To the Clergy and Lay Faithful of the Archdiocese of Vancouver:

Last month, the Supreme Court of Canada overturned the law against assisted suicide and gave Parliament one year to write a new law.  This ruling will expose vulnerable Canadians to pressure to end their lives and could lead to euthanasia in our hospitals and care homes.With a federal election this fall, there is not enough time for Parliament to research, hold public consultations, and enact a new law.  By invoking the Notwithstanding Clause, this issue can receive the time needed for it to be adequately addressed.In your pews is a postcard addressed to Justice Minister Peter MacKay, asking him to use the Notwithstanding Clause.  Please sign the card and return it to the ushers.  In doing so, you’ll add your voice to thousands of others urging Ottawa to act responsibly. This is a critical time for Canada.  The Supreme Court has thrown out protection for the vulnerable.  It is essential that government have sufficient time to write new legislation that includes every possible safeguard against suicide and euthanasia.Please continue to promote quality palliative care in Canada so that Canadians are not drawn to suicide out of fear, isolation or despair.  I also invite you to practice the corporal work of mercy of personally caring for the sick and dying, as well as offering some of your Lenten prayer and fasting for this important cause. I invoke upon you the blessings of our heavenly Father and with the assurance of my prayers for you and your families, I remain

Sincerely yours in Christ,
J. Michael Miller, CSB
Archbishop of Vancouver

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