One Voice for Public Policy: Life in Focus Film Festival
You’re Invited! Life in Focus
What is physician-assisted suicide? What would it mean for Minnesota to legalize it? How can Christians participate in the public debate around this issue, and how might we respond to the legalization of this practice? All these questions deserve our thoughtful consideration and our deep, fervent prayers for the protection of innocent life.
As part of my responsibilities as Public Policy Advocate, I sit on the board of the MN Alliance of Ethical Healthcare on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. This organization seeks not only to oppose physician-assisted suicide but also to build a culture that champions human dignity and life. This year, we have been working to broaden our coalition, bring this difficult topic into the open, and find ways to get Minnesotans involved and thinking deeply about it.
To that end, the Minnesota Districts of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod are proud to partner with the MN Alliance of Ethical Healthcare for the Life in Focus Film Festival. This full-day event will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Coffman Memorial Union Theater at the University of Minnesota. The festival features four feature-length documentaries alongside a series of short films exploring human dignity, disability rights, and what it means to provide real, compassionate care at the end of life.
Between screenings, filmmaker interviews, expert panels, and facilitated conversations will create space to reflect on the hard questions surrounding physician-assisted suicide. The event is open to all ages, with snacks and refreshments provided throughout the day. While this event is an excellent opportunity for your church’s Life Team to attend together, we are hopeful it will appeal to both young and old alike. If you cannot join us for the full day, I strongly encourage you to attend at least one or two sessions to witness these powerful stories and participate in the discussions.
Tickets and registration details are available online through the MN Alliance of Ethical Healthcare website, where you can also view the full schedule of film titles and panel speakers. Please consider sharing this invitation with your pastors, congregation members, and neighbors.
Ultimately, the goal is to leave this festival equipped not just with information, but with a renewed commitment to speak boldly. By understanding the legislative realities facing Minnesota and learning how to articulate a defense for the vulnerable, we can better care for those facing terminal diagnoses and end-of-life decisions.
Saturday, November 7, 2026
9:00 am – 5:00 pm (doors open at 8:30 am)
Coffman Memorial Union Theater, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
Ticket price: $15
Reserve your spot today — space is limited: Register here!
Life in Focus Film Festival Flyer
In Christ,
Rev. Scot Missling
Public Policy Advocate, MN Districts
Pastor, Bethlehem Lutheran Church
pastorstpaullcms@gmail.com
651-776-4737
