The state of interfaith relations in Canada has never been worse, experts say, with two traumas playing out: ‘events there and events here’

Author Archives: John Longhurst
John Longhurst is a freelance religion reporter and columnist for the Winnipeg Free Press. He has been involved in journalism and communications for over 40 years, including as president of Canadian Church Press. In 2021, he received the Manitoba Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Inter-Religious Understanding for his work at the Free Press.
Controversial military directive does not ban prayer, as critics charge
A controversial new directive seeks to ensure all Canadians feel included in military ceremonies, no matter their spiritual beliefs. But it does not ban prayer
Unique law makes it easier to bring hate speech claims
Hate speech provision in Manitoba’s Defamation Act could complement hate speech laws in the Criminal Code and human rights legislation
Winnipeg mayor forms multi-faith circle to identify issues, solutions
In what may be a first in Canada, Winnipeg’s mayor has created a multi-faith circle to stay abreast of concerns in city’s faith and cultural communities
The major economic impact of Canada’s places of worship
Places of worship generate an estimated $18 billion of economic value for Canada each year, according to a “halo effect” study
New study shows religious women have – and desire – more kids
Religious women indicated they were less worried about life than non-religious women—which may make them more willing to have children
Centre launches campaign to make Canada more secular
The Centre for Inquiry Canada is advocating for churches to lose their tax breaks. Others say religion is a net benefit to Canada.