(ZENIT News / Canada, 11.07.2024).- Canadian Christian leaders, including Archbishop J. Michael Miller, are joining a nationwide declaration condemning antisemitism, underscoring solidarity with Jewish communities facing escalating threats. The Canadian Christian Declaration on Antisemitism, initiated by Deacon Andrew Bennett—a former ambassador for Canada’s religious freedom—urges Christians to stand resolutely with their Jewish neighbors.
Launched on September 23, the declaration has quickly gained traction, amassing signatures from 720 Christian leaders across Canada, tripling Bennett’s initial goal of 250. Bennett celebrated the unexpected response, writing, «I had hoped for 250 signatures… In the end, 720 of you signed and sent a powerful message of solidarity to our Jewish neighbors.»
The declaration’s message is unmistakable: “We will not abandon you.” It includes a vow to actively support the Jewish community and oppose antisemitism, with Bennett affirming, “We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you in defense of human dignity, justice, and freedom—cherished Canadian values.”
Broad Christian Support Amid Concerns for Canada’s Jewish Population
The initiative has drawn wide support, spanning diverse denominations and regions, including leaders such as Archbishop Marcel Damphousse of Ottawa-Cornwall and Bishop Scott McCaig of Canada’s Military Ordinariate. Leaders from the Catholic, Anglican, United, Reformed, and Orthodox churches have lent their voices, creating a unique alliance against what many fear is a deepening crisis of antisemitism in Canada.
The move comes as reports of antisemitism in Canada intensify, especially following the October 7 attacks in Israel. Bennett noted a recent conversation with Rabbi Idan Sher, who expressed concerns that the hostile environment might lead Canadian Jews to reconsider their place in the country. “When a respected Canadian rabbi starts to question, ‘How much longer can we stay here?’ that’s a real wake-up call,” Bennett stated. “This is not the Canada I know. Jews shouldn’t feel that way in this country.”
A Call for Stronger Christian Voices and Actions
Bennett expressed disappointment over what he felt was an insufficient response from some Christian leaders, specifically the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), whose response to the October 7 events was seen by some as too restrained. The reaction has led to a pause in dialogue between the CCCB and the Canadian Rabbinic Caucus.
Notably, Bennett clarified that the declaration is rooted in theological commitment rather than political alignment in the Middle East. He emphasized that Canadian Christians must stand in support of their Jewish neighbors as part of a broader ethical obligation, irrespective of geopolitical complexities.
Beyond Words: Building Bridges through Action
The declaration is just the first step in a three-part plan aimed at fostering enduring Christian-Jewish relations. Next, Bennett plans a summit in Toronto, bringing together 50 Christian and 50 Jewish leaders to strengthen bonds through discussion and shared purpose. This will be followed by a year-long initiative, with churches and synagogues partnering in joint events and meaningful dialogues.
“As Christians, we will not simply speak; we will act peacefully alongside you, our Jewish friends, in the interest of justice and goodwill,” Bennett assured.
This public commitment, detailed on christiandeclaration.ca, is a clear stand against hatred and an affirmation of Canada’s multicultural values, striving to ensure that antisemitism has no place in Canadian society.
Thank you for reading our content. If you would like to receive ZENIT’s daily e-mail news, you can subscribe for free through this link.
