Canadian military adopts neutral 'spiritual reflections' for ceremonies, limiting God references

The Canadian government released new guidance on Wednesday that mandates the use of inclusive "spiritual reflections" rather than religious prayers at military ceremonies, explicitly prohibiting references to God. Acting Chaplain General Shaun Yaskiw explained the rule is intended to ensure all participants, regardless of faith or lack thereof, feel their beliefs are acknowledged, while preserving the CAF's duty of religious neutrality.

The policy applies to events such as parades, graduations, change-of-command and award ceremonies, and permits Indigenous practices for cultural and educational reasons without endorsing any belief system. Chaplains may still provide faith-specific counseling, worship services and rites in private or voluntary contexts. Conservative MPs, including James Bezan and Andrew Lawton, have denounced the measure as an attack on religious freedom. The guidance follows earlier directives aimed at inclusive language after a Supreme Court ruling on state neutrality.