Message from Bishop Rachel and Bishop Robert, 29 October 2024

Published: Tuesday October 29, 2024

In the coming weeks there will be much debate and discussion on assisted suicide as Parliament prepares to debate proposals to legalise this in the UK.

We very much recognise that this is a hugely emotive subject as we bring to it our individual experiences of caring for those at the point of death, the stories of those we know and love, and our awareness of our own mortality. In such a highly charged debate we recognise that while across our nation there are those who hold radically different perspectives, there is a commonality in people’s desire to be caring and compassionate in meeting the needs of those who are terminally ill.

As a society we are not good at speaking about death and dying and this makes the discussion and debate all the more difficult, whilst also challenging those of us who are Christians to be willing to talk about death more openly. In all of this we want to underline the importance of treating each other with respect and gentleness even in places of disagreement.

As people continue to reflect on the matter of assisted suicide, we want to be clear about our own views and indeed the stance Bishop Rachel will be taking in the House of Lords, which is that of opposing the forthcoming Bill and standing against assisted suicide.  However, we are also clear that our stand is about compassion and supporting those in despair and those who are vulnerable. Thus, we want to advocate for policies and funding which make provision for efficient and effective palliative care, as well as properly resourced community support and mental health services. It is not good to be having this debate at a time when assisted suicide is potentially perceived as a response to a lack of all these things.

As disciples of Jesus Christ who promises life, and who on the cross overcame death, we are confident in our understanding of the precious nature of life which is God’s gift to us, and we want to affirm the mystery of every person being created in the image of God. We also recognise that while we cannot impose our theological understanding on those who do not share our faith, we do share with many community leaders a deep concern for the welfare of all regardless of religious faith or affiliation, and especially for the most vulnerable in society. In this we would name not only the widow, the orphan and the stranger but also the elderly, those living in poverty, those whose disability puts them at risk, and those in coercive relationships.

There will be those who support assisted suicide and argue that it is about people having the right to choose. Furthermore, proponents of assisted suicide argue that there will be safeguards in place to protect the interests of all parties as choice is enacted. However, our response is that the choices people make are never made in a vacuum but always in the context of relationships and circumstances, and there is no way of offering complete and genuine protection to those who need it. As Archbishop Justin has commented, the danger which no safeguard can protect us from is that in the mind of the elderly and the vulnerable the right to die can so easily become the duty to die. Furthermore, experience from other countries which have taken this route such as Canada and the state of Oregon in the USA, has shown how quickly such safeguards are eroded and the criteria for those eligible and opting for assisted suicide has greatly expanded.

It is our conclusion, and that of General Synod in two debates of recent years, that however pastorally intended and whatever safeguards are offered, proposals for assisted suicide are not safe in ensuring the protection of those most in need. With this conclusion we reiterate our desire for a better provision of end-of-life care for all such that each individual may be enabled to die with dignity supported by people who care.

We recognise that there will be many within and beyond our Church who hold a different perspective so we do encourage people to read about it, engage in conversation and above all pray about it. Please do also share your views with your Member of Parliament.

Please also know that we are present to support you as the discussion continues and as together we seek to serve our society and be faithful to God. Above all else know that you along with those in the Houses of Commons and Lords are in our prayers, and that our commitment as a Church to minister to the sick and prepare the dying for their death is unshaken.

+ Rachel

Bishop Robert's signature

7 thoughts on “Message from Bishop Rachel and Bishop Robert, 29 October 2024

  1. With appropriate safeguarding in place, it should be a decision left for the individual to make.

    Having watched 3 parents die hideous deaths from cancer, I doubt anyone who say they wouldn’t want the provision & privilege of choosing their own death, if only to save the pain & anguish of their families.

  2. Whilst having every sympathy with those whose suffering has become intolerable, and those who are caring for them, I can see that official sanction for assisted dying is at the top of a slippery slope and may begin to erode the position of the vulnerable very quickly.
    Thank you for the concise summary of the subject.

  3. Padded out, no real commitment,
    The Lord giveth.
    The Lord taketh away.
    Look at the abortion death toll.

  4. My wonderful mum.
    Mary has never been diagnosed with anything other than old age. Unfortunately it’s 7 years that she’s been bedridden. Needs a hoist to and fro from bed to chair to bath. She’s lost all her self esteem and morals. She was a headteacher and when dad died she gave up life. The strain this has caused me is enormous. She wrote a letter to her GP for assisted dying 8 years ago. It is impossible for me to watch a fabulous human become a piece of flesh that pain hurts her to move a limb.

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