On Parliament Hill

Two to three times per year, Members of Parliament are given an opportunity to rise in the House of Commons to speak on any topic of their choosing. This one minute time slot is referred to as an SO-31. Last week I had that opportunity once again and I chose to speak about the good news of Easter.

Below is the text of my speech:

Mr. Speaker, one of the things that makes Canada great is the freedom we enjoy to follow our consciences and to live out our faiths in a diverse society. This year, as Canadians celebrate 150 years since confederation, it’s important to reflect on the Judeo-Christian principles that played such a key role in Canada’s formation; principles that set the foundation for the freedom and diversity of culture and faiths that we enjoy today.

Next week, Canada and the Christian faith in particular will celebrate Easter.  Easter is a time, as singer -songwriter Chris Tomlin so wonderfully expresses, God’s Love ran Red and He sent His only Son to pay the price for our sins. But the really good news is the cross couldn’t hold Him and the tomb is empty. We serve a risen Saviour and He’s coming back again.

Mr. Speaker, to you, this house and to all Canadians, a happy and blessed Easter.

To all my constituents here in Provencher, I hope this season of renewal and the miracle of Easter fills your hearts with peace and joy.