Quebec cardinal won't refuse funerals for those choosing assisted death

[rug]

PHILIPPE VAILLANCOURT
CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE
September 30, 2016

QUEBEC CITY – Cardinal Gerald Lacroix of Quebec said he has no intention to follow in the steps of his fellow Canadian bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories in refusing funerals for those who asked to be euthanized.

"I don't plan specific directives aimed at refusing this support or refusing access to the anointing of the sick and the celebration of funerals," Cardinal Lacroix said in a statement Sept. 29. The cardinal was reacting to a document published earlier this month by the bishops of Alberta and the Northwest Territories, addressed to the clergy, in which they said these sacraments and celebrations may be refused for those opting for assisted suicide or euthanasia.

"The Catholic Church accompanies people in every step of their life. We do that in dialogue with every person and every family that wishes to be accompanied," added the cardinal.

He also reminded people of everyone's "unconditional dignity in the eyes of God."

http://www.catholicregister.org/item/23227-quebec-cardinal-won-t-refuse-funerals-for-those-choosing-assisted-death