桃花视频

The 桃花视频 and the Pontifical Academy for Life, in collaboration with other partners, organized an International Interfaith Symposium on Palliative Care titled 鈥淭owards a Narrative of Hope,鈥� which took place in Toronto on 21-23 May 2024. The goal was to build a strong advocacy network in Canada and internationally and, together, develop a strategic framework for future action.

In a written message, Pope Francis warmly encouraged the participants to persevere in their commitment to promoting palliative care, which is an expression of compassion and respect for the infinite dignity of every person. [See the Pope鈥檚 Message below.]

With over 110 participants from diverse backgrounds from across Canada and internationally, presentations explored educating and promoting a culture of social responsibility in palliative care. Experts in ethics, medicine, healthcare, policy, law, communication, and pastoral care deliberated on the challenges and successes of effective strategies to relieve suffering during illness and dying and ways to provide appropriate human accompaniment to improve patients鈥� and their families鈥� quality of life and well-being. An interfaith panel featuring different religious and cultural perspectives, including an Indigenous perspective, highlighted the importance of faith and culture in supporting the needs of the sick and dying and alleviating their physical, spiritual, and emotional suffering.

A Post-Symposium Working Group gathered insights throughout the Symposium. The Working Group published a post-symposium statement and recommendations, opening a path forward for future action. [See the Working Group Statement below.]

The CCCB gratefully acknowledges all those who contributed to the Symposium, including the many Sponsors, the Symposium Planning Committee and Scientific Board members, the Post-Symposium Working Group of academic experts, and all those who continue to advocate for compassionate care for the sick, suffering and dying.

Video: International Interfaith Symposium Highlights