REGINA – At the Shiloh Assembly Church in Regina, the praise and worship portion of the service is always a Sunday morning staple.
But just like the past 20 years, this Sunday was extra special.
“What we do each year when we recognize Black History Month is we have an inter-faith service,” Saskatchewan Jamaican Association (SJA) executive Maxine McKenzie said.
Part of the kickoff to Black History Month meant inviting people from all different faiths to worship together in church, which is said to be a fundamental part of Black history.
“For me, it’s a source of pride.”
“”Going back as far as the slavery days when the slaves sang spirituals, whether it was in celebration or whether it was messages they were giving to each other,” McKenzie-Zox explained.
In Saskatchewan, historically immigration has come from eastern European countries but the immigration of black peoples dates back to the late nineteenth century and continues until this day.
“For me, it’s a source of pride. I can hold my head up and I can say yes, I am part of this community and I’ve contributed to this community,” McKenzie-Zox said.
“Our presence are being shown and we’re here, we’re here to stay. We’re not going anywhere,” SJA president Mavis Ashbourne-Palmer added.
It’s deep rooted passion, just like everything at Shilou. It drives people to be thankful and to be better but it also stems from knowing their history and the struggle and making sure to educate the younger generation.
“It’s all about love. Just love one another, love is the key.”
Originally from Ontario, Dr. Shadd moved to Saskatchewan or what was then known as the Northwest Territories a century ago.
He was a master of all trades, a doctor, teacher and politician. He fought for equality and his message was renewed during service at Shiloh.
“It’s all about love. Just love one another, love is the key. And understanding, understand each other and tolerate each other,” Pastor Zackariah Taylor said.
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