End-of-life issues can be profoundly challenging and even confusing. There is a lot of conflicting information out there related to the topic.
We've found that the issue must be broken into three program areas. The first is helping people to understand the fundamental bioethics and legal concepts. This helps us to understand and make decisions that align to our values. The second is understanding and executing proper advance directives, so that if there comes a time when we or a loved one are unable to make decisions on our own behalf, there is a person who has the legal authority to do so. The third is to stop efforts to normalize and legalize assisted suicide and euthanasia through the courts, legislative and administrative law changes, and even cultural institutions.
We've complied a number of resources that may be helpful to you in understanding the broader issues. One cautionary note is that we understand that while there are basic principles that have consensus among pro-life individuals, groups, and religious leaders, there are occasionally points of disagreement and areas where there is no broad consensus.
Here, however, are some resources that we recommend.
We've found that the issue must be broken into three program areas. The first is helping people to understand the fundamental bioethics and legal concepts. This helps us to understand and make decisions that align to our values. The second is understanding and executing proper advance directives, so that if there comes a time when we or a loved one are unable to make decisions on our own behalf, there is a person who has the legal authority to do so. The third is to stop efforts to normalize and legalize assisted suicide and euthanasia through the courts, legislative and administrative law changes, and even cultural institutions.
We've complied a number of resources that may be helpful to you in understanding the broader issues. One cautionary note is that we understand that while there are basic principles that have consensus among pro-life individuals, groups, and religious leaders, there are occasionally points of disagreement and areas where there is no broad consensus.
Here, however, are some resources that we recommend.
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Faithful at the End of Life is GCRTL's program designed to support individuals and families facing end-of-life decisions by providing them with faith-based guidance and resources, including health care directives that conform to pro-life values. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual care, ethical decision-making, and community support to ensure that end-of-life experiences are handled with dignity and respect according to Christian values.
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National Catholic Bioethics Center provides information and ethical consultations on a number of ethics issues, including brain death, organ donation, and vaccines. They can also provide ethics consultations on complex issues.
The NCBC is most helpful to those whose criteria conform to the Catholic Church. |
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Euthanasia Prevention Coalition is an international organization dedicated to fostering a deep understanding of euthanasia and assisted suicide, and advocating against the legalization of these practices. Through education, advocacy, and the promotion of caring alternatives, the coalition seeks to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure that life is valued at every stage.
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Focus on the Family is a global Christian ministry dedicated to helping families thrive through faith-based resources, counseling, and educational content. The organization provides guidance on various aspects of family life, including parenting, marriage, and faith, aiming to promote values that nurture and strengthen family bonds.
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USCCB End of Life: The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) offers an end-of-life program that guides Catholics through the moral and spiritual considerations involved in making decisions about end-of-life. It emphasizes the dignity of every person, advocating for compassionate care that aligns with Catholic teaching ethical medical practices. See also the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Healthcare in English and Spanish.
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