Topic: Withdrawal of Treatment

Resources in this topic

Bioethics in Brief: Withdrawing and Refusing Treatment

Bioethics in Brief: Withdrawing and Refusing Treatment

Other Resources

April 16, 2022

Is it ever morally acceptable to withdraw or refuse life-sustaining treatment? Withdrawing or refusing life-saving or life-sustaining treatment is not a decision to be taken lightly. Human beings are created in the image and likeness of God and our lives have intrinsic value. As such, we have a general duty to preserve and defend life.

Samaritanus Bonus: on the care of persons in the critical and terminal phases of life

Samaritanus Bonus: on the care of persons in the critical and terminal phases of life

Magisterial Documents

July 14, 2020

Description The Good Samaritan who aids an injured man (Luke 10:30-37) signifies Jesus Christ who encounters human beings in need of salvation and cares for our wounds and suffering. This letter takes inspiration from the Good Samaritan to enlighten pastors and the faithful regarding their questions and uncertainties about medical care, and their spiritual and

Declaration on Euthanasia

Declaration on Euthanasia

Magisterial Documents

May 5, 1980

Description In response to questions asked by ‘a number of Episcopal Conferences’, this document sets out the Church’s teaching on euthanasia. Note the date which is prior to moves in the Netherlands for the legal toleration of euthanasia. It is in four sections: I. Human life is the basis of all human goods and all