The Church of Scotland is re-examining its long-held opposition to assisted dying following a significant vote in the Scottish Parliament that backed legalizing assisted dying for terminally ill adults. This marks a notable shift in the church’s position on a deeply sensitive and divisive issue.
Holyrood’s vote came after nearly five hours of intense debate, with 70 MSPs supporting the general principles of the Bill and 56 opposing. However, the Bill still faces two further parliamentary stages before it can become law, and the Church’s final stance will be revealed at the upcoming General Assembly.
A Historic Shift in Church Views
Traditionally, the Church of Scotland has opposed assisted dying and euthanasia. But after two years of careful study and reflection on the ethical, spiritual, theological, and practical aspects, the church’s Assisted Dying Working Group now says its position is “under review.”
Rev Dr John Ferguson, Convener of the group, acknowledged the deep feelings stirred by the Holyrood vote. “This position is under review,” he said, stressing the church’s commitment to continue advocating for strong safeguards and enhanced palliative care support.
The church is trying to balance respect for differing views within its community. Rev Ferguson emphasized that while the church does not stand neutral, it seeks to engage openly and respectfully with all perspectives, listening carefully to the voices on all sides of this complex issue.
Safeguards and Support: Church’s Focus Moving Forward
The Church of Scotland is urging thorough parliamentary scrutiny of the Bill as it progresses, highlighting concerns about eligibility criteria, safeguards, and social care provisions.
Rev Ferguson made clear that the church wants MSPs to focus on ensuring robust protections, particularly for vulnerable people who might be impacted by changes to the law.
“It will be for the General Assembly to decide how we respond, especially considering the Parliament’s recent vote,” he said. This upcoming decision is expected to clarify how the Church positions itself in light of Scotland’s evolving legal landscape.
Mixed Reactions From Christian Groups and Society
The vote has drawn varied reactions across Scotland’s religious and social sectors.
Stuart Weir, head of CARE for Scotland, a Christian social policy charity, expressed profound disappointment. “I am deeply saddened by the outcome,” he said, underscoring the concerns many share about potential moral and societal consequences.
Others, however, view the vote as a progressive step that respects individual choice for those facing terminal illness, highlighting the importance of personal dignity and compassion.
The Church’s pending report and the General Assembly’s decision will be closely watched, as this could influence wider public opinion and shape Scotland’s moral and legal frameworks on assisted dying.
What Lies Ahead: The Bill’s Journey Through Parliament
Despite the parliamentary vote in favour of the Bill’s general principles, the path to full legalization remains uncertain. Two further legislative stages lie ahead, including detailed consideration of the Bill’s provisions.
During these stages, MSPs will debate critical issues like eligibility rules, consent processes, and the establishment of safeguards to protect vulnerable people from potential abuse or coercion.
The Church of Scotland has pledged to maintain a dialogue with lawmakers, advocating for these protections while reflecting on its evolving position.
This ongoing conversation reflects a broader societal reckoning with end-of-life choices, where ethical, spiritual, and practical concerns intersect.
