Archbishop Charles Scicluna called for greater investment in palliative care, underlining the importance of a dignified end of life over the anticipation of death.
Speaking on RTK103’s Għal Kulħadd this morning, the Archbishop addressed the ongoing debate surrounding ‘assisted dying,’ currently under discussion in the UK Parliament.
The Archbishop explained that the proposed law would permit individuals in challenging circumstances to opt for an early death with assistance, often bypassing the option of palliative care. “This approach settles for death rather than investing in care,” he said, urging a focus on ensuring dignity in the final stages of life.
Religious leaders and many experts have voiced their concerns over such legislation, advocating for a shift towards improving end-of-life care. Archbishop Scicluna reiterated their shared stance: “We need to invest in a dignified end of life, not in anticipating death.”
Speaking on the programme, Kenneth Delia, CEO of Hospice Malta, described the organisation’s mission as fostering hope for patients and their families. “Our aim is to protect life, ensuring patients live as well as possible until the end,” Delia said. He highlighted Hospice Malta’s commitment to easing patients’ journeys through medical, emotional, and spiritual support — the cornerstones of palliative care.
Delia also cautioned that focusing solely on death would undermine the purpose of organisations like Hospice Malta, which strive to enrich the lives of individuals facing terminal illness.
Archbishop Scicluna reflected on the Church’s role in supporting Hospice Malta, noting significant contributions made in recent years. In 2016, inspired by the Jubilee of Mercy, the Church handed over the Adelaide Cini Institute in Santa Venera to Hospice Malta, enabling the establishment of St Michael’s Hospice.
Earlier this year, the Archdiocese also donated Dar Saura in Rabat to the Malta Trust Foundation for use as a centre for children with disabilities.
The Archbishop expressed gratitude for Hospice Malta’s vital work, stating: “The Church is committed to ensuring that Hospice Malta continues to offer its invaluable services to the Maltese people, particularly those in need of palliative care.”
Archbishop Scicluna praised Hospice Malta’s mission as a “prophetic vision” that aligns with the Church’s values. He described the organisation’s work as part of a “hymn of hope” and expressed optimism for the future of St Michael’s Hospice.
As Malta approaches the Jubilee of Hope, which will be launched on Christmas Eve, the Archbishop said he hoped the residential care experience at St Michael’s Hospice would stand as a testament to the country’s commitment to compassionate and dignified end-of-life care.
Source: Newsbook.com.mt