USCCB resources for November, National Hospice and Palliative Care Month

In 2020, the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith released the letter Samaritanus bonus (The Good Samaritan), “on the care of persons in the critical and terminal phases of life.” It explains Church teaching on care for the seriously ill or dying and includes pastoral guidance for end-of-life decisions. The USCCB article, “The Witness of the Good Samaritan: Palliative Care and Hospice” summarizes the document’s key points.

The article begins: “The ultimate foundation of human dignity lies in the reality that God became man to save us and call us into communion with him. The Good Samaritan, who goes out of his way to aid an injured man, symbolizes Jesus, who encounters humanity in need of salvation and cares for our wounds and sufferings. Despite our best efforts, it can sometimes be difficult to recognize the profound value of human life when we see its full weakness and fragility. Yet, the faithful care of human life until its natural end is entrusted to every person.

“In the face of challenges that affect the very way we think about medicine, the significance of the care of the sick, and our social responsibility toward the most vulnerable, the Church reminds us of our obligation to readily accompany those in the critical and terminal stages of life, for all are called to give witness at the side of the sick person. Sadly, the request for death through euthanasia or assisted suicide is often a symptom of disease, aggravated by isolation and discomfort. Care for life is therefore the first responsibility in our encounter with those who are sick. This responsibility exists not only when health may be restored, but even when a cure is impossible. Only human warmth and evangelical fraternity can reveal a positive horizon of support to the sick person in hope and confident trust.”

To read the full article visit www.usccb.org/resources/samaritanus-bonus-witness-good-samaritan.pdf.

Access additional resources at usccb.org/prolife/catholic-care-sick-and-dying.