09/02/2026
Shining the light of faith on the referendum questions
On October 19, Albertans will be going to the polls to vote on a set of 10 questions prepared by Danielle Smith's UCP government. It's vitally important that those who are eligible get out and vote. While there's been a lot of news surrounding the question about holding a binding referendum to remain in Canada or separate, the other 9 questions may not be as well understood. Over the coming weeks, we will look at these questions through the lens of faith.
We are privileged to live and worship on Treaty 7 land, home to the Nakoda First Nations: Chiniki, Bearspaw, Goodstoney; the Blackfoot Confederacy: Kainai, Pikani, and Siksika, and the Tsuut’ina Nation. This territory is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3. We commit to walking alongside our Indigenous neighbours in respect, listening, and partnership, trusting that the Spirit is leading us toward a more just and healed future.
Question 1:
Do you support the Government of Alberta taking increased control over immigration for the purposes of decreasing immigration to more sustainable levels, prioritizing economic migration and giving Albertans first priority on new employment opportunities?
Our response:
Acts 10:34 God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from...the door is open.
Welcoming the stranger is a recurring theme in scripture. As people of faith following the path of Christ, we are called to the practice of radical hospitality, of loving our neighbour without conditions. As residents of the Bow Valley, immigrants are a vital part of the work force in health care and the service industry.
They enliven the cultural fabric of our towns, and they are our neighbours. It is important that we let the government of Alberta know where we stand on this issue.
“The Alberta government already has the tools it needs to influence economic migration. This question is unnecessary, confusing and misleading. We are voting NO on Question 1.” -Founders & Contributors of BeforeVoting.ca: https://beforevoting.ca/article-source/question-1
Loving God, help us to welcome immigrants with open hearts. We acknowledge that we ~ or our ancestors, were once immigrants to this province. May we make room for all who come looking for a better life within the boundaries of this province.
May we be good neighbours.
Amen
