Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,
The Uniting Church since its inception has committed itself to bringing the truth of the gospel to the situations of human life, both individually and socially. This commitment brings us into the challenging and difficult spaces of life, where we face the vulnerability, fragility and ambiguity of existence.
Last year the Queensland Government announced an inquiry into aged care, end-of-life and palliative care. As a result, I have requested an update of the Synod’s current position regarding voluntary assisted dying. This consultation paper has been developed to assist the Synod in this task.
Psalm 85 is a prayer that acknowledges vulnerability and ambiguity. It expresses the hope of those who have faith:
“steadfast love and faithfulness will meet;
Righteousness and peace will kiss each other”
As the community of faith that is the Queensland Synod engages with this issue of voluntary assisted dying, I encourage you to engage with faith, hope and love; being open to one another and the Spirit, who brings the Word to us. You can engage in this consultation by attending one of the forums listed below and/or by a written submission to the Consultation Group by the 9th of March.
Consultation Dates and Locations
11 February 6.30-8.00pm: Goodna Uniting Church
18 February 6.30-8.00pm, Chermside Kedron Uniting Church
22 February 11.30am-1.00pm, Middle Ridge Uniting Church, Toowoomba
22 February 3.00-4.30pm, Dalby Uniting Church.
26 February 3.00-4.30pm, Broadwater Road Uniting Church, Mansfield
26February 6.00-7.30pm, NewLife Church Robina, Lakeside Lounges
4 March 2.00-3.30pm, Emmanuel Uniting Church, Cairns
5 March 11.30am -1.00pm, Aitkenvale Uniting Church, Townsville
9 March, Longreach, Central Queensland Presbytery meeting. Time to be confirmed.
9 March, Murgon Uniting Church, Mary Burnett Presbytery meeting. Time to be confirmed.
Every blessing,
Rev David Baker
Moderator
Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod
