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Those observing the United Kingdom’s 2025 “Day for Life” June 15 received a special message from Pope Leo XIV, who expressed his hope that their witness of accompanying those gravely ill will inspire all of society to protect life instead of undermining it.
The Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin conveyed the pontiff’s message June 2 to Archbishop John Sherrington, the lead bishop for Life Issues for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales (CBCEW). The CBCEW and the bishops of Ireland spearhead and celebrate the annual “Day for Life,” which this year was themed “Hope does not disappoint – finding meaning in suffering.”
Because 2025 has also been proclaimed the Jubilee Year of Hope, the “Day for Life” theme is especially fitting, Cardinal Parolin noted in the message.
The theme “seeks to draw people’s attention to how the mystery of suffering, so prevalent in the human condition, can be transformed by grace into an experience of the Lord’s presence,” Cardinal Parolin stated, referencing a previous address from Pope Francis, “for God is always close to those who are suffering and guides us to appreciate the deeper meaning of life, in love and closeness.”
Cardinal Parolin said that Pope Leo “sends the assurance of his spiritual closeness” to everyone who is observing the “Day for Life” and prays specifically, through the intercession of Our Lady of Good Counsel, for their witness to have a strong effect on society.
The Pope’s prayer is “that, through your common witness to the God-given dignity of every person, without exception, and to the tender Christ-like accompaniment of the seriously ill, all in society will be encouraged to defend rather than undermine a civilisation founded on authentic love and genuine compassion,” Cardinal Parolin said.
The Pope’s message comes amid a contentious time for the United Kingdom. The country may be on the verge of dramatically altering how it treats those who are gravely ill and vulnerable.
The UK Parliament is set to soon decisively vote on whether or not to legalize assisted suicide. The practice is often regarded by proponents as a means of alleviating extreme suffering and guaranteeing a dignified death for the person who is ill. Many physicians, disability advocates, and Catholic leaders have opposed the legislation from its outset, warning it would have detrimental consequences on society and the practice of medicine. Instead, these individuals and the CBCEW advocate for holistic palliative care and true accompaniment of the person by staying at his or her side through the difficulties.
Archbishop Sherrington issued a statement June 5 urging everyone to contact members of Parliament about voting against the bill and “to pray that our representatives choose to protect the most vulnerable citizens of this country when they vote later this month.”
>> UK bishops urge Catholics to oppose assisted suicide bill as crucial vote approaches <<
