Members, families, friends and community guests gathered at Downsview Seventh-day Adventist Church in Toronto for “Encounter 2025: A Journey Through the Life of Jesus,” a spiritually enriching evangelistic series led by Pastors Wallin O’Connor and Michelle Clarke.
Centred on the Gospel of John, the series explored Christ as a healer and the hope of eternal life. Services were held each Sabbath, Sunday, Wednesday and Friday, featuring praise, in-depth biblical teaching, and calls to a personal encounter with Jesus through His Word and presence.
Each morning from 5:30 to 6:30 a.m., participants joined in prayer devotionals, seeking spiritual renewal. Thursdays were set aside for fasting and focused intercession as the congregation pursued God’s guidance and anointing.
During an anointing service on Wednesday evening, worshippers came forward to be anointed with oil and prayed over by the pastors and elders. The atmosphere was filled with reverence, tears and hearts stirred by the Holy Spirit as he moved throughout the sanctuary.
On Good Friday, the congregation participated in communion. The service was themed “Jesus Prayed for Us,” based on John 17:20-26. It began with a message in the sanctuary before transitioning to the lower level, where the space was transformed to reflect the Upper Room in the Book of Acts. Tables arranged in the shape of a cross were adorned with bread, grape juice, herbs, grapes and candles—symbolizing the solemnity and humility of Christ’s final moments with His disciples. The foot-washing ceremony and scripture readings reminded all of Christ’s love and sacrifice, drawing attendees into a tangible experience of the Last Supper.
The series culminated on Sabbath, April 19, with the baptism of 13 individuals and one profession of faith. The congregation rejoiced, celebrating new life in Christ.
Encounter 2025 concluded with a prayer breakfast at the church on Sunday, April 20, where members shared scripture, testimonies, and fellowship and gave thanks for the spiritual victories of the series.
More than a series of meetings, Encounter 2025was a deep and personal engagement with the living Christ. From the anointing to the communion table, each service reminded participants of the power of the cross and the hope of the resurrection. As the church moves forward, members are changed, empowered, and committed to sharing Christ’s message with renewed joy and purpose.
Downsview Seventh-day Adventist Church
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