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By HOLLINSWORTH AUGUSTE
The Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA) and Rhema Christian Ministries joined forces to host a festive Christmas Day celebration that exemplified unity, compassion and the spirit of giving.
Amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, guests from across the GTA gathered to share in a memorable day of fellowship, food and festivities—perfectly capturing the essence of Christmas.
Rhema is a multi-ethnic, non-denominational organization rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Under the leadership of Senior Pastor Orim Meikle, the ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering spiritual growth, promoting economic empowerment and meeting real-world needs.
In tandem with Pastor Meikle’s guidance, Valentine Akuazaoku, Rhema’s CEO, oversees a strong team dedicated to fulfilling Rhema’s mission of “Changing & Affecting Lives”. Through programs such as the Rhema Food Bank—which provides much-needed assistance to about 500 families weekly—Rhema also undertakes medical and humanitarian missions in places like Afghanistan and Rwanda, underscoring its global reach and impact.
The JCA has served as a vital community hub since 1962, delivering programs, services and advocacy for Jamaican, Caribbean and African Canadian communities. Whether through educational initiatives or cultural celebrations, the JCA remains committed to its mission to improve well-being, foster equity and strengthen community ties.
Under the skillful coordination of Grace Williams—wife of JCA founding President Roy Williams—this year’s Christmas Day event welcomed guests of all ages, from children to seniors.
Audrey Campbell, former JCA president, took on the role of emcee, guiding the day’s program with humour and insight while David Betty, current JCA president, officially welcomed attendees and expressed his gratitude to all volunteers and sponsors who had contributed their time and efforts to make the celebration a success.
Another highlight of the gathering was the presence of Jamaica’s Consul General in Toronto, Kurt Davis, who delivered heartfelt Christmas greetings. Emphasizing that Christmas is about more than festive lights and gifts, Davis reminded attendees of the birth of Jesus as the true reason for the season. He encouraged community members to offer “gifts of love”, such as checking in on neighbours, friends and especially elders or those who may be alone. Following his remarks, Davis introduced his son, James Davis, who performed a moving musical piece while guests sang along filling the hall with warmth, joy and harmony.
During the event, Roy Williams was recognized for his longstanding dedication to the organization and his enduring support for the community. His pioneering work set the foundation upon which the JCA continues to thrive.
Officers from Toronto Police Services 31 Division also joined the festivities, mingling with attendees and underlining their commitment to building trust within the neighbourhoods they serve. They spoke about the importance of nurturing strong community relationships, noting how ongoing collaboration, open dialogue and mutual support between law enforcement and local residents can create safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone. Their presence at the celebration further emphasized a collective goal: working hand-in-hand—across community, faith, and civic institutions—to foster unity and understanding.
By centering the true spirit of Christmas—a spirit of selfless generosity, unity and faith—organizers and attendees alike demonstrated that when communities come together, they can uplift one another in ways that truly make a difference.
With the partnership of the JCA and Rhema, this year’s Christmas celebration proved that shared dedication to service can transform an event into an extraordinary show of community and care.
In the words of Grace Williams, “It’s in working together and supporting each other that we make our community stronger every day.”
