MAiD legislation is pushing some Christians into a quandary around how to handle their end of life sufferings. Hospices, like the Irene Thomas Hospice in Delta, are facing the ire of governments for maintaining a pro-life palliative care approach in managing suffering without taking active measures to end it. Has this become an issue of moral evil? As we face this Easter … [Read more...] about A thunderclap of mercy a theology of suffering
A progressive and comprehensive promise? Bill C-8
Labelling Canada’s Bill C-8 as “the most progressive and comprehensive in the world,” Canadian Attorney General Minister David Lametti introduced legislation for the government’s new ban on conversion therapy. The action, tabled along with Bardish Chagger, the minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth, fulfilled a campaign promise many Christian leaders hoped would be … [Read more...] about A progressive and comprehensive promise? Bill C-8
The push to merge palliative care with MAiD
Two hours after I left the hospice, my friend was dead. We had talked about fears, read Psalm 23, and sang 10,000 Reasons. The hovering nurses smiled as I left. It seemed so peaceful. And sudden. At times I wondered if this hospice had fallen prey to the push to merge palliative care with MAiD (Medical Assistance in Dying). A July 2019 article from the Association for … [Read more...] about The push to merge palliative care with MAiD
No to Conversion Therapy?
The tsunami of individualism set in motion by the tectonic shifts in our courts has launched another wave onto the shores of our faith. Or has it? Does the growing ban on conversion therapy across our country deal a blow to the church’s practice of discipleship or is this another tempest in a teapot? The massive writing campaign from Christians aimed at MPs is attempting to … [Read more...] about No to Conversion Therapy?
No more pain and suffering
St. Francis said it best: “It is in dying that we are born to eternal life.” So said the notice. Dave and his family agreed with doctors that 11 am would be the end. At 11 am, there would be no more smelling of roses or perfume; no more hearing of bird song, symphonies and children’s laughter; no more rainbows or sunsets; no more hugs, kisses, tears or memories. The thing … [Read more...] about No more pain and suffering