Ontario Passes Bill 167: Orthodox Christian Week Act

The Ontario Legislature has officially passed Bill 167, the Orthodox Christian Week Act. The Bill proclaims the seven-day period in each year starting on Orthodox Easter Sunday as Orthodox Christian Week. This legislation celebrates the rich faith, traditions, and cultural heritage of Orthodox Christians in Ontario and around the world.

Orthodox Easter Sunday, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is the most significant and holy day in the Orthodox Christian calendar. Recognised as a cornerstone of faith for over 220 million people globally, the Orthodox Christian Church has deep roots across Eastern Europe, Africa, and Asia. In Ontario, Orthodox Christians have established thriving communities, building churches and cultural organizations that enrich the social and cultural fabric of the province.

Bill 167 acknowledges the deep spiritual significance of Orthodox Christian traditions and their contributions to Ontario’s multicultural society. It offers an opportunity to learn about the Orthodox Christian faith and celebrate its unique role in shaping Ontario’s cultural identity.

"Orthodox Christians have built vibrant communities across Ontario, enriching our province with their faith, culture, and traditions. The passing of this official week into law is an important recognition of the many contributions Ontario’s Orthodox communities have made to our shared heritage.

I was honoured to speak in support of this legislation at second reading and would like to thank MPP Tom Rakocevic for introducing this meaningful bill. Each year, this week will provide an opportunity for Orthodox Christians to reflect on their faith, culture, and history—a reminder of the values of respect and harmony that bind us together as Ontarians." – MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos

MPP Aris Babikian, who championed the bill for the Progressive Conservatives, also shared his perspective:

“As a member of the Provincial Parliament of Ontario with Armenian and Greek Orthodox heritage and roots, I am proud of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario for adopting Bill 167 to pay tribute to the Christian Orthodox communities of Ontario and celebrate their achievements and contributions to our society. During the second reading of the Bill, I had the privilege of speaking in its support and for highlighting its importance. I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Premier of Ontario for supporting this Bill.

The followers of Orthodoxy paid the ultimate price for their steadfast commitment to their faith and their beliefs. Throughout history they have been subject to genocide and other crimes against humanity. The Orthodox faith is a pillar defending and preserving the Christian faith world-wide. Today, Greek and Armenian Orthodox churches are the custodians of the most revered Christian shrines and sites in the Holy Land.”  - MPP Aris Babikian

Orthodox Christian Week will offer communities across the province an opportunity to celebrate through services, cultural events, and educational activities that highlight the beauty and depth of the Orthodox Christian tradition. By marking this special week, Ontario affirms its commitment to honouring the traditions, stories, and values of all faiths.

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