Faith & Culture Update: What You Need to Know About Bill C-9
Summary
Bill C-9, the Combating Hate Act, is currently being reviewed in Parliament. A committee amendment was recently approved to remove the long-standing “good faith religious belief defence,” raising concern among many faith communities about how religious expression may be impacted by this bill.
To help Canadians respond with clarity and kindness, Crossroads encourages viewers to learn more through trusted resources like the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada:
http://theEFC.ca/C-9
More insight will be shared on 100 Huntley Street on Thursday, December 18 with Julia Beazley, Director of Public Policy at the EFC.
Faith & Culture Update: Full Article
Many Canadians are hearing conversations about Bill C-9—the Combating Hate Act—and wondering what it means for people of faith. As a ministry committed to prayer, truth, compassion, and public witness, Crossroads believes it’s important to help viewers understand cultural issues that may affect how we express and live out our faith.
Here’s a simple update to help you stay informed.
What Is Bill C-9?
Bill C-9 was introduced by the federal government earlier this fall in response to the rise in hate-motivated incidents across Canada, including increasing antisemitism and threats against religious minorities.
The bill adds new hate-related offences to the Criminal Code and updates the process around how certain charges can be laid.
On the surface, these changes may sound straightforward. But one key development has sparked important conversation among faith communities.
A Significant Committee Amendment
During the Justice Committee’s review of the bill, members voted on a Bloc amendment to remove the long-standing “good faith religious belief defence.”
This defence is meant to ensure that Canadians who express sincerely held religious beliefs in good faith, respectfully and without malice, are not captured by hate speech laws..
Although rarely used, it serves as an important safeguard for:
- freedom of religion
- freedom of expression
- the ability of minority faith groups to teach and practice their beliefs confidently
Many minority religious groups, including Christian, Muslim, and Sikh leaders have raised questions about how the removal of this defence might affect the public expression of faith in the future—especially as cultural conversations grow more polarized.
Is the Bill Final?
No.
Although the amendment passed at committee, Bill C-9 has not yet:
- returned to the full House of Commons
- passed the Senate
- become law
There is still room for thoughtful engagement and further clarity.
Why This Matters to Crossroads
Crossroads’ mission involves openly proclaiming the hope of Jesus, sharing biblical truth, and encouraging Canadians in their faith every day.
If the legal framework surrounding religious expression becomes unclear or overly broad, it could affect the ability of ministries across the country—including Crossroads—to speak with clarity and confidence.
Our heart is not political—we are committed to being a voice of hope, truth, and unity. But we also believe it’s important to help Canadians understand when cultural or legislative developments may impact the freedom to live and share the Christian faith.
How You Can Respond
We encourage all believers to engage in a way that reflects Christ—with kindness, clarity, and respect.
During this review period, Canadians may share their perspective by:
- Emailing their Member of Parliament
- Calling their local MP office
- Visiting their MP in person during the holiday break or when they are in their constituency offices
If you’d like deeper background, the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada provides a clear, balanced overview:
👉 http://theEFC.ca/C-9
More Insight Coming on December 18
To help bring clarity, Julia Beazley, Director of Public Policy at the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, will join us on 100 Huntley Street on Thursday, December 18.
Julia will walk through what this amendment means, where the bill goes next, and how Canadians of faith can respond wisely in the days ahead.
We invite you to tune in.
Q&A: Quick Answers to Common Questions
Q: Does Crossroads support or oppose Bill C-9?
A: Crossroads is not taking a political or partisan position. Our goal is to help Canadians understand how this amendment could impact the freedom to express sincerely held religious beliefs.
Q: Has the amendment already become law?
A: No. The committee has passed the amendment, but it is still studying the bill. The bill must still go through several more stages before it becomes law.
Q: Why is the “good faith religious belief defence” important?
A: It is an important safeguard to ensure Canadians who express opinions on religious subjects or based on belief in religious texts, sincerely and in good faith, aren’t captured by the wilful promotion of hatred offence.
Q: How does this impact Crossroads’ ministry?
A: Crossroads’ mission involves teaching Scripture, offering prayer, and sharing the hope of Jesus. If the legal framework around religious expression becomes unclear, it could affect ministries across Canada.
Q: What can I do if I’m concerned?
A: Canadians can contact their MP by email, phone, or in person to share their perspective respectfully.
More resources are available at http://theEFC.ca/C-9.
A Final Encouragement
In moments like this, it’s easy to feel anxious or uncertain. But Scripture reminds us:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” —2 Timothy 1:7
Crossroads remains committed to praying for our leaders, supporting vulnerable communities, and sharing the hope of Jesus across Canada.
Have Questions or Need Prayer?
We know these issues can feel complex and sometimes overwhelming. If you have questions, concerns, or would like someone to pray with you, we are here for you.
📞 Call our 24/7 Prayer Line: 1-866-273-4444
💬 Send us a prayer request: crossroads.ca/247prayer
📧 Contact Crossroads: [email protected]
Our team would be honoured to connect with you.
