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On March 25th, after months of committee proceedings and deliberations in the House of Commons, Canada's governing Liberal Party has forced an end to the debate – resulting in the passage of the controversial Bill C-9. The legislation has now moved to the Senate for further consideration.
The proposed bill seeks to amend the Canadian Criminal Code in areas related to propaganda and hate speech. Many religious groups have raised concerns about the removal of a clause that previously provided protection for individuals who – in good faith – expressed opinions based on religious texts.
The bill has resulted in wide-spread public reactions, with many critics claiming that the legislation "criminalizes the reading of Scripture." However, Ray Pennings from the Christian think-tank organization, Cardus, describes this as an "inaccurate description." While acknowledging the flaws in the legislation, he points to a deeper and broader issue: a growing expectation that faith should be kept separate from public life.
A similar view forms the basis for Quebec's Bill 21 on state secularism, which is presently being challenged before the Supreme Court of Canada. However, rather than treating faith as a private matter that must be excluded from public life, Ray Pennings argues that "at its core, religious freedom is about identity and authenticity: the freedom to live in accordance with who we truly are." From this perspective, faith naturally and necessarily informs public engagement. For an in-depth and challenging discussion on these issues, visit this page.
- Pray for Canada's senators as they review Bill C-9 and seriously consider the expressed concerns and implications of the proposed legislation.
- In a spirit of humility, may these senators exercise wisdom and discernment, realizing that implementing this new legislation can consequently affect religious freedoms across the country.
- Also prayerfully uphold the Supreme Court justices as they carefully weigh the arguments relating to Quebec's Bill 21, recognizing the importance of safeguarding the nation's founding principles of faith among today's secular society.
- Ask the Lord to guide these judicial officials by heightening their awareness of His truth and the need to deeply respect freedom of conscience and belief.
- As Canadians, may we not take our freedoms for granted, but rather aim to steward them wisely – living out our faith with grace, courage and a heart to serve God – while diligently interceding for the protection of this great nation.
