A CULTURE OF
LIFE
Euthanasia/Suicide
"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." CCC#2277 "Suicide
is always as morally objectionable as murder." GL #66
Suicide
and euthanasia are always, in all circumstances, wrong and a grave matter. We
are often torn by the sufferings of those we love and are tempted to think that
so called "mercy killing" is a loving act. Yet, as John Paul II
states: "Even when not motivated by
a selfish refusal to be burdened with the life of someone who is suffering,
euthanasia must be called a false mercy, and indeed a disturbing 'perversion' of
mercy." GL #66 Clarity is
needed here in our definition of euthanasia.
It is the direct taking of a life for reasons of sickness or disability.
Care of the sick is an obligation of all and must not become a matter of
judging life by arbitrary standards such as "quality of life." In the
case of the terminally ill, it is not necessary to use extraordinary means to
prolong life. Ordinary care, such as nourishment
and hydration, must always be provided, but invasive procedures, or so called
aggressive medical treatments, can be refused. Even the administration of pain
killers that may possibly hasten death can be administered if the intention is
not to cause death but to reduce suffering. End of life issues are complex and
often distorted by emotion. To decide,
the case of the terminally ill or someone who is being kept alive by artificial
means, to discontinue these aggressive measures, so long as nourishment and
hydration is continued, is in keeping the dignity of human life. "To forgo extraordinary or
disproportionate means is not the equivalent of suicide or euthanasia; it
rather expresses acceptance of the human condition in the face of death." GL#65
"Everyone is responsible for his
life before God who has given it to him. It is God who remains the sovereign
Master of Life. We are obliged to accept life gratefully and preserve it for
his honor and the salvation of our souls. We are stewards, not owners, of the
life God has entrusted to us. It is not ours to dispose of." CCC#2280
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