No Consensus on Census

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.

There has been a big kerfuffle over impendiing changes to the census in Canada and with good cause. The detailed or "long form" census gathers valuable information for virtually every sector in our society, including religious organizations. Bet you didn't think that churches used this info. Read this portion of a press release from the United Church:

"We see this as a step backward at a time when Canadians need access to
reliable census information to help build a more equitable and just
society," says the Rev. Bruce Gregersen, General Council Officer, Programs.

He adds that because the long-form census also contains questions related to
religion, it would be a great loss to faith communities and to the country
in understanding the multiplicity and richness of the spiritual makeup of
Canada.

Gregersen says like other non-profit organizations and charities, the United
Church benefits from the wealth of data that is collected and analyzed by
Statistics Canada.

He explains that many local United Church congregations, particularly those
facing significant demographic change, use census information to help
identify community needs within the neighbourhoods they serve.

"Knowing who your neighbours are is an important part of adapting
congregational outreach programs and advocacy initiatives that are integral to the church's mission..."

If was good enough for the gospel of Luke and the birth of Jesus... What are your thoughts or concerns about the census changes?