LifeCanada
Make-Time4LIFEMake-Time4LIFE is founded on the successful Dying Healed program offered since 2018 though the former LifeCanada Association and was hosted in over 170 different parishes and church communities. As part of the updating review of all our works, we took time to match this successful program with the condition of our country in 2024. Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) has expanded in such a short time that an update was necessary. The result is Make-Time4LIFE.
Aims:
- Help Canadians understand MAiD and its far-reaching effects on individuals, families, and communities.
- Equip Christians to speak for and choose LIFE by building relationships through local churches and putting the corporal and spiritual works of mercy into practice.
- Offer an accessible, engaging program that helps LIFE-affirming Canadians understand the issue and share what they learn with their families and communities.
Background:
Canada has experienced an unheard-of advance in the disregard for life, as seen by the push for medical assistance in dying (MAiD), since it became legal in 2016. Euphemistically cloaked in this deceptive name is concept of service, and the public hears “help to die without unbearable pain,” when in truth it means medical staff are legally allowed to end your life. MAiD is euthanasia. Euthanasia is homicide and has no place in healthcare. We need medical assistance in LIVING, not dying.
Our choice for the title Make-Time4LIFE is also part of the LifeCanada legacy. In 2016, the idea was that only the dying would be endangered by MAiD. In the past years, however, we have seen that the living are also endangered because they might be suffering various illnesses, disabilities, or merely elderly or impoverished. This is no longer only about dying well, but now, about actively choosing to live well every day.
We chose to use the name as the focal point so that our mission to speak LIFE would be the center of our revision. Speaking LIFE is the way we outreach, uphold, enliven, and advance the dignity, joy and hope of every human person. Those who are suffering need a special tenderness of words and actions to persevere in their pain. So many people wish to be an agent for life and are asking: How can I be prepared to meet the needs and understand someone’s suffering? We also need to understand what our country is really offering our vulnerable so that we are prepared when our loved one asks: What do you think about MAiD?
Make-Time4LIFE is updated to reflect an ecumenical stance on this issue for this main reason:
- All Christians share the understanding that God is the author of life and to live in relationship with Him we must live in relationship with each other. This is a message we must advance not only in specific denominational circles but to all who share this truth.
Archdiocese of Vancouver, through their Pro-life Sunday Grant has been instrumental in helping us get so far in revising this successful program. After a year of intense research, revision, and redesign the next level has been achieved. Since 2024 we have distributed over 300 copies to communities and individuals. We continue to distribute and promote Make-Time4LIFE as a program comprising a handbook and facilitator guide for use in a church setting of any Christian denomination.
Knowledge before crisis becomes confidence during crisis.
Make-Time4LIFE equips churches, families, and community leaders to understand compassionate care, suffering, accompaniment, and the enduring dignity of every human person. In LIFE-critical moments, communities are prepared to respond with hope, practical support, and authentic compassion rooted in the value of every human life
If you are interested in receiving a promo copy of Make-Time4LIFE for your community, please reach out to us.
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