Canadian society is experiencing an escalation in intolerance towards Muslims, most recently focusing on Muslim women and religious clothing.
Jesus said, “In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matt. 7:12 NRSV)
As Christians we have been called to love our neighbour as ourselves. Our biblical tradition has also always called us to take particular care of the most vulnerable in our society.
We are called to resist any attempt to create divisions between neighbours—and we are all neighbours.
Loving our neighbour means speaking and acting for greater realization of the fundamental freedom of conscience and religion—for the sake of the common good and an engaged citizenship.
We call all appropriate institutions to these essential elements of our life together, and we will continue to commit ourselves to that same love of neighbour.
There is no need to take sides on the merits of any particular symbol. Rather, there is a need to care for sisters and brothers.
The Canadian Council of Churches is the broadest and most inclusive ecumenical body in the world, now representing 25 denominations of Anglican; Evangelical; Free Church; Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox; Protestant; and Catholic traditions. Together we represent more than 85% of the Christians in Canada. The Canadian Council of Churches was founded in 1944.
Statements from CCC members:
United Church of Canada – Moderator Message: The Question of the Niqab