As with any city, the more of Toronto you see the less you’re able to sum it up into easy quips and quick stats. But here are two: It’s where a fifth of the nation’s population lives and where you find its greatest diversity.

Toronto is among the most ethnically diverse cities on earth, topping Miami, Los Angeles and New York City. The population is nearly 6.5 million, and of that number, about 2.3 million are foreign-born. Toronto is an exceedingly drivable city, and from the suburbs to the urban core, it provides an international immersion without the loss of comfortable western amenities.

Although about 33 percent of Torontonians claim Christianity as their religion, the evangelical presence in the area is a little better than 3 percent. There is only one Canadian National Baptist church for every 106,808 people.

Add to this an increasing immigrant population bringing growth in Buddhism, Islam, Sikhism and other world religions. Toronto has one of the world’s highest Jewish populations as well.

About 410,000 Torontonians speak a Chinese language such as Mandarin or Cantonese. More than 100,000 speak Filipino; 56,000 speak Arabic. In total, more than 2 million Torontonians report that they primarily speak a language other than the official languages of English and French.

Statistics are like skylines. They give you a glimpse of a city that only grows more diverse and complex with each community you visit, each home in which you eat and each ministry opportunity that brings you face-to-face with a city full of stories and needs.

From planting a church to partnering with those already on mission in Toronto, you and your church can make a difference; connect with us to learn how.