Sunday 7 November 2021 marks the harrowing day when state-sanctioned assisted suicide and euthanasia law will come into force in New Zealand.
We believe that it is vitally important for the church to offer prayerful witness and solidarity with the vulnerable on this day, especially as it coincides with the traditional Christian day of worship – when we gather together to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ and the saving power of HIs life over death.
We are calling this day of prayer the ‘End of Life Prayer Day’, and it will take place in churches all over New Zealand.
We have two Scriptures that set the theme for this important day. The first is Proverbs 24:11-12 - which reminds us of our calling to intercede and act for those “being led away to death”.
The second is Psalm 23 – which reminds us of God’s constant and loving care, even when we find ourselves in the ‘shadow of the valley of death’. It is no coincidence that we have chosen a Psalm that is so commonly recited at Christian funeral services.
Our hope is that you will join with us, and other Christian churches all over New Zealand, on Sunday 7th November by praying especially for these issues. And that you might also consider preaching a sermon or other special message that touches on these important matters on that day.
Here is a list of specific prayer intentions that you could include in your service:
For the dying. That they would turn to Jesus in repentance before their passing, and in doing so experience the profound peace and joy of a death in the arms of Christ.
For the vulnerable who are put in danger by legalised euthanasia and assisted suicide. That they would be surrounded by caring family members, health professionals and others who would protect and encourage them away from euthanasia and assisted suicide.
For the disability community in New Zealand. That they would know strong advocates who articulate the unique and often overlooked needs of disabled people in our country. And that God will richly bless all those individuals and organisations who do such important care and advocacy work in this space.
For healthcare professionals and hospice workers who are on the frontlines of end of life care. That they would be strengthened with supernatural grace and zeal in their important working of caring for the dying, and that their freedom of conscience to reject euthanasia and assisted suicide would be respected and protected.
For the Christian church in New Zealand. That she would be a welcoming safe harbour of authentic community for the elderly, suffering, sick and dying - which would shield them from the dangers of falling victim to either legalised euthanasia and assisted suicide, or neglect, loneliness and isolation.
For New Zealand Christians. That we would become ever more attentive to the needs of those in our churches, families and neighbourhoods who are struggling with illness, isolation or a fear of suffering and death.
For the success of Voice for Life’s new #DefendNZ initiative. That its practical outreach efforts would reach all in need. And that the important amendments it is proposing the New Zealand euthanasia law would be successful at protecting more and more people from euthanasia and assisted suicide.
(Details to be released soon)
For the people of New Zealand. That the saving Blood of Christ would protect our nation against the spirit of death and despair which motivates legalised euthanasia and assisted suicide. May we be strengthened and renewed with supernatural hope.
If you have any further enquiries about this national day of prayer then please reach out to us. We would also love to hear from you so that can send you resources that may be of help to you and so that we know where prayer is happening. Please email kate@voiceforlife.org.nz to let us know.
Yours in the service of the culture of life,
Kate Cormack
National President of Voice for Life NZ