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Canadian Postage Stamp to Commemorate GC Session 2000

Canada Post has announced that its year 2000 stamp program will include a special commemorative stamp featuring the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which will coincide with the opening of the General Conference Session in Toronto on June 29. Plans are already underway for a stamp unveiling ceremony that will take place during the Session's opening events. The special stamp will be the first honoring the Adventist Church to be issued in North America.

"What an exciting development," says Canadian Gerry Karst, assistant to Church president Dr. Jan Paulsen. "Adventists in Canada and around the world will be proud of this public recognition by the Canadian postal service."

The idea for an Adventist World Session 2000 stamp was first conceived in 1997 by Barry Bussey, secretary of the Ontario Conference. A long-time stamp collector, Bussey was aware that Canada Post accepted ideas for stamp designs from the public. His suggestion for a stamp to commemorate the GC Session received support from many in the community.

Ivan Grose, Member of Parliament for Oshawa, wrote to Canada Post in favor of the idea. He noted two Adventist institutions in his district, saying, "I am very familiar with [the Church's] good works, not only locally, but nationally and internationally as well. I can think of no more worthwhile subject for a special commemorative stamp."

Bussey believes that the stamp issue is an exciting way to highlight the Adventist Church in Canada. "This is an opportunity to get more involved in the community and to let Canadian society know we're here," says Bussey. "I am so pleased that I could have a small part in helping Canada know more about the Adventist Church."

The design of the 46-cent, first-class stamp, which will not be disclosed until its release, is based on material and information provided to Canada Post by Bussey and his Canadian team. Ray Dabrowski, communication director for the World Church, also supported the project and assisted with information. "We are all anxious to see the stamp, but, like everyone else, we will wait until the release sometime in the next few months," says Dabrowski.

After its release, just prior to the Session, the stamp can be purchased by phoning (800) 565-4362 (in North America) or (902) 863-6550 (internationally). [Bettina Krause]