Canadian charities mobilize food, shelter and medical support as millions face displacement, hunger and insecurity across the region
Author Archives: John Longhurst
John Longhurst is a freelance religion and development aid 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. In 2024, he was named a member of the Order of Canada.
Posted inDevelopment Aid
Security at what cost? Critics challenge Canada’s defence push
Peace advocates warn Canada is rushing into a military buildup without a real debate about the merits — and trade-offs
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Faith, family, freedom — and independence? Religion enters Alberta’s secession push
Some pastors say Alberta independence aligns with biblical principles of liberty and justice, while others strongly disagree
Posted inPolitics & Policy
‘Preparation reduces risk’: The case for deterrence and national service
Thomas Homer-Dixon, an expert on global security threats, shares why Canada should be preparing for war if it values peace
Posted inCommunity
Declaration calls for converting 20% of churches to housing
Religious organizations are the second largest holders of land in Canada. A new declaration says they can help solve Canada’s housing crisis
Posted inDevelopment Aid
Aid leaders voice alarm at Ottawa’s aid priorities
Linking aid assistance to Canada’s trade goals reduces aid effectiveness and increases costs, sources say
Posted inReligion
The historical roots of Valentine’s Day
From ancient Rome to Hallmark aisles, here is the centuries-long evolution of Valentine’s Day
Posted inDevelopment Aid
Global Affairs launches matching fund to help aid organizations
Ottawa’s new LIFT program will help aid organizations grow their funding, and will further the government’s goal of creating ‘pathways for trade’
Posted inDevelopment Aid
Development aid to be tied to trade goals: secretary of state
In an exclusive interview, the secretary of state for international development talks department funding cuts, trade goals and AI
Posted inDevelopment Aid
Canadian aid organizations respond to Israel’s Gaza aid suspensions
Israel has suspended 37 international aid organizations from distributing aid in Gaza; Oxfam-Quebec and otherCanadian groups react