Euthanasia debate reaches Norwich church

Euthanasia and how to respond to the proposed Assisted Dying for the Terminally Ill legislation is the topic for an evening put on by CARE’s Life Valued national tour in Norwich on May 31.

 

Head of UK & Church Development at CARE, Mike Simmonds, is hosting an evening which will feature multimedia, teaching and inspiration on the issue of euthanasia and in particular how to respond to the proposed Assisted Dying for the Terminally Ill legislation which was delayed in the House of Lords last week.

 

The Lords voted 148 to 100 to prevent the proposals from going any further. After a wide-ranging debate covering all aspects of assisted suicide and euthanasia, Peers voted to accept an amendment drafted by Lord Carlisle. The Bill will be delayed for another six months but in reality will no longer be viable, says CARE. 

 

“Our nation has avoided pursuing a path where we devalue the lives of the terminally ill, elderly and disabled,” said Mike Simmonds, leader of CARE’s Life Valued Campaign.

 

“This is in no small measure because of the way in which public opinion has been demonstrated through CARE’s Life Valued campaign, letter writing by concerned people and the over 100,000 who have signed the Care Not Killing petition.

 

“The long term impact of such legislation will change the way we view the terminally ill, the elderly and the disabled forever.  In fact, the way as a society we view life itself,” said Mike.

 

The evening’s programme in Norwich will include excerpts from Joni Eareckson Tada at the Born for a Purpose event, updates on the passage of the Joffe Bill through Parliament, ideas on how the church can respond positively and compassionately in the community.

 

The event takes place at the King’s Centre, King’s Street on May 31. Tickets are free and the evening will begin with tea/coffee served at 7.15 and the programme will run from 7.30 - 9.30pm. An offering will be taken at the event to help with the costs of the tour.