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CORNWALL, October 21, 2009 (LifeSiteNews.com) – The role of bishops in life issues was the focus of much of the afternoon of the fourth day of the Plenary Assembly of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB). 

Referring to the recent debate on euthanasia and assisted suicide, as well as other life issues, London Bishop Ronald Fabbro noted the importance of being pro-active in framing the questions. “If Bishops don't step up,” he said, “others will who may present a distorted view of the Church's teaching. We need to inform our people on the foundations of our faith.”

Presenting on life issues to the Assembly were two former members of the Board of Directors of the Catholic Organization for Life and Family (COLF):  Bishop Fabbro, and retired Archbishop Bertrand Blanchet of Rimouski.

In his presentation, Archbishop Blanchet noted the tensions and difficulties that have emerged among individuals and groups involved in defending the right to life from conception to natural death. He stressed the importance being united in thought and action, and proposed a dialogue involving all parties in the pro-life movement. Such a dialogue, he said, would help lessen difficulties within the movement and also help establish common ground.