| Home | Documents | The Day For Life | Themes | Articles | Links | Contact Us |
I propose that a Day for Life be celebrated each year in every country, as already established by some Episcopal Conferences. The celebration of this Day should be planned and carried out with the active participation of all sectors of the local Church. Its primary purpose should be to foster in individual consciences, in families, in the Church and in civil society a recognition of the meaning and value of human life at every stage and in every condition. Particular attention should be drawn to the seriousness of abortion and euthanasia, without neglecting other aspects of life which from time to time deserve to be given careful consideration, as occasion and circumstances demand.
In the year 2001, the Irish Bishops' Conference responded to this proposal by including an annual Day for Life in the calendar of the Irish church. Each year, the Bishops propose to mark the Day for Life with a pastoral letter. The full texts of the pastoral letters which have been issued to date can be accessed by clicking on the links below.
This is the first in the series. It reflects on the challenge of "choosing life" in our contemporary culture.
This letter reflects on how we can best respond to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of people who are dying. It explores the ethical issues raised by euthanasia.