In 2016 Canada gave the terminally ill the choice to be euthanised.

In 2021 the offer was extended to those who were not terminally ill but have a “grievous and irremediable medical condition” including “psychological suffering that is intolerable”. And, of course, you have to “be eligible for health care services in Canada”, because suicide, like abortion, has become health care.

Mental illness is not considered to be intolerable psychological suffering – yet. It is liable to fall into that category later this year, along with an opportunity for mature minors to take up the invitation if they find themselves overburdened by the stresses and strains of the human condition.

Since life and death is a large part of the business of the church, one might be forgiven for expecting it to have a clear and definitive position on all this. Alas not.

Anglican Primate Linda Nicholl’s manages to muster up some concern about Canada’s eagerness to peddle health-care-death, but that’s about as far as she goes. Perhaps less energy expended in lamenting the climate emergency – or whatever it’s called this week – and more in denouncing our abortion and euthanasia death cults would be more… oh, I don’t know – prophetic.

Read it all here:

I am concerned about these potential extensions of MAID eligibility and the questions they raise. How do we ensure that every individual and family has what is needed to make an informed and accessible choice? In the face of illnesses or challenging disabilities it may be easy to see MAID as a preferable option, especially as it is less costly than providing the community supports that improve quality of life in its last stages, making access to mental health supports readily available, increasing palliative care accessibility and ensuring a circle of support for those whose lives are challenging physically, emotionally or mentally.

My prayer is that we will be willing to work for all that makes life a gift and blessing so that choices are not limited by fear or lack of support. Honest discussion in parishes about MAID are needed to explore the implications of the current change in legislation and any future ones for individuals, families and communities. Pastoral support is essential in whatever path is chosen. And in all aspects, as we walk in the midst of the realities of suffering, we are called in humility to mercy and compassion in the light of God’s love.