Some guidance for pastors on MAiD
Christian Reformed Church in North America – provides a list of resources on their website (Network. CRCNA.org). A search will turn up more, including this statement: “Chaplains have always been present in the midst of great pain and suffering. Whether in the trenches with soldiers or at the bedside of a patient suffering with terminal illness, the gospel compels us to be a nonjudgmental, gracious presence against the urge to be indifferent.”
The Evangelical Missionary Church of Canada – is preparing a position paper on the issue, which is expected to be available this summer.
The Free Methodist Church in Canada – has a manual that lays out Church doctrine and beliefs. It includes a section on assisted suicide and euthanasia (www. FMCIC.ca). In addition, the denomination is creating a small group curriculum – expected to be available this fall. According to Matthew McEwen, who is creating the curriculum, it will draw on the Christian tradition of ars moriendi (the art of dying) and will include a video series on dying well. It will include sessions on grief, memoir, finances, physical issues, spiritual concerns, the funeral and last wishes. McEwen also recommends the book The Art of Dying: Living Fully Into the Life to Come by Rob Moll (InterVarsity Press, 2021).
The Presbyterian Church in Canada – in-depth position paper on physician-assisted suicide (at www.Presbyterian. ca) includes this guidance: “Christians in Canada must learn now what our earliest faith ancestors knew – that we are called to live our faith with both commitment and courage, for we are no longer the majority opinion,” and this: “If someone chooses physician-assisted suicide, or calls for medical intervention to prolong life, pastors need not feel compelled to bless or encourage the choice. Pastors do need to show humility, grace and compassion. . . . Ministers can still serve and care for persons whose
choices differ from their own, with respect and care.”
The Salvation Army – states that “Area commanders have been trained to support officers facing this situation. They can provide resources for the journey and offer debriefing opportunities. In addition, training materials for providing pastoral care to persons considering MAiD are currently in production. Look for them to be rolled out soon.” An article published at www.Salvationist.ca provides this guidance: “When a person considering or opting for MAiD seeks pastoral care, Salvation Army officers are not discouraged from providing it. As everyone has God-given dignity, we are not to turn our backs on people who opt for MAiD. We may stand against MAiD, but we stand for people. People are always worth our care.”
Lutheran Church–Canada – has a resolution (at www. LutheranChurchCanada.ca) that “reiterates and underscores our unwavering position regarding the sanctity of human life” and “be it further resolved that districts, congregations, pastors, teachers and lay leaders be encouraged to promote the scriptural stand of the Synod at every opportunity, while dealing lovingly and evangelically with those who have transgressed or are tempted to transgress this position.” Leadership on life issues is also handled by Lutherans for Life, a listed service organization (LutheransForLife-Canada.ca).—PP