Across our nation, a quiet but serious battle is unfolding—one that could reshape the spiritual landscape of Canada. Recent developments threaten not just the structure of churches, but the very freedom to express faith publicly through prayer, worship, and charitable service. While some may think this is only a “church issue,” it is, in fact, a community issue—one that affects believers and non-believers alike.
For generations, the church has stood as a pillar of love, compassion, and community. It is the place where burdens are lifted, families are strengthened, and hope is restored. The church feeds the hungry, shelters the hurting, counsels the broken, and reminds us that life has meaning beyond material success. Many of our local churches operate food banks, support new immigrants, and care for the elderly—all without discrimination. These are not just “religious activities.” They are acts of charity, the very essence of love in action.
The apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13 that without love, even our greatest works mean nothing. And it is precisely this divine love—agape, unconditional, enduring—that fuels the church’s mission. So when the government begins to question whether the church deserves charitable recognition or tax exemption, we must ask: what is charity, if not love expressed through service? The church embodies the highest form of charity because God Himself is love (1 John 4:8), and we, His people, are called to reflect that love in every community we touch.
But today, the voice of faith is being tested. The call to prayer, to worship, and to speak truth with boldness is under scrutiny. Yet silence is not an option. Just as Mordecai told Esther, “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone will escape… And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:13–14). This is our time—to stand, to speak, and to pray.
The church is more than an institution. She is the Bride of Christ, loved and defended by her Bridegroom. As Isaiah 54:5 declares, “Your Maker is your husband—the Lord Almighty is His name; the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer.” The same God who formed the heavens and the earth will defend His church. The government may carry authority, but “the government is upon His shoulders” (Isaiah 9:6).
Whether you call yourself Christian or not, understand this: when laws begin to silence prayer, the next silence may be your own. If those who intercede for the people are quieted, who will cry out when injustice rises? Who will stand in the gap when moral and spiritual darkness deepens?
Now is not the time to retreat. It is the time to pray, to speak, and to stand together—with faith, with respect, and with courage. In situations like these, silence becomes surrender. The Church must rise—not in anger, but in love, truth, and unwavering conviction that “the earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1).
Let us remember: our silence today could be tomorrow’s loss of freedom. But our faith-filled voice, lifted in unity, can still change the course of action. Get informed and get involved.
The church is part of our community. Stand with us and let’s stand together.
