October 5, 2024 – Cooperator Workshop

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 presentation offers valuable insights into population trends, life expectancy, causes of death in Canada, and the importance of planning for the end of life. It covers illness trajectories, goals of care, treatment options, and key considerations for end-of-life planning.

The session also introduces resources for further exploration, including the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Horizons of Hope toolkit on palliative care. Additionally, it addresses the growing role of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in Canada, distinguishing between euthanasia and assisted suicide, and clarifies the Catholic Church’s stance as outlined in the Vatican Letter Samaritanus Bonus.

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
10:15amConfession Available
10:45amMass
11:30am“Dying in Canada”
This presentation offers valuable insights into population trends, life expectancy, causes of death in Canada, and the importance of planning for the end of life. It covers illness trajectories, goals of care, treatment options, and key considerations for end-of-life planning. The session also introduces resources for further exploration, including the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Horizons of Hope toolkit on palliative care. Additionally, it addresses the growing role of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in Canada, distinguishing between euthanasia and assisted suicide, and clarifies the Catholic Church’s stance as outlined in the Vatican Letter Samaritanus Bonus.
12:45pmPizza & Social
2:00pmDepart

Location
Glenwood, 4050 Osler Street, Vancouver (Google Map)

Please Register Below

Note: Please RSVP by midnight on Thursday, October 3rd so that we can plan accordingly.