This week we published a short story about physician-assisted suicide and the moral debates that surround the issue. Friends of Compassion discussed the topic at its monthly meeting on Wednesday and shared many questions and reflections. Do you wrestle with this topic? We’re like to hear from you.

On a lighter note, next week is National Gonzaga Day. There’s going to be lots and lots of stuff going on around Spokane on Jan. 24, including the Spokane Community Event. From 6 to 10 p.m. at the Spokane Convention Center there will be free food, live streaming of the big games, concessions and a cash bar. Be sure to wear your Zag gear.

Next week we also celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. On Sunday there will be a Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration at Holy Temple Church from 4 to 6 p.m. and on Monday the Annual Unity March will kick off at 10 a.m., followed by a Community Resource Fair at River Park Square beginning at 2 p.m.

Whitworth University will conclude the holiday Monday at 7 p.m. with an interactive event featuring Spokane Chapter NAACP president.  According to a press release, “The final event will host keynote speaker James Wilburn Jr., president of the Spokane chapter of the NAACP. Other highlights include photo opportunities with a poster featuring Melinda Gates’ quote, “A great education is a civil right.” Students will also be reading King’s iconic I Have a Dream speech.” This will be at 7 p.m. in the Hixson Union Building’s multipurpose room.

Also happening on Monday is the Mass for Life. Bishop Blase Cupich, of the Catholic Diocese of Spokane, will celebrate the Mass to honor, “God’s great gift of life, with prayers for life at all stages and in all conditions." It will also commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision. This will be held at noon at Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral.

Be sure to check Spokane Faith & Values next week for coverage of some of these happenings!