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'Winnipeg needs Jesus': Free Christian conference brings world-renowned worship leader to city
Internationally renowned worship leader Bob Fitts, a man who found faith during the Jesus Movement in the 1970s, is bringing his music ministry to Winnipeg. The Impact Conference 2025 will feature Fitts, along with Pastor Junie Josue, Bishop Mike Efezino, Tosin Alao, Nicolette Kiige, Bunmi Praise, and Emmanuel Briggs. Pastor Toyin and Deborah Lawani will host the event from Impact Assembly. "We are trusting God that through Impact Conference, we will have people turn to Jesus," says Pastor Toyin Lawani. "It's meant to be a melting pot of different people from different walks of life, altogether, worshiping the Lord and also hearing from him." Fitts has been leading worship for several decades in the U.S.A. This is his first time coming to Winnipeg. "My wife and I both flew in yesterday," says Fitts. "I was originally born in Texas, lived in California where Kathy and I met, and have lived in Hawaii for 45 years now." Over the years, Fitts has seen how God has worked in others' hearts. "Kathy and I met while we were in high school. We had an experience with the Lord where our lives were radically changed. Both of us were just so drawn to the Lord. Here's a good word for people who are coming to this conference who are not married. I'll tell you what, fall in love with Jesus because you'll find that God is romantic. God is love and He will bring you to your mate. That's what happened to Kathy and I." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Impact Assembly (@impactassembly) Fitts is currently writing a book called Take My Healing to the Nations, filled with stories of God's faithfulness throughout the years. "There's nothing like listening to thousands of people worshipping Jesus. These days, we're seeing it happen all over the world again, a fresh renewal of worship. Amazing days we're living in." The Impact Conference 2025 kicks off with the Ministers Conference on September 26 at 6 p.m. at 333 Garry Street in Winnipeg. "This is our first Impact Conference and we're trusting God that this will be an annual event," says Lawani. "Winnipeg needs Jesus in a big way." On September 27, at 5 p.m., there will be worship from Fitts and a message shared at the RBC Convention Centre, 375 York Avenue. The conference wraps up on Sunday morning at 10 a.m. with a Sunday morning service at 333 Garry Street. While it is a free event, Lawani is asking participants to register here.