Rome: Pope Francis is adamant that he will never accept euthanasia, no matter how ill. Pope reminded those working in the health care industry that there is no compromise with euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide in a terminal illness. The pope criticized euthanasia in a message to the 21st World sick day. If one is not able to heal, it is through good words and behavior that will bring relief, the pope said.
Life is sacred and belongs to God. Therefore, it is irrevocable and no one can claim to have the right to terminate life. The pope appealed to those in the medical field to be open to the noblest aspects of the ultimate meaning of their profession. Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, head of the Pontifical Academy for Life, has come out in support of Pope Francis’ strong stance against euthanasia. He urged medical professionals to flee the temptation for euthanasia.
Last October, it was reported that Papa handed out a joint declaration signed by thirty leaders of Christian, Muslim and Jewish religions opposing euthanasia and supporting palliative care. The joint declaration came to fruition when Pope Francis handed over the project to the Pontifical Academy for Life.
