Join us for A Respect Life gathering hosted by the Diocese of Rockford- Life and Family Evangelization Office.

Navigating Legal Physician-Assisted Suicide: Nurturing Hope is a conference open to all the faithful and anyone interested in the meaning, ramifications, and ethics of legal physician-assisted suicide in Illinois.

Learn about:

• The Illinois law and the legal challenges to the law

• Catholic teachings on assisted suicide

• Making end-of-life decisions in line with the Church's teachings

• Accompanying the dying and those with grave illnesses

Pray that:

• Suicide prevention efforts reach those considering suicide

• Those who are dying receive the care that respects and protects their lives

Dr. Amanda Ramirez, DPT will be speaking on A Hope-Filled Vision for End-of-Life Care Rooted in Catholic Teaching | Care, Accompaniment, and Respect for Life.

Come learn about a hope-filled vision for end-of-life care rooted in Catholic teaching. This presentation emphasizes the inherent dignity of the human person and the call to care for and accompany those facing serious illness, suffering, and death. It will distinguish physician-assisted suicide from morally appropriate end-of-life decisions, including the discernment of proportionate and disproportionate treatments and the appropriate use of pain and symptom management. Current palliative and hospice care practices will be considered through a Catholic bioethical lens, including how compassionate care can alleviate suffering while respecting the dignity of human life. Together, these principles offer a framework for navigating difficult end-of-life decisions with clarity, compassion, accompaniment, and hope.

Register by September 14 by visiting:

https://life.rockforddiocese.org/2026-respect-life-gathering/