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One of the most beautiful teachings of the Catholic Church is that human persons are to be loved, valued and protected throughout their entire lifespan, from conception until natural death.
"Human life must be respected because it is sacred. From its beginning human life involves the creative action of God and it remains forever in a special relationship with the Creator, who is its sole end. It is not lawful for anyone directly to destroy an innocent human being. This is gravely contrary to the dignity of the person and the holiness of the Creator. 'Do not slay the innocent and the righteous' (Exodus 23:7)." (Compendium #466)
Living in a secularized society like contemporary Canada, we Catholics are challenged to be a daily witness to the dignity and beauty of life in the face of attacks on human life such as abortion, euthanasia, reproductive technologies, and embryonic stem cell research.
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Beginning of Life Issues
According to the Compendium of the Catechism (#472), "The inalienable right to life of every human individual from the first moment of conception is a constitutive element of civil society and its legislation. When the State does not place its power at the service of the rights of all and in particular of the more vulnerable, including unborn children, the very foundations of a State based on law are undermined."
As Catholics, we are called to joyfully witness to the greatness and dignity of each unique human life, while also battling in the culture and political sphere to build up a Culture of Life. Below are some examples of excellent resources and local activities for parishioners of Sacred Heart. -
End of life issues
As we read in the Compendium of the Catechism (#478), "The dying have a right to live the last moments of their earthly lives with dignity and, above all, to be sustained with prayer and the sacraments that prepare them to meet the living God. Therefore, "direct euthanasia, which consists in putting an end to the life of the handicapped, the sick, or those near death by an act or by the omission of a required medical action (including MAID) is always contrary to the 5th Commandment." (Compendium #470)
Because of recent changes in Canadian legislation, end-of-life issues have become a key area for gospel witness, prayer and Christian action. Below are some helpful resources for parishioners related to these issues.- Medical Aid in Dying - A Catholic Response (Diocese of Calgary)
- Covenant Care
- Catholic Healthcare Facilities in the Diocese of Calgary
- National Catholic Campaign for Palliative and Home Care: Against Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide
- Call for Conscience Rights Campaign
- Euthanasia Prevention Coalition of Canada
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Prayer for the Protection of Human Life
Heavenly Father,
Lord and Maker of all that is good, fill our hearts with joy before the wonders of your creation. Open our eyes to the presence of your beloved Son Jesus in all those we encounter and especially in the weakest and most vulnerable among us.
Where we see life threatened at its beginning or at its end, or by poverty and deprivation, inspire us with love and mercy, so that, empowered by your Holy Spirit, we may work together to defend human dignity.
Help us to build a culture of life: a culture in which each and every personis loved and valued as your child, from conception to natural death, and in every circumstance of life. Amen.
Mary, Mother of the living, pray for us!
(From the Catholic Organization for Life and Family.)