Bioethical end-of-life questions are an ever-present part of our collective and individual concerns. Quebec’s recent “Dying with Dignity” hearings turned the issue into a province-wide debate. On a more personal level, whose family has not been faced with a loved one’s terminal illness and suffering?  

The medical and ethical questions raised by euthanasia, physician-assisted suicide, and palliative care are difficult and complex. As Catholics, how can we understand such notions as human dignity, compassion, solidarity, and responsibility? The content of this “topic of the month” should bring some light to the matter.

In addition, how can we enter into dialogue with a secular society, which may or may not care for the Church’s point of view? The Church does not have the credibility and persuasion it once did. If it is to engage in social debate, then the attitudes and manner which shape its stance must be those of accompaniment and common citizenship – a shared responsibility in building a better world. The same goes for priests, deacons, laywomen and laymen, who minister to those who seek truth and meaning in and outside our churches. With them, we are seekers, building the Kingdom of God.