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Archbishop Emeritus Mancini's Letters to the Faithful

On Medical Assistance in Dying and Hope in Christ: A toolkit to share our message

71624139 b00d 45d7 9803 e3d78724f96dIn June 2026, euthanasia, commonly known as MAiD, became legal in Canada. This changed the medical and healthcare landscape for all Canadians. For Canadian Catholics specifically, this raises moral questions that lead to difficult conversations or to their avoidance.

To bring greater awareness, understanding, and faithful action regarding MAiD, the Archdiocese created a toolkit titled "On Medical Assistance in Dying and Hope in Christ: A toolkit to share our message". The toolkit equips people to:

  • Understand the current context of MAiD in Canada and Nova Scotia
  • Talk about MAiD with family, friends, and parishioners
  • Understand our Catholic teaching and stance against MAiD
  • Access further resources

The toolkit is aimed at clergy, hospital chaplains, and those in pastoral care; however, it is available to all. The toolkit is meant to be used as a DIGITAL RESOURCE on your computer, tablet, or phone, and can be accessed by clicking the toolkit image to the left.

Many of the links within the toolkit connect to the resource directly, apart from the links below:

Dying with Christ, Living with Hope

Dying with Christ, Living with Hope

 

Atlantic Bishops’ Pastoral Reflection on Medical Assistance in Dying

The bishops of the Atlantic region released a official document offering their thoughts on medical assistance in dying, on Sunday, November 27, 2016. They urge the need for pastoral care and companionship and deep prayer as the conversation continues regarding end of life care

Archbishop Mancini states in his cover letter:

On this first Sunday of Advent, I am pleased to present the pastoral reflection of the Atlantic Bishops, on the matter of medically assisted dying.

In this letter, the bishops offer their thoughts and advise on how to appropriately respond to individuals and their families who may be considering medically assisted dying and seeking pastoral care.

I invite all the faithful to receive this reflection for their prayerful consideration. I invite all clergy and laity involved in the care of the sick and dying, to reflect the pastoral attitudes contained in this letter.

May the birth of Christ for which we are preparing, help us to appreciate the full value of life and respectfully care for it.

To read the full text: A Pastoral Reflection on Medical Assistance in Dying click here. C’est disponsable en français ici.

Prayer

Samples of prayers for specific moments, as well as contact info for a great variety of resources.

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Resources

Contact info for information and materials to meet the great many needs, interests and circumstances.

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