By Norwood Church
On Sunday, August 24th, the Norwood SDA Church held its annual Community Family Fun Day. The weather forecast during the week for that Sunday was showing rain and thunderstorm. However, the believers prayed and asked God for fine weather so that we can carry out the planned activity. Early that Sunday morning the brethren pitched six 12 x 12 tents of various colours. The front lawn of the church which was prepared during the week was beautifully decorated. We searched our phones constantly to see if the weather networks’ forecast had changed. No, it didn’t.
With a bit of uncertainty, we prepared the health booth and raised the NEWSTART health banners obtained from the Quebec Conference. At the same time, we prepared the reception booth, the Personal Ministries booth displaying books for distribution, the Community Services booth with grocery for free distribution, the legal counsel booth to address immigration and other issues, and the refreshment booth to provide water, healthy snacks and vegetarian meals. We also had a Pathfinder and Adventurer booth for craft and face painting. The inflatable games for children were erected in the backyard of the church, and the Montreal Fire Department arrived with their truck and display gear to spend the day with us and share invaluable information with demonstration on how to prevent fires at home. A prayer booth was also available in the church’s prayer room.
Amazingly, the sky over the area where the church is located remained blue with an occasional cirrus cloud while the rest of St. Laurent was experiencing rain and thunderstorm. The service men of the Fire Department mentioned that when they saw the forecast early that morning, they thought the event would be cancelled. One of them told one member as he showed her his phone, “look it is raining in St. Laurent but not where we are. God is with you people.” They were impressed that we were giving back to the community and remarked that we can ask for them, “the Hollywood Crew” to come back next year.
We were happy to interact and share with the many community members who came out to share the day with us. Some stayed to the very end. They were blessed and some were shocked when they heard that everything was for free. Amazingly, the raindrops began as we were doing the closing exercises.
We thank the Montreal Fire Department, our medical and legal professionals, and all other volunteers who contributed to the success of the day’s event. Moreover, we give praise and thanks to God for answered prayers and for the opportunity He provided for us to render service to the community.
