Baptist church brings neighbours together

The mission of the organizers of The Big Event is to bring people together.
The fun is the lure.
Hosted by the Mississauga City Baptist Church, 3434 Cawthra Rd., the event, which takes place this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. features Comedy in Motion by Bob Cates, who is famous for his interactive performances that include juggling and riding a unicycle. His show is slated for 1-2 p.m. Cates is famous for his interactive performances that include juggling and riding a unicycle.
"It's just a way of bringing neighbours and people together and provide some fun," said coordinator Donna Fritze. "Every community is invited and it's free. It will be a fun day with the comedy show and barbecue. Kids will have bouncy (inflatables)."
Last year, some 800 people attended the event.
Although there's no charge, people are invited to bring a non-perishable food item for the church's food drive.
"Our greatest need is baby formula, diapers, kids' lunches and anything useful for needy people," said Lynne Culham, coordinator of the food drive.
Pastor Bernard Stephenson said the goal of the event is for people to meet people and make lasting friendships.
"Bob Cates is a Christian and has a desire to share with people his experience of what he has gained with the help of God," he said.
Two other churches — Cornerstone Asian Church and Slavic Church of Evangelical Faith — also hold their services at Mississauga City Baptist Church, which prides itself on having more than 40 countries represented in its congregation.
Pastor Peter Paul, of Cornerstone Asian Church, said that his church serves in four different Asian languages.
"We are here to serve those who don't understand English. We pray for them, provide counseling, and offer any help they might need. I feel privileged to be a part of the Big Event," he said.
For more information on the event, call 905-275-2189.