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.

Conference of Religious AGM 2025: Religious Leaders Unite in Synodal Leadership and Oppose the Assisted Dying Bill

Over 80 leaders of religious congregations gathered last week in Northamptonshire for the 2025 Conference of Religious England and Wales (CoR) Annual General Meeting, held under the theme “Synodal Leadership – Forward Thinking – Outward Facing.” The two-day gathering featured keynote input from Sr Maria Cimperman RSCJ and included space for deep reflection, listening, and shared discernment.

Members explored priorities such as synodal leadership, increasing diversity, nurturing new leadership, and strengthening the collective voice of religious in the Church and wider society.

As part of the gathering, attendees expressed their united opposition to the Assisted Dying Bill, standing together in support of life and dignity at every stage, and exploring ways to respond collectively as people of faith.

The AGM concluded with a renewed commitment to synodality, inclusivity, and collaborative leadership—affirming the enduring value of religious life in service of Gospel witness and social justice.