Ontario celebrates first Orthodox Christian Week

QUEEN’S PARK — Yesterday, Orthodox Christian leadership from across Ontario came to Queen's Park to celebrate the inaugural Orthodox Christian Week.

This new week of significance in Ontario became law in December 2024 after Bill 167: Orthodox Christian Week Act, tabled by MPP Rakocevic, received unanimous support from all MPPs. This annual week-long observance will commence every Orthodox Christian Easter, and will share awareness of the faith, and knowledge of the contributions its followers have made here in Ontario and worldwide.

The two families of Orthodox Christianity together form the second largest Christian denomination in the world with over 250 million followers.

"There are almost 1 million Canadians of Orthodox Christian faith, with most living in Ontario. We are part of the rich cultural mosaic of our great country, and are now recognized. I deeply thank all who worked with me to make Orthodox Christian Week a reality." said MPP Rakocevic.

The passage of Bill 167 underscores Ontario's commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, reflecting Ontario's efforts to support the rights of all cultural and religious communities. This new legislation is expected to encourage community events, programs, and interfaith dialogues, enriching Ontario's rich cultural landscape.