Caring for the Dying The task group was asked to prepare a position statement1 for the United Church on current issues that surround life-threatening illness, disability, and death, with a view to assisting church members and congregations faced with making difficult choices. The need for such a statement was demonstrated by: Petition 62 from Muskoka Presbytery to the 34th General Council (see appendix A); requests from United Church members asking for materials containing such guidance; a report from the former Moderator, Walter Farquharson: in his travels across the country, he found that church members are dissatisfied with the church's apparent failure to address concerns such as the use of life support systems, living wills, and euthanasia; the urgency of avoiding futile prolongation of life for chronically or terminally ill patients, and avoiding painful decisions for their families during such prolongation. The full report can be found attached to this page. Resources Caring for the Dying.pdf Save to PDF True Document Date May 31, 1995 Document Type Social Policy Originating Body Other Topic Death and Dying Latest News Staff Gathering for Strategic Planning, 2026–2028 General Council and Regional Council Office staff will engage in intensive planning to strengthen collaboration in supporting the life and ministry of The United Church of Canada across the country. GCE Summary, February 20–21, 2026 The first 45th General Council Executive (GCE) of 2026 met online on February 20 and 21, 2026, thoughtfully reflecting the Executive’s role to offer insight, oversight, and foresight for the good of the church. First Executive Meeting of 2026 Coming up February 20–21 The 45th General Council Executive (GCE) meets online on February 20 and 21. Using the lenses of Deep Spirituality, Bold Discipleship, and Daring Justice, the Executive members will work generatively together, and reflect through the communal experience of worship.
