moved that Bill S-5, an act to incorporate the Canadian Association of Lutheran Congregations, be read the second time and referred to a committee.
Mr. Speaker, I appreciate this opportunity to speak on behalf of my colleague from Calgary Northeast regarding the Canadian Association of Lutheran Congregations.
Lutheranism in Canada has been a long and honourable tradition. The first Lutheran service was conducted in 1619 by Chaplain Rasmus Jensen at Port Churchill, Manitoba as part of Jens Munk Expedition.
The first Lutheran congregation was organized at Halifax in 1752. Lutherans have made a valuable contribution to the cultural heritage of Canadians and currently Lutherans in Canada form the fourth largest Christian church.
It is as a part of this proud tradition in Canada that the Canadian Association of Lutheran Congregations seeks incorporation. This association was organized in October of 1992 and currently has functioned as an unincorporated non-profit association of congregations and individuals.
Currently there are over 1,000 persons throughout the three western provinces and six congregations in the association and its organization.
The organization is intended to have two functions. First, it will act as a denomination for congregations wishing to join it. As well, there may be associate members, either persons or congregations, agreeing with the goals, aims and theology of the association. This association seeks a return to Lutheran roots with its emphasis on Scripture, missions and Lutheran theology.
I raise that point and know that we can dispose of this as quickly as possible so it may be incorporated as quickly as the House can deal with it.
I suspect there is unanimous consent for the following:
That notwithstanding any standing order and the usual practices of the House, Bill S-5, an act to incorporate the Canadian Association of Lutheran Congregations, be now called for second reading and that the House proceed to dispose of the said bill at all stages, including committee of the whole.