Ministry of Care and Companionship

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

In 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

Policy could force 42 Nova Scotia physicians out of practice

A policy passed by the medical regulator in Nova Scotia in May 2024 requires physicians to participate in MAiD. 42 Nova Scotia physicians have indicated that they cannot follow the policy that forces them to refer patients for euthanasia and advise patients when they might qualify. 8 other Canadian jurisdictions have found ways around this problem.

According to the Church, Catholic physicians can not refer patients for euthanasia because to do so would violate the dignity of the human person. Please use go to bit.ly/24NSRegulator to make your MLA aware of the problem and ask them to help with a resolution.

For more information and reflections on MAiD and it’s impact CLICK HERE