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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

 

Who is eligible for MAiD?

Many people think that MAiD is only for people who are about to die. This is not correct. Since 2021, MAiD has expanded to persons with disabilities and chronic conditions.

For example, being a person on the autism spectrum can be enough to qualify. In 2027, MAiD will be available for persons whose only health concern is mental health. A parliamentary committee has already recommended that MAiD be expanded to include children. An Ontario man in his twenties who had cancer, died from MAiD even though he had a 65% chance of recovery with chemotherapy treatments.

For more information on this topic visit our Ministry Care and Companionship page for MAiD Reflection Series

Prayer

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

Resources

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