President Raugust has been tracking the concerns of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) regarding Bill C-51. The specific concern of the EFC is with Clause 14 of Bill C-51, which removes the offences of interfering with clergy in the execution of their official duties and distributing religious worship meetings. Section 176 (1) of the Criminal Code, as it is currently written, protects the ability of clergy to lead, and individuals to participate in religious services or gatherings without interference or disruption. The EFC is particularly concerned that proposed changes to section 176 will reduce protection for worshippers and places of worship at a time when hate crimes against religious communities in Canada are on the rise.

Bill C-51 will be reviewed by the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights in the fall of this year when Parliament resumes sitting. The EFC is consulting with interfaith partners on Bill C-51, as it will have implications for all faith communities. The EFC will raise these concerns with the Minister of Justice, and with the Justice Committee and MPs this fall. The EFC is also preparing resources to help Canadians express their concerns over this section of Bill C-51 to their MPs.

President Raugust has expressed commitment to creating an EMCC “sons of Issachar group” who will engage with issues of spiritual and social impact. This group will function as a discerning community that will produce a helpful tool for Pastors and individuals to use. The tool will consist of four parts – 1.) The Problem Defined; 2.) The Cultural Context; 3.) The Biblical Perspective; and 4.) Social Action Jesus Way (a menu of ways to engage with the issue).

The first issue the Issachar Group will tackle is Bill C-51! For more information go to the EFC website.

(Credit to EFC website for information used in this News Release.)