Participants engaged enthusiastically in dialogue about decision-making in these areas as Prof Simard was helpful in clarifying many of the church’s teachings. He pointed out the fact that our technologies are developing much more quickly than we are able to keep up with them in our ethical reflections. This produces many problems. Prof Simard challenged everyone to ponder the fact that simply because we are ABLE to do something does not necessarily mean we OUGHT to do it. He invited everyone to become more discerning about decisions, taking the time to reflect deeply about important matters. He named “busyness” as one of the major obstacles to good moral decision-making. He stressed how essential it is to take the time to get all of the facts about a situation, to examine the facts carefully and deeply in relation to church teaching and other helpful resources, and then to make a judgement that is balanced and life-giving, faithful to this discernment.

Prof. Noel Simard reflects on moral decision-making in a complex world.

Dr. Rene Leiva speaks about the "In Support of Life" project.

He expressed his worry that many people come to well-intended moral conclusions that are misguided and not life-giving because they do not have enough information, have not examined the issue deeply enough, and have not taken time for the reflection that is required.

The session ended with a joint presentation by Dr. Rene Leiva, a palliative care specialist and Mrs. Carol Kuzmochka, adult faith development co-ordinator for the English sector of the diocese about a new project the Archbishop has asked to have initiated in the English sector of the archdiocese in the Fall of 2005 called, “In Support of Life”. This will provide an opportunity for people to engage in some very good and needed reflection about challenging end of life issues. More information on this project will be forth- coming.