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
Instrucciones para completar las Directivas anticipadas de atención médica de Georgia
Las Directivas anticipadas de atención médica de Georgia es un documento proporcionado por el estado de Georgia que le permite hacer ciertas designaciones y ofrecer instrucciones con respecto a su atención médica, particularmente en el caso de que usted no pueda o no quiera tomar decisiones por sí mismo en cierto momento.
Content Type: PDF
Last Updated: July 16, 2024
Instructions for Completing the Georgia Advance Directive for Healthcare
The Georgia Advance Directive for Healthcare is a document provided by the state of Georgia that allows you to make certain designations and offer instructions regarding your healthcare, particularly in the case that you are unable or unwilling to make decisions for yourself in the moment.
Content Type: PDF
Last Updated: July 15, 2024
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
