In this episode I address some of the issues concerning the Fifth Commandment as it applies to “end of life issues” and situations. I address euthanasia, assisted suicide, and the question of the “ordinary and extraordinary” therapeutic means that should or may be used for prolonging the life of a terminally ill patient.

  • Here you will find some ideas given by the NCBC on how to set up a "Health Care Proxy" and an "Advance Medical Directive" (scroll to the END of the document): link

  • You can find these topics in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, numbers 2276 to 2283 AND 2295 to 2301.

  • Article by the USCCB on “End of Life” issues (see chapter FIVE), https://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/health-care/upload/Ethical-Religious-Directives-Catholic-Health-Care-Services-fifth-edition-2009.pdf

  • NCBC document with a summary of “End of Life” moral principles: https://stjohns-excelsior.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/A-Catholic-Guide-to-End-of-Life-Decisions.pdf

  • Vatican Document on End of Life issues, with words of Pope Pius XII: https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20070801_nota-commento_en.html

  • Article on the “Principle of Double Effect”: https://www.catholic.com/magazine/print-edition/abortion-and-double-effect

  • Fr. Patrick Wainwright is a priest of Miles Christi, a Catholic Religious Order.

  • Visit the Miles Christi Religious Order website: https://www.mileschristi.org

  • This Podcast’s Website: www.forcollegecatholics.org

  • To learn about the Spiritual Exercises (silent weekend retreat) preached by the Priests of Miles Christi, visit: https://www.mileschristi.org/spiritual-exercises/

  • Recorded at Miles Christi “Family Center” in South Lyon, Michigan.

  • Planning, recording, editing, and publishing by Fr. Patrick Wainwright, MC.

  • Gear: SHURE MV7 USB microphone.

  • Intro music from pond5.com

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