We oppose the legalization of physician-assisted death, which would allow the private killing of one person by another. Public control and regulation of such actions would be extremely difficult, if not impossible. The potential for abuse, especially of people who are most vulnerable, would be substantially increased. Caring treatment that allows death to occur within the bounds of what is morally acceptable may help reduce the appeal of physician-assisted death. Hospice care offers promise of more humane treatment at the end of life.
Advance directives are welcome means to foster responsible decisions at the end of life.
Yet people are often overwhelmed and frightened when thinking about medical treatment and legal possibilities, and therefore do not take steps to prepare for the end of their lives. People recognize their rights as patients but at the same time feel unprepared to take on the responsibility. Pastors can help people to deal with their fears and hopes. Congregations can offer opportunities for conversation and deliberation about the end of life. They can invite hospital chaplains, hospice care-givers, social workers, attorneys or others knowledgeable about advance directives to help them consider the topic's many dimensions.