Pastor Eddie Jjumba Celebrated at Milliken Wesleyan Methodist Church’s International Fellowship

The Milliken Wesleyan Methodist Church in Markham, ON, came alive on Sunday, September 22, 2024, as it hosted the much-anticipated International Fellowship Sunday under the theme “Many Nations, One People in Christ.” The event, which brought together believers from diverse cultural backgrounds, featured the inspiring gospel music of Minister Judith Babirye and was hosted by Rev. Eddie Jjumba, the church’s senior pastor.

This special service was more than a typical Sunday gathering. It became a place of prayer and transforming hope, where unity in Christ was celebrated in a grand display of cultural diversity. The congregation gathered at 3 Clayton Drive, Markham, and was treated to a transformative worship experience led by Judith Babirye, a renowned Ugandan gospel singer whose soul-stirring music has touched millions worldwide.

Pastor Eddie Jjumba, a beloved figure within the Christian community, was celebrated for his passionate leadership and dedication to fostering unity among believers. His role in hosting this event aligned with his vision of creating a spiritually uplifting and welcoming environment for all who come to worship.

“This fellowship is a true reflection of the body of Christ, where many nations come together as one people. It’s a celebration of faith that transcends cultural differences,” Jjumba said during the service. He extended his invitation to the community, emphasizing the importance of coming together in faith, regardless of background or nationality.

The theme of the event, “Many Nations, One People in Christ,” underscored the unity found in faith, even among people from different cultural and national backgrounds. In keeping with this theme, attendees were encouraged to wear traditional or cultural attire, showcasing the beautiful diversity of the congregation. The day’s events served as a vivid reminder of the global family of believers bound by a common faith in Christ.

In his reflections, Pastor Eddie Jjumba expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming attendance and participation. “I am thrilled to be a part of what God is doing in and through Milliken Church, one of the most ethnically diverse churches in the Greater Toronto Area,” he shared. “Today has given us a glimpse of how heaven will be—so many nations and languages, yet all one in Christ.”

Jjumba also emphasized his commitment to the current vision of the church: “To be a Christ-centered church, growing outward and growing younger.” He encouraged all believers to be active in promoting unity, stating, “In the midst of all the divisions in our global village, I beseech all people to actively be part of the solution. We do better together. Always ask yourself the question: Am I planting seeds of unity or seeds of discord?”

The celebration also included a multicultural feast, where attendees enjoyed food from all 28 nations represented in the church’s diverse congregation. The rich variety of dishes symbolized the unity and fellowship shared by the community. Countries represented at Milliken Church include:

1. Antigua & Barbuda
2. Barbados
3. Belize
4. Canada
5. Dominica
6. Ecuador
7. Ghana
8. Germany
9. Grenada
10. Guyana
11. India
12. Ireland
13. Jamaica
14. Kenya
15. Democratic Republic of Congo
16. Montserrat
17. Sri Lanka
18. China
19. Hong Kong
20. St. Kitts & Nevis
21. St. Vincent
22. Trinidad & Tobago
23. USA
24. Uganda
25. Nigeria
26. Vietnam
27. Philippines
28. Korea

The celebration of cultural diversity through food was a fitting end to the day’s events, reflecting the church’s commitment to fostering fellowship and inclusivity within its community.

Pastor Eddie Jjumba, a fully ordained minister under the Central Canada District of the Wesleyan Church, also serves as a Network Leader of the Southern Ontario Network, a position he co-leads with Rev. Sule Prince, the Senior Pastor of Oakwood Wesleyan Church in Toronto. His leadership in these roles continues to uplift and inspire countless believers across Ontario.

The International Fellowship Sunday was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. It highlighted the power of unity in diversity, showing that no matter where people come from, they can stand together as one in Christ.