Abstract
In 2016, Canada legalized Bill C-14, which removed from the Criminal Code medical assistance in dying (MAID) under certain circumstances. In essence, the Bill legalized what is commonly described as euthanasia, under the provisions that the patient has a terminal medical diagnosis, anticipates extreme suffering, is at least 18 years old and still maintains their own medical power of attorney, has received the same diagnosis from two separate doctors, and requests such a procedure without duress. The bill exempts doctors and nurses from culpability in murder, along with those aiding the medical staff. The bill replaces sections of the Criminal Code that criminalize death by suicide. In this article, I first review the theological and historical interpretation of suicide within the Christian church. I then offer a specifically Lutheran feminist framework of our baptism into death, Luther’s explanation of the First Commandment, and Christian freedom to affirm Christians’ faithful decisions in seeking medical assistance in dying.
Highlights
In 2016, Canada legalized Bill C-141, which removed from the Criminal Code medical assistance in dying (MAID) under certain circumstances
The Bill legalized what is commonly described as euthanasia, under the provisions that the patient has a terminal medical diagnosis, anticipates extreme suffering, is at least 18 years old and still maintains their own medical power of attorney, has received the same diagnosis from two separate doctors, and requests such a procedure without duress
From 2015 to 2017, the ELCIC engaged in a congregational study process to examine the theological, faith, and cultural perspectives on MAID, which resulted in a resolution coming to the floor of the 2018 National Convention
Summary
In 2016, Canada legalized Bill C-141 , which removed from the Criminal Code medical assistance in dying (MAID) under certain circumstances. While there are undoubtedly other issues at stake, including those of medical professionals to refuse to act against their conscience, decriminalization of suicide, and the role of religion in shaping proposed legislation, this article does not address those As such, it first reviews the theological and historical interpretations of suicide that have formed the foundations of understanding in the Christian church. It first reviews the theological and historical interpretations of suicide that have formed the foundations of understanding in the Christian church It offers a Lutheran feminist framework of our baptism into death, Luther’s explanation of the First Commandment, and his understanding of Christian freedom to affirm Christians’ faithful decisions in seeking medical assistance in dying that emphasizes the compassionate relationality of God with us as the primary lens through which these are interpreted
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