Today (Nov. 11) I realized that our country has hit a turning point that is leading us away from our roots and the foundation that was laid for us. I write this with the knowledge that it will offend many, but that is not my intention. I hope my words will be considered and reflected upon before making any counterattacks.
Canada was founded on Judeo-Christian laws. These laws and principles allowed our country to flourish and become the nation of greatness we are recognized as today. I appreciate the diversity in our community but I was extremely upset that the prayer during the Remembrance Day Ceremony was spoken almost entirely in Punjabi.
A ceremony to commemorate the lives of those that fought for us (yes, I recognize there were many religions and cultures represented in the wars Canada has fought) should be inclusive and representative of our nation and the principles that the soldiers who lost their lives fought for. That means, a prayer that we can all understand, spoken in English (an official language of Canada).
Today was a definite sign that this country is not what it was. Today was a day to remember those who fought for the liberties we all enjoy and the sacrifices that were made for our freedom. So enjoying all these freedoms and seeing our veterans who are left who suffered more than many of us will ever imagine, I come to ask myself what were they fighting for?
If it’s political correctness, then mission success, job well done. Before I go on I want to make clear that I am not seeking for a Christendom nation for I know that will never take place, but to raise awareness in people’s minds. Because I could not understand the prayer I do not know what was said.But I can assume, based on previous years and other speeches, it was not a prayer to God (the Christian god, the one who Canada was founded upon).
I feel that if we are going to have multi-faith prayers it is necessary to recognize all faiths. For example, if we are to include new religious members into a ceremony, I think it’s only fitting to ask or have any religious congregations speak on the behalf of “god” for a prayer. Or simply don’t mention any prayer which I am sure the atheists would agree there’s no need for any of it.
It is time we stopped pretending that our city serves a god in where the symbols of the cross can be in place but the name of Jesus Christ is removed. It would only be fair for all to have their input or again have nothing at all.
Just by guessing, I would say at least 65 per cent of men who fought in the world wars died in the name of Jesus Christ. So if we’re going to honour the fallen, maybe we need to tiptoe around their names too.
Shawn Wiebe
