Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a CO?
- What is the connection between Mennonites, Brethren in Christ and conscientious objection?
- What does the Bible say about this issue?
- Are there conscientious objectors in Canada today?
- Are the freedoms of conscientious objectors guaranteed in Canada?
- How can I get involved?
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What is a CO?
A conscientious objector (CO) is someone who decides that they cannot take part in military service or go to war. For COs, participating in combat goes against deeply held beliefs and their conscience. Some COs arrive at this decision because of religious experience and conviction, and others base this on moral or ethical principles. COs have diverse beliefs about what constitutes military service. During times of conscription, some COs are willing to participate in non-combatant military roles or alternative service, while others refuse to support the military in any way.
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What is the connection between Mennonites, Brethren in Christ and conscientious objection?
Mennonites and Brethren in Christ are among the historic peace churches, along with Quakers (Friends) and Hutterites. These churches resist participation in war and military service because it violates central tenets of faith. Members of these churches have historically been conscientious objectors (see MCC’s peace statement). The promise of being exempt from military service was an important factor influencing Mennonites and Tunkers (an earlier name for Brethren in Christ) to move to Canada in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many Mennonites and Brethren in Christ in Canada successfully claimed CO status in both of the world wars. (for more information see the History section).
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What does the Bible say about this issue?
Conscientious objection is a fairly recent term which is not mentioned in the Bible. However, Mennonite and Brethren in Christ believe that the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, as described in the New Testament, teach the way of peace and nonviolence. They believe that these teachings are incompatible with war and military service. See, for example: Matthew 5:38-48, Luke 1:68-79, Romans 12:14-21 and Ephesians 2:11-22 or MCC's Biblical roots of the peace position.
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Are there conscientious objectors in Canada today?
Yes. Because there is no conscription at present, no one is required by law to register as a CO, except those who come to a position of conscientious objection while in the military. Many people nevertheless identify themselves as COs in an informal sense. Completing a written statement of conscientious objection is a way of making this more real. MCC recommends that people consider their beliefs about war and document them. Please see the registry page for more information on how to complete a written statement of conscientious objection. A committment to conscientious objection usually comes out of a deeply held belief in the futility of violence. Therefore, many people believe that along with resisting war, they are called to actively promote peace.
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Are the freedoms of conscientious objectors guaranteed in Canada?
The current National Defence Act does not discuss conscientious objection or conscription. When Canada imposed conscription in the two world wars, provisions for conscientious objectors (COs) were provided. Also, Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms recognizes the right of freedom of conscience (MCC statements). Based on the above, there is good reason to believe that the rights of conscientious objectors would be honoured if the Government of Canada imposed conscription. However, individuals would need to demonstrate their convictions in order to be granted official CO status. Therefore, MCC encourages people to complete a written statement for the Conscientious Objector Registry.
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How can I get involved?
There are various ways to become involved in the conscientious objector movement. The first is to think about your own personal views on war and military service, and complete a written statement for the Registry. Another is to consider conscientious objection within the larger framework of peace, and find ways to work for peace in your community. Praying for peace, gaining skills in conflict resolution, practicing forgiveness, welcoming refugees, advocating for justice, caring for the earth, and living simply are all examples of working for peace. You may also wish to engage in forms public witness such as advocating MPs, writing letters, holding public prayers/vigils (for more information, see the Public Witness Toolkit). Thirdly, consider a campaign undertaken by Conscience Canada (www.consciencecanada.ca) that encourages people to withhold the military portion of their income tax rather than contribute financially to war (read more on Mennonite Church Canada’s recent resolution related to this topic).
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