Earlier on this January, the MSSP Oratory Youths hosted yet another successful Bible & Beer event, drawing a diverse and engaged audience of young adults eager to discuss one of the most profound and challenging topics of our time: Life and Death – Church and Ethics. The event, held in a relaxed setting, provided a safe space where attendees could explore deep ethical, theological, and emotional questions surrounding end-of-life issues, guided by a panel of esteemed experts.
This session saw the participation of three distinguished panelists: Dr Jürgen Abela, a Principal GP with the Ministry for Health and a dedicated expert in Community Palliative Care; Mgr Prof. Emmanuel Agius, former Dean of the Faculty of Theology at the University of Malta and a leading authority in bioethics and moral theology; and Dr David Cassar, a highly experienced Consultant Psychiatrist with a deep commitment to patient support and mental health advocacy. Their insights sparked a thought-provoking discussion that engaged the audience in a meaningful reflection on the ethical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of end-of-life decisions.
Dr Abela began by exploring the medical and ethical aspects of euthanasia, assisted suicide, and palliative care. He addressed the complexities surrounding suffering, explaining that it is not just physical but also deeply psychological, social, and spiritual. Palliative care, he emphasised, does not simply seek to extend life but to provide holistic support that affirms the dignity of the individual. “Don’t let me suffer” is a plea he often hears, yet he stressed that true compassion lies in alleviating suffering, not in hastening death. His reflections challenged attendees to consider the deeper meaning of life, identity, and suffering, especially in the face of terminal illness.
Dr Cassar brought the discussion into the realm of mental health, offering a profound insight into the experience of suicidal individuals. “Someone who ends their life is not weak,” he stated firmly. “They are suffering immensely.” He spoke of the deep pain that leads individuals to consider suicide, describing it as a psychological storm that engulfs their sense of hope. Many in the audience found his words particularly striking, as he emphasised that those struggling with suicidal thoughts are often overwhelmed by emotional distress rather than a lack of strength. He urged those present to practice unconditional love and accompaniment, stating, “Even if I don’t agree with the decision, because I love that person, I accept them.” The reflections resonated deeply, prompting one participant to share a realisation about the profound impact of suffering on identity and a renewed commitment to supporting those in pain.
Mgr Prof. Agius then offered a theological perspective, reflecting on the inherent value of human life as a sacred gift. He reminded attendees that while modern society often prioritises quality of life, we must not lose sight of the spiritual meaning that can be found in all circumstances, even in suffering. He spoke about the tension between the desire to prolong life and the acceptance of death as a natural part of existence, stressing that life should be cherished, but not idolised. “We must not live in the clouds nor be pessimistic,” he urged, calling for a balanced approach that values life while also recognising the dignity of a peaceful passing. His insights sparked an engaging discussion about how individualism and the loss of deeper purpose have contributed to a diminished appreciation for the sanctity of life.
The evening fostered an atmosphere of open dialogue and sincere reflection, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to explore a sensitive topic with honesty and depth. Participants appreciated the perspective that the Church seeks to understand, accompany, and offer hope rather than simply condemn. Insights shared during the discussion challenged preconceived notions, particularly on the strength of those facing suicidal thoughts, leading to a deeper understanding. The event created a space where difficult questions could be approached with compassion, bridging faith, ethics, and real-life experiences.
This Bible & Beer session once again proved to be a vital platform for young adults to wrestle with difficult yet essential topics. As the MSSP Oratory Youths continue to create these spaces for open discussion, they reaffirm their commitment to forming a community where faith and reason walk hand in hand.
This event was partially sponsored by APS Bank and held at Vecchia Napoli, Salini. We are grateful for their support in making this gathering possible.
The next Bible & Beer session will take place on the 26th of June and will explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI. Those interested are encouraged to follow our socials for further details.