Dying in Canada
A Workshop for Cooperators and Friends
Join us for an important workshop hosted by the Westbrook Education Fund, featuring a talk on “Dying in Canada” by Brent Boyd. This event will be held at Glenwood on Saturday, October 5th. The talk will begin promptly at 11:30 am in the classroom downstairs. For those who would like to join us, Mass will be celebrated in Glenwood’s oratory at 10:45 am. The priest will be available for confessions starting at 10:15 am.
After the talk, enjoy a pizza lunch and the opportunity to connect with other cooperators and friends. A $10 contribution is requested to cover expenses, with an optional donation to support the apostolates of Westbrook Education Fund.
This workshop aims to provide a setting for cooperators and friends to deepen their understanding of Catholic doctrine, offering serious and focused instruction. Unlike a retreat or recollection, it is an opportunity to engage with other men who strive to live their faith well in everyday life. The goal is to build intellectual confidence in understanding and defending the faith, with sessions tailored to provide comprehensive instruction in theology and philosophy.
Brent is a retired business consultant living in Cobble Hill on Vancouver Island with his wife, Elizabeth. A father of five and grandfather of eight, he first encountered the realities of palliative care over twenty years ago when his first wife was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Later, he cared for his mother and stepfather in their final years. These deeply personal experiences have driven Brent to raise awareness and help others prepare for this challenging stage of life.
| Schedule | |
|---|---|
| 10:15am | Confession Available |
| 10:45am | Mass |
| 11:30am | “Dying in Canada” |
| This presentation provides an overview of population trends, life expectancy, and causes of death in Canada, along with the increasing role of MAiD — Medical Assistance in Dying. It considers the difference between euthanasia and assisted suicide, clarifies the Catholic Church’s position in the Vatican Letter Samaritanus Bonus, and offers insights from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Horizons of Hope toolkit on palliative care. Additional topics include illness trajectories, goals of care, treatment options, and end-of-life planning, along with resources for further exploration. | |
| 12:45pm | Pizza & Social |
| 2:00pm | Depart |
Location
Glenwood, 4050 Osler Street, Vancouver (Google Map)