The Ontario regional legislature passed Bill 167 last week, officially designating Orthodox Christian Week.
“The seven-day period each year, starting on Orthodox Easter Sunday, is proclaimed as Orthodox Christian Week,” states the Ontario Parliament’s website.
MP Tom Rakocevic introduced the bill at the end of 2023 and acknowledges the profound spiritual significance of Orthodox Christian traditions and the contributions of Orthodox communities to Ontario’s multicultural society.
A Welcome Recognition
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada welcomed the legislation, emphasizing its importance in highlighting the Orthodox Christian faith in Ontario and across the country.
This law underscores the value of Orthodox Christian traditions and their role in enriching the cultural fabric of our society.
Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Ontario’s Minister of Long-Term Care, celebrated the occasion on social media: “I was honoured to speak on Bill 167, recognizing Orthodox Christian Week in Ontario. Today, it passed third reading, and I was overjoyed to mark this day with Orthodox priests and bishops watching from the Gallery!”
Celebrating Faith and Heritage
Orthodox Christian Week in Ontario is already observed annually during Bright Week, starting with Orthodox Easter, celebrated according to the Julian calendar.
The passing of Bill 167 formally recognizes this longstanding tradition and the vibrant role of the Orthodox Christian community in Ontario’s diverse cultural landscape.
Photo: Ontario Parliament / Source: Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada
