Source: www.MNNonline.org
Date: June 3, 2026
Canada (MNN) — Concern over Bill C-9 in Canada has mobilized thousands of people.
In previous stories, we’ve covered Bill C-9, its potential risks, ways Christians can respond prayerfully, and its significance in a broader global context, including developments in Finland. Since then, Canadians across the country have used legal means to voice concerns and seek changes to the bill.
Floyd Brobbel with Voice of the Martyrs Canada says the Senate is now reviewing the bill for a third time. In the meantime, he says:
“There’s been an unprecedented number of calls by Christians, and I think other groups as well, to local MPs expressing concern over the bill and its vague definition of hatred.”
Canada is a home to many nations and religious groups; Canada Day celebrations (photo courtesy of Andy Holmes via Unsplash)
Brobbel says more than 100,000 people have contacted lawmakers about the bill. Rallies have also been held in Ottawa, and legal organizations have submitted recommendations on the bill.
“One of the biggest points that a lot of the legal groups are trying to make is that we need to recognize there are certain limits to religious freedom, and recognize what those limits are,” says Brobbel.
The challenge is distinguishing between expressing religious beliefs and promoting harm. A believer who warns about abortion based on Scripture should not face restrictions. Calling for violence in the name of religious texts, however, is different.
Many agree speech that incites violence should be restricted. Brobbel adds, “There needs to be the will of those who enact the laws to actively pursue groups whose religious expression crosses the line by promoting hatred, violence, and intimidation of others.”
However, supporters of religious freedom draw a clear line: expressing a belief based on Scripture is not the same as promoting hatred. They say the proposed changes in Bill C-9 would remove the “good faith” religious defense, weakening safeguards for religious freedom.
“[It] is really opening the door to future religious freedom restrictions,” says Brobbel.
So when it comes to public statements, many are urging the Senate to keep that distinction in mind. Brobbel urges:
“Pray that they would listen to the concerns of the people and either reinstate the good-faith religious defense or provide clear definitions of what constitutes hatred.”
Visit Voice of the Martyrs Canada to learn about persecuted Christians around the world and discover ways you can pray, engage, and help.
Header photo: Canadian Senate Building (photo courtesy of John Smith via Unsplash