CoR Gathers Members and Colleagues to Oppose Assisted Dying Bill

CoR members and colleagues meet via Zoom to discuss opposition to the Assisted Dying Bill

Following the Conference of Religious England and Wales (CoR) AGM 2025, where over 70 leaders of religious congregations gathered and expressed a united stance against the Assisted Dying Bill, members have continued to come together in shared discernment and solidarity.

Today, CoR members met for an online forum to continue the conversation around this pressing issue. In a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration, the meeting was also open to lay colleagues. The invitation was extended to members, those they live and work with, and their wider networks, recognising that the Assisted Dying Bill, if passed, would have significant implications not only for Religious but also for those they work with and care for. 

Coming together in this way offered a valuable space to share concerns, reflect on developments, and explore how religious and lay partners can use their collective voice most effectively in the public arena.

The forum allowed participants to deepen their understanding of the current legislative context and to discuss practical ways to advocate for a culture that upholds the dignity and value of life at every stage. It also provided an opportunity to strengthen bonds between congregations supporting one another in prayer, action, and public witness.

This ongoing engagement reflects the commitment of CoR members and their colleagues to standing together on matters of moral and social concern. As the national conversation around assisted dying continues, the voices of religious women and men—and their lay partners—remain united in affirming life and compassionate care over legislative change.

Looking ahead, congregations are continuing to write to their MPs and to raise awareness within their communities. Many also plan to attend a peaceful protest in London on 20th June, organised by Christian Concern. Further details are available on the CoR website. Recognising that not everyone will be able to travel to the capital, others are encouraged to take a stand wherever they are in the country, through prayer, local witness, or symbolic acts of solidarity at the same time as the London event.

CoR will continue to facilitate opportunities for members and their colleagues to meet, reflect, and act together on this and other critical issues. The regular online Care Forum, being held on 25th June 2025, will offer a follow-up opportunity to consider the outcome of the debate and potential vote in Parliament on 20th June.

Updated Invitation to Join Protest Opposing the Assisted Dying Bill – 20 June 2025

All Catholic communities are invited to join an interfaith protest against the Assisted Dying Bill, now taking place on Friday, 20 June 2025.

This change follows confirmation that the Third Reading of the Bill is scheduled for the same day. The protest has been rescheduled to ensure maximum visibility and impact.

Date: Friday, 20 June 2025 (updated from 13 June) Time: From 8:30am to 3:00pm Location: Old Palace Yard, by the statue of George V, SW1P 3JY

This peaceful demonstration brings together people of all faiths in a united stand for the protection and sanctity of life. The Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS) will be present, with CEO Melissa Andrews and members of her team in attendance.

All members of religious communities are warmly encouraged to attend and show visible support.

While not mandatory, registering your intention to attend will help organisers with planning and logistics.

You can sign up here: 👉 Register via Eventbrite – Stand Against Assisted Suicide

Even if you’re unsure now, you are welcome to attend on the day without prior registration.

This is a vital opportunity to stand together and raise a collective voice in opposition to the Assisted Dying Bill.