Jamaica’s Consul General to Toronto, Kurt Davis, was among the distinguished attendees at the 54th Annual Easter Convention hosted by the West Toronto Church of God in North York, which culminated on Easter Sunday. The event brought together a packed congregation for a three-day celebration centered on faith, fellowship, and community support.
The convention drew clergy, community leaders, and supporters from across the region and beyond. Joining Lead and District Pastor Rev. Wayne Vernon and First Lady Yvonne Vernon were Dr. Carlos Moran, Director of Hispanic Ministries for the Church of God, and his wife Persida Moran. Also in attendance was Halsey Peat, Lead Pastor of Kanisha Fellowship, along with representatives from TD Bank — Carol Henry and Benjamin Vo — who were recognized for their contributions to the church’s community outreach efforts.
In his remarks, Davis expressed heartfelt gratitude to the church and its members for their continued support of Jamaica, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. He emphasized that assistance provided to affected communities and local churches had made a meaningful and lasting impact.
“The support has made a significant difference in the lives of our Jamaican brothers and sisters,” Davis said, underscoring the importance of Diaspora engagement during times of crisis.
Also participating in the convention was Rev. Yonique Buchanan of the Sherwood Content New Testament Church of God in Trelawny, Jamaica. Buchanan joined fellow clergy and worshippers in what organizers described as a spiritually uplifting gathering.
A highlight of the event was the Parade of Nations, which opened the day’s service. Congregants proudly displayed flags representing their homelands, including the United States, Canada, countries across the Caribbean, Latin America, the United Kingdom, and Africa — reflecting the diversity and unity of the congregation.
Organizers noted that the annual Easter Convention continues to serve as an important platform for strengthening ties between immigrant communities in Canada and their countries of origin. The gathering also reinforced themes of resilience, unity, and hope, while celebrating the role of faith-based organizations in supporting communities both locally and abroad.
Now in its 54th year, the convention remains a cornerstone event for the West Toronto Church of God, drawing participants from across the Diaspora and reinforcing longstanding bonds between Canada and the Caribbean.
