Why Christian Universities are continuing with classes on Monday

While the three largest universities in Winnipeg have cancelled classes on Monday to honour the Queen's passing, Christian institutions are continuing on with classes. 

On Tuesday Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that there would be a one-time federal holiday on September 19 to mark the Queen's state funeral in the UK. 

The University of Manitoba, University of Winnipeg, as well as Red River College Polytechnic have noted their campuses will be closed to observe a day of mourning. 

However, Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) in Winnipeg says it will continue on with moments of reflection. 

"CMU is commemorating the extraordinary reign of Queen Elizabeth II with a short service of readings, silence, and prayers at 10 a.m. on Monday, September 19," says President Dr. Cheryl Pauls. "All students, staff, and faculty are invited to attend. Further forms of reflection will include various classes that day and a campus forum at a later time."

Pauls goes on to say in CMU's statement that because the Province of Manitoba decided to continue regular classes for students K-12, they would follow suit. 

Another Christian campus, Providence University College and Theological Seminary is having regular classes. 

"Providence recognizes September 19th as a day of mourning to honour Queen Elizabeth II, and we encourage our community to set aside some meaningful time to remember and reflect on her legacy," says Provost Nicholas Greco. "Our campus will remain open on Monday and classes will be in-session throughout the day."

Later this month the students will have a day off.

"Considering the Queen’s strong Christian faith, we believe that she would approve of respecting the Day for Truth and Reconciliation later in September," says Greco. "On that day, Providence will not be open and there will be no classes, to allow our community to reflect on reconciliation with our indigenous sisters and brothers."

Steinbach Bible College (SBC) will also take time to honour the Queen while continuing with classes. 

"Steinbach Bible College classes and offices will be open on Monday, September 19, 2022," says Interim President Terry Hiebert. "Instructors will make reference to the Queen in their classes. President Terry Hiebert will give recognition to the Queen in the chapel and lead in a moment of silence and prayer in her memory with staff and students."