Voluntary Assisted Dying Act

We Care – Responding to the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act

From the earliest times, Christ’s followers have set themselves apart by their care of the vulnerable (Acts 4:34). On 19 June 2019, the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act (VAD) comes into effect. It legalises euthanasia and assisted suicide. Despite what the law may say, our Christian tradition affirms that every life, including those of the sick and suffering, is sacred. Euthanasia and assisted suicide are never part of end of life care.

Pope Francis has encouraged ordinary Catholics everywhere to resist euthanasia and to protect the old, the young and the vulnerable from being cast aside in a “throw-away culture.” We are called to follow Christ by accompanying people with compassion, sharing hope not fear. 

The Bishops of the Catholic dioceses of Melbourne, Ballarat, Sale and Sandhurst, echoing Pope Francis, have published a pastoral letter including practical guidance on ways we can be conscientious objectors to euthanasia. 

Copies of the letter are available in our parish and online: www.cam.org.au/euthanasia

Please read and share it.

Please click on links below for full texts. 

Pastoral Letter 

We Care