THE EFC UPDATE - 2016.08.30
Uniting Evangelicals to bless Canada in the name of Jesus
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HOW TO HELP PEOPLE WHO ARE SUFFERING: A PRACTICAL EFC WEBINAR
Now that physician-assisted death is legal, Christians have yet one more reason to reach out with hope and comfort and come alongside those who are suffering. Join us for a free EFC webinar on Sept. 28 to explore how we can help, and learn from, those who are hurting. We’ll be joined by Doug Koop, a spiritual health practitioner and writer from Winnipeg, and by David Guretzki, a theology professor and seminary dean at Briercrest College & Seminary in Caronport, Sask. Register now.
PRAY FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM
The EFC invites supporters to pray for the British Columbia Court of Appeal, as it deliberates an important decision in the legal battle over Trinity Western University’s proposed law school. The EFC intervened with Christian Higher Education Canada to support religious freedom. The case was heard in June and a decision is expected shortly.
CALL TO PROTECT CONSCIENCE
Doctors in Ontario are required to provide a referral for assisted death, even if it goes against their deeply-held beliefs. Long-term care facilities and seniors’ residences may be required to allow euthanasia and assisted suicide on their premises. Ontario residents can contact their MPP and provincial Minister of Health to urge conscience protection. See the EFC’s sample letter for ideas on wording.
WILL MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS REALLY BE REQUIRED TO KILL?
In most places around the world where assisted suicide or euthanasia are legal, medical professionals are not required to participate. Yet there is strong resistance to providing this basic conscience protection in Canada. Why? EFC President Bruce J. Clemenger considers the issue in the Jul/Aug issue of Faith Today, Canada’s Christian magazine. Read his column and browse the entire issue.
LAST DAY! SUBCRIBE AND GET A FREE COLOURING DEVO
Tomorrow is the last day to subscribe or give a gift subscription to Faith Today, Canada’s Christian magazine, if you want to also get a free copy of Restore My Soul: A Coloring Book Devotional Journey. Get details online or by calling 1-866-302-3362. Each issue of Faith Today also comes with an issue of our youth magazine, Love Is Moving, at no extra cost. Act now!
COMING EVENTS AT THEEFC.CA/CALENDAR
→ Quantum Physics and Christianity, Ottawa, Aug. 30
→ Quantum Physics and Christianity, Montreal, Aug. 31
→ Thriving Church Conference, Sussex, N.B., Sept. 1-2
→ Kickstart Discipleship Seminar with Torben Søndergaard, Moncton, Sept. 2-5
→ Jesus, Life and World Religions (RZIM), Vancouver, Sept. 6-7
→ National Christian Home Educators Leadership Conference, Niagara Falls, Sept. 8-10
→ Survey of the Old Testament Diploma Course (8 Monday evenings), Toronto, starts Sept. 19
→ MCC Festival for World Relief, Abbotsford, Sept. 18-20
Add your upcoming event for free.
IN ONTARIO, P.E.I. AND NOVA SCOTIA
Don McNiven, the EFC’s director of affiliate and donor relations, will be visiting in Ontario, P.E.I. and Nova Scotia this fall. He’d be delighted to visit with supporters to discuss the programs of the EFC and current research initiatives. Email him or call 416-902-9110.
SUPPORTING THE EFC DURING A POSTAL STRIKE
The EFC depends on the generosity of our donors to keep the momentum going strong. In the event of a postal strike, supporters wishing to make a gift are encouraged to donate online or to call the EFC toll-free at 1-866-302-3362. Or consider becoming an EFC Partner in Faith by enrolling in our pre-authorized monthly giving plan.
STORIES OF YOUTH AT YOUR CHURCH
Are youth or young adults in your church involved in mission trips, service projects or worship events this summer? The EFC youth magazine Love is Moving is looking to highlight more stories about youth putting God’s love into action. Share what your young leaders, teachers and artists are doing to help build God’s Kingdom at info@loveismoving.ca.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
→ Dr. Michael Koke of Kitchener, Ont., says a good death can be beautiful, but he has major concerns about Canada’s legalization of physician-assisted suicide and the need for education about palliative care. More in the EFC newsletter Canada Watch
→ The Ktunaxa Nations Case involves important issues of religious freedom in Canada. The EFC and the Christian Legal Fellowship have together applied to the Supreme Court of Canada for intervener status.