The Irish Bishops’ Pastoral Letter on End-of-Life Care
As the debate surrounding assisted dying continues to unfold in Ireland, the Bishops of Ireland have released a powerful pastoral letter titled “Freedom to Live Fully, Until Death Comes”. This statement is a guide for people of faith and goodwill who seek to protect and support human life with dignity in end-of-life situations, particularly during the last weeks of terminal illness.
Published at the end of June 2024, the pastoral letter addresses the national dialogue following the Irish parliament’s consideration of legislation that would allow for assisted dying in certain circumstances. The Bishops’ Council for Life, chaired by Bishop Kevin Doran of Elphin Diocese, is leading the charge in advocating for compassionate end-of-life care.
Accompanying the written statement is a 35-minute video titled “Through the Valley”, featuring personal stories and reflections from terminally ill individuals, their families, and healthcare professionals. This medium aims to capture the human side of these issues and demonstrate that even in the face of terminal illness, one can find richness and fullness of life.
Promoting Dignity and Compassionate Care
The pastoral letter emphasizes the infinite dignity of every human person and the importance of providing holistic care that attends to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals facing end-of-life challenges. It advocates for a “freedom to live” with the support of a compassionate community that respects human dignity and upholds the sanctity of life.
Rejecting Assisted Suicide
The Bishops unequivocally denounce assisted suicide as a violation of human dignity and a threat to the fabric of society. They stress that offering support and care, rather than facilitating death, is the proper response to those experiencing terminal illness. By legislating for assisted suicide or euthanasia, the State risks eroding trust in healthcare professionals and undermining the confidence of the terminally ill.
Standing Firm for Life
In light of potential legislative changes, Bishop Doran warns that accepting the principle of deliberately ending a person’s life sets a dangerous precedent that could endanger the most vulnerable members of society. The Bishops call on Catholics to support healthcare professionals who uphold the sanctity of life and resist pressures to participate in acts that contradict their moral values.
For a deeper insight into the Bishops’ perspective on end-of-life care, you can listen to the interview with Bishop Kevin Doran of Elphin Diocese in Ireland here.
