Laws aimed at providing “death with dignity” and internet influencers promising to extend life unnaturally are actually two sides of the same coin: In both circumstances, humans usurp a role intended for God.
Death and Dying
Posted inOf Many Things, Politics & Society
The False Compassion behind the U.K.’s Assisted Suicide Law
A proposed assisted-suicide law in Britain does not serve compassion. Instead it presents an illusion of final autonomy.
Posted inFaith, Faith in Focus
What do Catholics really believe about purgatory?
If heaven is like a wedding banquet, then purgatory may be understood as preparation for a great celebration. It is not a dreary waiting room at the D.M.V., but a place of lively hope.
Posted inFaith, The Good Word
Why it’s hard for modern Christians to understand All Souls’ Day
A Homily for the Solemnity of All Souls, by Father Terrance Klein
Posted inFaith, Faith in Focus
Three books about death to read before you die
My plan was not to read three books in a row about death. But I just did.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
‘A Ghost Story’ reminds us how difficult it is to let go
Ghost stories speak to how deeply we love, but also to a desire to prolong our lives however we can.
Posted inFaith, Short Take
Gratitude, sorrow, suffering and mercy: R.I.P. Greg Hillis
Greg Hillis, who died on the morning of Oct. 8, leaves behind a large and diverse community of family and friends all over the world. For so many of us, he was a true friend in the Lord.
Posted inPolitics & Society, Your Take
‘Brain death’ and organ donation as culture war issues
In response to an article in our June issue, several physicians and ethicists say there are serious questions about the accuracy of determining brain death under the current criteria.
Posted inArts & Culture, Books
What Pope Francis and Ivan Illich prioritize in common: Anti-clericalism, the Global South and the cry of the poor
Ivan Illich was a “radically orthodox” monsignor who remained tradition-minded his entire life. With Pope Francis, his hour may have finally arrived.
Posted inFaith, Short Take
How parishes can help Catholics prepare for death
The parish can be a nexus for sharing hopes and fears about the last stage of life. Clarifying Catholic teaching about medical technologies and care at the end of life would be another helpful step.