This living will has been composed with Catholic moral teaching in mind. There is a printable version here. Check with your attorney for additional considerations based on your jurisdiction and circumstances.
As a faithful Catholic, I believe in the sanctity and dignity of every human life, created in the image and likeness of God. Life is a gift to be reverenced and preserved with care, not ended prematurely by omission or commission. This document is a declaration of my desire to uphold those teachings—even in times of serious illness or incapacity—entrusting my life and death to God’s providence.
I. Declaration
If I become incapacitated and unable to make my own medical decisions, I make this directive to guide my loved ones and medical providers. I ask that all decisions regarding my health care be made in accordance with the moral teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
II. Core Principles
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Sanctity of Life
My life is a sacred gift and should not be intentionally ended through euthanasia or assisted suicide, which I reject as gravely immoral. -
Proportionate vs. Disproportionate Means
I do not wish to receive treatments that are excessively burdensome, experimental, or without hope of benefit. These may be morally declined in accordance with Church teaching. -
Obligation to Provide Nutrition and Hydration
I insist that I be provided ordinary means of care, including food and water (even if by artificial means), unless they no longer achieve their purpose or become excessively burdensome with no benefit. -
Pain Relief