region of Peel. A lifelong Meadowvale resident, Reid has contributed more than two decades of volunteer service to the community.

Andrea Anderson, Roots Community Services Coordinator, also addressed attendees, providing practical guidance on accessing healthcare through the organisation’s Preventive Care Plan. She stated that “Roots offers several services in the community, such as A1C and blood pressure testing, Black Youth Helpline, Kids Help Phone (up to age 24), neuro-inclusive support, small business loan for females, and group counselling.”

Cultural Booths Showcase Afro-Caribbean Heritage

Five curated booths formed the heart of the celebration, each spotlighting Afro-Canadian-Caribbean heritage. Cordel Wright and her team served traditional foods, while Gemma Charles and Ruth Stewart displayed a rich collection of cultural dress. Meanwhile, Dorrett Bryan exhibited unique crafts and artifacts.

A music and technology booth featured audiovisual volunteer and praise team member Kemoi McMurray with singer-musician Ainsley Lewis, demonstrating the creative contributions of Black Adventists to worship and the arts.

Dramatised Journey through Black Adventist History

One of the evening’s highlights was the Black Adventist History booth, where Andrea Cato, Leasia Nelson, Verona Brissette and John Emily guided visitors through a dramatised account of the role of people of African descent in proclaiming the “Midnight Cry” — the historic 19th-century Adventist evangelistic movement.

Two young volunteers, 7-year-old Caysohn-Grace Walker and 11-year-old Allexis Thomas, added a personal touch by making flags of the Caribbean islands to decorate the display.

Organised by the church’s Social Committee and Education departments under the oversight of Shepherdess Desiree Donaldson, the event drew steady participation throughout the evening. Guests joined in singing folk songs and national anthems, sharing traditional dishes, and reflecting on the legacy of Black Adventist pioneers.

A Celebration Rooted in Mission

Beyond celebrating culture, organisers emphasised a deeper spiritual purpose. The message of responsibility to continue the pioneers' work of taking the gospel to all the world was central to the evening.

Chloe Bobb, Meadowvale’s Prayer Ministries Leader, described the event as "well- organised, innovative, creative, educational and entertaining," adding that it honoured "the contributions, cultures and resilience of the sometimes-overlooked Black race."

Volunteers from the decorating committee, kitchen staff, and booth teams ensured the event’s success from start to finish.

Meadowvale Seventh-day Adventist Church is located on Montevideo Road in Mississauga, Ontario.
 
Andrea Cato
Meadowvale Seventh-day Adventist Church