CULTURAL LANGUAGE GROUPS / NEWCOMERS TO CANADA

In 2016, Canada had a foreign-born population of about 7.5 million people, representing 21.3% of our population … the highest proportion among all G8 countries. What does this mean? The mission field has moved in next door! 

Asia, including the Middle East, was Canada’s largest source of immigrants during the past five years. Immigration from Africa, Caribbean, Central and South America also increased slightly. And the vast majority of the foreign-born population lived in four provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec. Most live in the nation’s largest urban centres. What does this mean? Our urban centres are huge mission fields! 

In 2011 people who come from the Muslim faith represented 3.2% of the nation’s total population. Hindus represented 1.5%, Sikhs 1.4%, Buddhists 1.1% and Jewish 1.0%. What does this mean? To fulfill Jesus’ heart and command, we need to love and learn about  - and share Jesus with - our neighbours, now more than ever before. You don’t have to move to another country to be a missionary. The mission field is right outside your front doorstep.

Muslims, more than any other non-Christian religious group, are moving to Canada. Our Muslim population will more than double by the year 2030! Are you ready to reach out in genuine love and share Jesus effectively with them? Muslims are often more open to the gospel within the first 90 days of their arrival in Canada. Welcoming the stranger in your midst has never been a more Biblical, timely, and effective means of being Jesus’ witnesses to all nations than now!

Muslims are people with a heart for God, prayer, family and community. Engage in meaningful conversation with neighbours or those who are newcomers to Canada. Get involved in community events together. Have family interaction so you can see their faith and they can see yours. Invite them into your life, sharing your heart for God and even stories of how you have seen God at work and in answering your prayers. These opportunities can be powerful ways of sharing life and the good news of Jesus. Consider celebrating Canada Day or another holiday time by inviting your Muslim neighbours into your life, your home and your celebrations! 

@Mission_Canada 
#TransformingCanadaTogether