People are in shock and go into automatic pilot. He observed that the best decisions about the end of life aren't made in these situations. Instead, families need to have conversation on what they want done if this happens. Even with documents, not every family member is able to carry out wishes. Her or his decisions should take others into account and be made in supportive consultation with family members, close friends, pastor, and health care professionals.
Congregations can offer opportunities for conversation and deliberation about the end of life.
The end of life is not just a matter of decisions. This bigger picture is a spiritual one having to do with the meaning of a person's suffering, the way in which the dying person is listened to, respected, and accompanied, and the person's faith in God. You may also wish to consult a new study resource called Working Report on Lutherans and Physician Assisted Suicide in Oregon.