We praise our Lord that SMSV Church and Cultural Centre has been designated as a Tourist Attraction in Ontario on April 27, 2019. Hon. Michael Tibollo, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, announced in his speech: “This beautiful, award-winning landmark, is a unique cultural centre for Markham and a testament to the strength and vitality of Ontario’s Coptic Christians”. Furthermore, Mayor Frank Scarpitti said: “Tonight, this church gets the recognition that it deserves; and it does deserve to be on the major attraction list for Ontario. This is definitely a reason for celebration and the world will come here to see this wonderful place in our community and in our province”. God has blessed us with this opportunity to have our doors open to the entire community.
The greatest gift we have is not just the building, but our amazing, God-loving, spiritual, and caring congregation. May we continue to care for one another and open our doors and hearts to others, welcoming each person’s uniqueness and diversity. Here are a few thoughts on how to carry on our great witness and testimony:
- Maintaining our vision of inclusion, diversity, and multiculturalism as a Christ-centered congregation.
- Continuing to grow in our faith and commitment to our Church.
- Maintaining the cleanliness of our church building as it is our window into the greater Community.
- Inviting friends to the church to share our faith and heritage.
- Writing a review on the church Google or Facebook accounts at the following links:
Facebook Review: https://www.facebook.com/pg/smsvchurch/reviews/?ref=page_internal
Here is a link to the announcement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2cwqazY8pI
As well, here is the link to the church’s listing on Ontario’s official tourism website: https://www.ontariotravel.net/en/listing/St-Maurice–St-Verena-Coptic-Orthodox-Church/203159 May our Lord continue to bless every person who is making a difference in expanding the kingdom.