“A decade has passed since Bill C-14 received Royal Assent on 17 June 2016, legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide across Canada, and permitting eligible adults, under specified conditions, to access what is legally termed “Medical Assistance in Dying” (“MAiD”). As we mark this sobering anniversary, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (CCCB) Standing Committee for Family and Life invites the Catholic faithful and all people of goodwill to voice renewed concern about “MAID,” to remain steadfast in opposing euthanasia and assisted suicide, to pray for the conversion of hearts and minds away from this practice, and to be present to persons who are sick and vulnerable.”
‘On this 10th anniversary, we pray for the 100,000 whose lives have been lost to “MAiD.”
We also pray for their loved ones, many of whom continue to carry grief, confusion, regret, or unanswered questions.
We remember those who continue to suffer: the sick, persons with disabilities, the elderly, those living with mental illness, those nearing the end of life, and all who experience loneliness, fear, or despair.
We renew our call to give witness at the side of the sick person and to become a healing community in order to actualize concretely the desire of Jesus that, beginning with the most weak and vulnerable, all may be one flesh.”
Even in suffering, illness, dependence, and frailty, human life retains its God-given dignity and capacity for love, communion, and grace.’
PRAYER
In communion with our Lord, the Great Physician,
let us offer together a prayer of hope, compassion, and vision
towards the promise of everlasting love and life:
Loving God, rock of strength for those who trust in You;
comforter of those who call on You.
Hear the cry of those who suffer from sickness or weakness,
and embrace them in Your loving arms.
Give them peace, and strengthen them with the vision of Your kingdom.
We make this prayer through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
See the full letter and additional information and resources, here.