Preserving Truth in Troubling Times

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We find ourselves at a pivotal moment concerning matters that deeply affect our faith and the moral fabric of our society.

​Recent developments require our prayerful reflection and proactive engagement:

Inclusion of euthanasia "Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)" in Advance Directives

Since November, the federal Ministry of Health has been exploring the possibility of allowing "Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)" to allow its inclusion in advance directives. A final report of their conclusions is to be released this spring. If such changes were permitted, individuals could consent in advance to euthanasia, even if they may not be capable of confirming their consent at the time the procedure is carried out. While dressed up as intended to provide autonomy, this development raises profound ethical and theological concerns, particularly regarding the sanctity of life. This policy risks normalizing a culture of death, in which human life is no longer viewed as a sacred gift from God but as something that can be disposed of when deemed inconvenient. As Orthodox Christians, we affirm that life is given by God and must be met with care, love, and dignity—not premature termination under the guise of “compassion.”

Proposed Changes to Charitable Status for Religious and Pro-Life Organizations

The House of Commons Finance Committee (with members from the Liberal, Conservatives, NDP, and the BLOC) has put forth recommendations that could significantly impact faith-based and pro-life organizations:

• Recommendation 429: Proposes to revoke charitable status from organizations that oppose abortion.
• Recommendation 430: Suggests amending the Income Tax Act to redefine charity, potentially removing "advancement of religion" as a recognized charitable purpose.
• https://www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Committee/441/FINA/Reports/RP13466781/finarp21/finarp21-e.pdf

If implemented, these recommendations could hinder the vital work of religious communities and organizations that uphold the sanctity of life from conception.

Even if these recommendations are not immediately adopted, their proposal signals a growing hostility toward the Church and toward those who uphold Christian moral teaching. The very notion that faith-based charities and pro-life organizations should be penalized for adhering to their beliefs shows a dangerous shift in the cultural and political landscape. If these measures are being discussed today, what will be proposed tomorrow? We cannot afford to be silent or complacent in the face of such trends.

The Broader Implications for the Church and Society

The normalization of euthanasia, the attack on organizations that defend life, and the potential weakening of religious institutions all point to a future where Christian witness is not only ignored but actively suppressed.

I am concerned that if we remain silent now, more extreme measures will follow. What begins with the removal of tax benefits could soon lead to legal challenges against the Church’s ability to preach, teach, and serve freely. The erosion of religious liberty does not happen overnight—it happens when people fail to resist the first steps.

Call to Action

As Orthodox Christians, we are called to bear witness to the truth, even in times of trial. These developments challenge the sanctity of life and the freedom of the Church to carry out her mission. In response, let us:

1. Pray with vigilance: Seek the intercession of the Theotokos and the saints, asking for God’s mercy on our nation and wisdom for our leaders. Let us also pray for those who are suffering, that they may find comfort in Christ rather than despair.
2. Remain steadfast in our faith: The Church has always stood against the culture of death and the forces that seek to undermine the Gospel. Let us continue to uphold the sacredness of life and the mission of the Church without fear or compromise.
3. Speak the truth in love: Contact your Member of Parliament and express your concerns about these recommendations. Encourage fellow Orthodox Christians and all people of goodwill to take a stand before further measures are taken against religious freedom and the protection of life.

May our response be marked not by fear, but by the unshakable hope we have in Christ. Let us be faithful stewards of the truth entrusted to us, standing together in defense of life and the mission of the Church.

Peace and blessings,

Fr. Paul

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