The Judeo-Christian moral tradition celebrates life as the gift of a loving God, and respects the life of each human being because each is made in the image and likeness of God. As Christians we also believe we are redeemed by Christ and called to share eternal life with Him. The Catholic tradition has articulated a distinctive approach to fostering and sustaining human life. The Church views life as a sacred trust, a gift over which we are given stewardship and not absolute dominion. The following are a summary of basic moral principles.
Human life has a special value and significance.
Life is the first right of the human person. There is no moral obligation to use medical procedures that offer no hope of benefit. Yet many patients, families, and health care professionals find it difficult to withhold futile treatment or to withdraw it once it has begun. Suffering is a fact of life. Suffering has special significance for the Christian as an opportunity to share in Christ's redemptive suffering.