Euthanasia: Religious Leader Interview
Joie McBride
Grand Canyon University

Euthanasia: Religious Leader Interview
A Catholic Priest was interviewed and thoughts were gathered on the topic of euthanasia. Having served as a Priest for ten years, he has had the opportunity to work with several different individuals and families assisting them with their spiritual journey. This paper will discuss his view on euthanasia as well as his personal worldview and philosophy.
When questioned about his worldview and beliefs he responded by saying that he is a spiritual, reverent, and faithful individual who believes in the blessed Holy Trinity; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He believes he is guided by the divine power of God on a daily basis and takes his calling very seriously. He believes in being honest and genuine and feels that his commitment to God and his fellowmen is what drives him.
When asked about his thoughts on futile treatment he stated that futile treatment can be denied by a person. He stated that by forgoing futile treatment an individual displays acceptance of the illness as well as the end result of the illness. He feels that health care providers have the responsibility to provide treatments that are effective and necessary. He feels that an individual and their family should make their wishes known and all options should be discussed regarding the treatment plan. He stated that providers should weigh the benefits and burdens of treatment and discuss those with the individual and their family. He believes that futile treatment can be detrimental if it serves no benefit. He stated that the avoidance of futile treatment saves an individual, family, and community from excessive expense.
His stance on voluntary/assisted euthanasia is based on his Catholic upbringing and views. He is against all forms of euthanasia stating that it is the same as murder, and is never acceptable under any circumstance. He stated that human life is to be valued and no one has the right to end their life or the life of others. He stated euthanasia is considered a rejection of God’s sovereignty and loving plan.
His response to his beliefs on the afterlife of an individual who chooses euthanasia is also based on his religion. He stated that it is difficult to imagine a life without the presence of God. While the Roman Catholic Church believes in hell, it leaves it to God to decide which souls will reside there. He stated that the response of the church to someone who partakes in the act of euthanasia is one of pity. The same goes for someone who assists a person in taking their