"The sanctity of life is not about doing everything possible to stay alive for as long as possible regardless of whether there is any real benefit or regardless of how severe the burden may be for the individual, their family, or society. Rather, the sanctity of life is about recognising that all life, all of creation is sacred because it is the foundation, the necessary condition of all meaningful and purposeful endeavour,” the Queensland bishops wrote.
"People need assistance - not to end their lives but at the end of their lives - in ways that they feel fully recognise their autonomy and dignity,” the bishops wrote.
In February 2021, an Australian university found that the country has less than half the number of palliative care physicians needed to care for terminally-ill patients.
A study published by Australian Catholic University's PM Glynn Institute revealed that the country only has fewer than one palliative care doctor per every 100,000 people. According to the university, health industry standards state there should be at least two doctors for this population.
The Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith's September 2020 letter Samaritanus bonus reaffirmed the Church's perennial teaching on the sinfulness of euthanasia and assisted suicide. The congregation recalled the obligation of Catholics to accompany the sick and dying through prayer, physical presence, and the sacraments.
Samaritanus bonus also addressed the pastoral care of Catholics who request euthanasia or assisted suicide. The letter explained that a priest and others should avoid any active or passive gesture which might signal approval for the action, including remaining with the patient until the act is performed.
Jonah McKeown is a staff writer and podcast producer for Catholic News Agency. He holds a Master’s Degree from the University of Missouri School of Journalism and has worked as a writer, as a producer for public radio, and as a videographer. He is based in St. Louis.