Anglican Church of Canada Offers Liturgies for Medically Assisted Dying

The Anglican Church of Canada has introduced new liturgies for medically assisted dying, reflecting the denomination’s evolving stance on end-of-life care. These liturgies, drawn from “Pastoral Liturgies at the Time of Death in Contexts of Medically Assisted Dying,” were approved by the denomination’s Council of General Synod in June. The texts are designed to provide pastoral care for individuals and their families in the context of medical assistance in dying, a practice legalized in Canada in 2016.

The liturgies emphasize compassion and unity, acknowledging the diverse perspectives within the Anglican community. One of the texts begins by describing a “thin-space” where God meets the congregation, inviting participants to gather as friends, family, and healthcare professionals. The language underscores the shared love and compassion for the individual undergoing the procedure, while also recognizing the ethical tensions surrounding the practice.

The document acknowledges that medical assistance in dying evokes strong and opposing views within the Anglican Church and broader society. Some clergy and Christians believe the practice violates their understanding of ethical values, while others emphasize the church’s duty to provide pastoral care to all who are dying. The liturgies are intended to support individuals regardless of their personal beliefs or decisions regarding end-of-life care.

Medical assistance in dying has become a significant part of Canada’s healthcare landscape. As of the end of 2024, Health Canada reported 76,475 approved procedures. The Anglican Church of Canada, which has faced declining membership since the 1960s, is navigating these changes within a broader context of demographic and cultural shifts. The denomination’s average member is now over 60, and projections suggest the church may have no members, attenders, or givers by 2040.

The use of these new liturgies requires the consent of the local bishop, as ongoing debate continues within the denomination. The liturgies are part of a broader effort to address the needs of a changing congregation while maintaining the church’s commitment to pastoral care. The texts reflect a complex interplay of theological, ethical, and practical considerations in the face of modern challenges.

The Anglican Church of Canada’s approach to medically assisted dying highlights the denomination’s struggle to balance tradition with contemporary realities. As the church seeks to minister to a shrinking and aging congregation, it must also respond to the diverse needs of its members in an increasingly secular society. The liturgies represent an attempt to provide spiritual support in a context that is both legally and ethically contested.

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