November 2nd, 2023
Statement on Antisemitism and Islamophobia

By MC Canada Executive Ministers Group

The horrific attacks by Hamas on Israeli citizens on October 7, followed by the brutal siege, bombing, and invasion of Gaza by the Israeli Defence Forces since then, have led to an increase in anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim speech and hate crimes around the world, including in Canada. We call on Mennonite Church Canada congregations and members to resist this rhetoric in their spheres of influence, and to show support for their Jewish and Muslim neighbours in Jesus’ way of love. We also continue to call our congregations and members to pray for a just peace in Israel and Palestine which will allow both Israelis and Palestinians to live in freedom and safety.

Doug Klassen
Executive Minister, Mennonite Church Canada

Ann L. Schultz
Executive Team Leader, Mennonite Church Eastern Canada

Michael Pahl
Executive Minister, Mennonite Church Manitoba

Gary Peters
Interim Executive Minister, Mennonite Church Saskatchewan

Tim Wiebe-Neufeld
Executive Minister, Mennonite Church Alberta

Shel Boese
Executive Minister, Mennonite Church British Columbia

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Executive Ministers aspire to speak out of their roles as leaders within Mennonite Church Canada, seeking to ensure that all public statements such as this reflect values affirmed by MC Canada in its historic confessions, past resolutions, and current ministries. If any MC Canada congregation member has concerns about this statement, please contact your regional church Executive Minister.