The Catholic response to euthanasia can be found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church that defines euthanasia as “an act or omission in which, of itself or by intention, causes the death of the handicapped, sick, or dying persons- sometimes with an attempt to justify the acts as a means of eliminating suffering.”
Euthanasia, through the viewpoint of Catholicism, is considered a form of murder and thus is forbidden by the fifth commandment “you shall not kill”. It is found to be a critical offense against the dignity of the human person and also against God, the creator of human life. Likewise, the Church affirms the right to life of all persons, from birth to natural death, and believes that how we experience our own mortality is a “pivotal moment in our pilgrimage of faith” ( ccc no. 1501). Meaning, how we approach death is of utmost importance to the individual and the society.
The Evangelium Vitae explores many different cultural factors that have contributed to the spread of Euthanasia. Pope John Paul || claims that today’s society can no longer face nor accept the suffering we experience, therefore the temptation to eradicate all suffering is increasingly becoming a more accessible option for many. In addition to this, the Pope also highlights other factors, such as man’s desire to control life …show more content…
The reinforcing stories found within the Bible does not teach us mere fatalism or resignation, but elicits faith in God and trust in his mercy and promises. Jesus is another example in how we should trust God in life and death. Through dying on the cross for our salvation, Jesus reveals the life-giving value of suffering. His sacrifices and sufferings redeemed the whole world and as Catholics, the Church instructs us to follow his example and bear our own suffering, as our actions and suffering has salvific value when united with Christ’s
Euthanasia, through the viewpoint of Catholicism, is considered a form of murder and thus is forbidden by the fifth commandment “you shall not kill”. It is found to be a critical offense against the dignity of the human person and also against God, the creator of human life. Likewise, the Church affirms the right to life of all persons, from birth to natural death, and believes that how we experience our own mortality is a “pivotal moment in our pilgrimage of faith” ( ccc no. 1501). Meaning, how we approach death is of utmost importance to the individual and the society.
The Evangelium Vitae explores many different cultural factors that have contributed to the spread of Euthanasia. Pope John Paul || claims that today’s society can no longer face nor accept the suffering we experience, therefore the temptation to eradicate all suffering is increasingly becoming a more accessible option for many. In addition to this, the Pope also highlights other factors, such as man’s desire to control life …show more content…
The reinforcing stories found within the Bible does not teach us mere fatalism or resignation, but elicits faith in God and trust in his mercy and promises. Jesus is another example in how we should trust God in life and death. Through dying on the cross for our salvation, Jesus reveals the life-giving value of suffering. His sacrifices and sufferings redeemed the whole world and as Catholics, the Church instructs us to follow his example and bear our own suffering, as our actions and suffering has salvific value when united with Christ’s