This coming Thursday (Nov. 30) and Friday (Dec. 1), the Supreme Court of Canada will hear arguments related to Trinity Western University’s plan to open a law school. If you have followed the story, you know that TWU’s proposed law school has been challenged by several provincial Law Societies (click here for a summary and timeline of events).
Initially, opposition to TWU’s proposed law school focused on the school’s community covenant which includes a commitment to reserve sexual intimacy to marriage of one man and one woman (Heritage College and Seminary’s community covenant does the same). However, the opposition from the Law Society in Ontario has now broadened to reject TWU’s “distinctly Christian” environment and confessional allegiance to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
Recently, I was reading Luke’s gospel where Jesus warns his followers to prepare for stiff opposition: “you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake. This will be your opportunity to bear witness” (Luke 21:13-14). I couldn’t help but think of those who will give testimony before Canada’s highest court this coming week.
Today, November 26th, has been set aside as a National Day of Prayer for Religious Freedom in Canada. I would ask you to join with many other Christians to pray for the outcome of this important case. The ramifications for religious freedom in Canada are far-reaching, not just for TWU but for other Christian schools and religious institutions across our land.
The lyrics of our national anthem contain a prayer: “God keep our land, glorious and free.” Let’s stand on guard for Canada by fervently praying that He would grant continued freedom for Christians to live out our faith in Christ as we stay faithful to Him.
Rick and Linda Reed 