The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms is calling on the City of Abbotsford to reverse its decision to deny a permit for the “Let Us Worship Revive in 25” event scheduled for August 24 at Mill Lake Park, accusing the municipality of engaging in unlawful censorship.The event is part of a national Christian tour headlined by musician Sean Feucht. Organizers say they have worked for months to meet city requirements and note that a modest police presence has been sufficient for past gatherings.According to the Justice Centre, city officials recently told organizers that “safety letters” from the Abbotsford police and fire departments were required to move forward. However, the city said those letters would not be issued because the police chief and fire chief believed the risks were beyond their departments’ capacity to manage.Lawyers for the Justice Centre have sent a warning letter to the mayor, councilmembers, and staff demanding the permit be reinstated immediately. They have also instructed all city officials to preserve records related to the cancellation in anticipation of possible legal action.“The cancellations of these worship events by government entities across Canada has exposed a grotesque lack of government knowledge and appreciation for Canada’s fundamental freedoms, including those of religion, expression and peaceful assembly,” said constitutional lawyer Marty Moore. He added that legal action “is not off the table.”The group cited a 1985 Supreme Court decision by Chief Justice Brian Dickson affirming Canadians’ right to manifest religious beliefs through worship, teaching and dissemination.Justice Centre president John Carpay said the future of Charter rights depends not only on the courts but on whether Canadians “cherish the free society in their hearts.”The group is urging the city to allow the August 24 event to proceed under normal safety measures and demonstrate respect for religious freedom and expression.
