The topic of euthanasia and assisted dying has been prominently featured in recent news discussions world wide. As Salvationists, what governs or guides our thinking in this sensitive issue? It is important for us to navigate complex issues like euthanasia and assisted suicide with clarity and compassion. As members of The Salvation Army, we hold firm to the belief that every individual, regardless of circumstance, deserves unwavering compassion and care, especially during times of suffering and at the end of life. However, we must also recognize that euthanasia and assisted suicide are not acceptable responses.
Defining Our Terms
Before delving deeper, let’s clarify the terms we’re discussing:
- Euthanasia: The intentional ending of another’s life, either with or without their consent, because it’s deemed not worth living.
- Assisted Suicide: Providing assistance or means for another person to end their own life, often involving medical professionals.
Upholding Ethical Principles
Our stance on this issue is rooted in our core beliefs:
- Sanctity of Life: Every life is sacred, regardless of its circumstances, and deserves utmost respect.
- Refusal of Treatment: Choosing to refuse or terminate medical treatment is not considered suicide.
- Supportive Care: Providing care to alleviate pain and suffering is commendable, even if it may inadvertently shorten life.
Practical Guidance for Action
As members of The Salvation Army, here’s how we can practically respond:
- Communicate Worth and Love: Ensure that those who are suffering know they are valued and loved, and will not be abandoned.
- Promote Quality End-of-Life Care: Advocate for access to comprehensive palliative care that prioritizes pain control and comfort.
- Support the Community: Extend support to families, caregivers, and communities impacted by end-of-life situations.
- Encourage Spiritual Preparation: Encourage individuals to prepare spiritually for death and communicate their wishes to loved ones.
- Guard Against Pressure: Be vigilant against any pressures that might lead vulnerable individuals to make decisions against their true desires.
- Decision-Making in Collaboration: Ensure that decisions regarding end-of-life care involve the individual, healthcare professionals, and loved ones.
- Empower Substitute Decision Makers: When necessary, empower those who know the individual well to make decisions on their behalf.
As Salvationists, let us remember that our faith calls us to uphold the sanctity of life and to provide compassionate care to all, especially during difficult times. By adhering to these principles and practical steps, we can honour our commitment to valuing and nurturing every life until its natural end.
The Salvation Army’s International Positional Statement on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide can be found at: https://s3.amazonaws.com/cache.salvationarmy.org/41dc0810-5725-47a0-bdb6-6b466dc7066f_English+Euthanasia+and+assisted+suicide+IPS.pdf
I really appreciate the succinct, well written article: ‘Do we have the right to die?’ Thank you for handling this emotive issue both uncompromisingly and sensitively.