A respect for life involves recognition of human dignity at every stage. Catholics have a responsibility to manifest the power of redemptive suffering as we face death or serious illness. Such a witness also comes from offering our care, support, and prayers for the sick and those nearing the end of life. Issues surrounding the end of life include artificial nutrition and hydration, euthanasia/assisted suicide, organ donation, palliative care, the completion of an advanced directive, and many other topics.
Video provided by CatholicEndOfLife.org
End of life Preparation Webinar
Please find below the links to important documents from the Church about end of life issues.
Advanced Directive for Health Care
Georgia Advance Directive For Health Care In conformity with Catholic teaching.
This document is a modified version of the Georgia Advance Directive for Health Care as originally provided by the State of Georgia. This document now conforms to the teachings of the Catholic Church regarding end-of-life care.
The preparation of an Advance Directive for Health Care is a serious undertaking and should be completed after prayerful reflection and consultation with the documents on the bottom of page 1.
Please contact our office if you have any questions regarding this form.
Content Type: PDF
Last Updated: January 15, 2015
Georgia Advance Directive For Health Care In conformity with Catholic teaching.
This document is a modified version of the Georgia Advance Directive for Health Care as originally provided by the State of Georgia. This document now conforms to the teachings of the Catholic Church regarding end-of-life care.
The preparation of an Advance Directive for Health Care is a serious undertaking and should be completed after prayerful reflection and consultation with the documents on the bottom of page 1.
Please contact our office if you have any questions regarding this form.
Content Type: DOC
Last Updated: January 15, 2015
Those whose lives are diminished or weakened deserve special respect. Sick or handicapped persons should be helped to lead lives as normal as possible.” – Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2276
Church Teaching on End-of-Life Issues
- Catechism of the Catholic Church
- Euthanasia – Sections 2276-2279;
- Suicide – Sections 2280-2283
- Statement on Euthanasia, United States Bishops
- Declaration on Euthanasia – Vatican, Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith
- United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) web site
“Whatever its motives and means, direct euthanasia consists in putting an end to the lives of handicapped, sick, or dying persons. It is morally unacceptable.” – Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2277
