August 1, 2007
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ –
The Catholic Bishops of Colorado have prepared a Catholic Healthcare Directive and accompanying reflections to help clarify Catholic teaching on the reality of suffering and confusion that can accompany the process of dying and the respect and dignity that every human life is entitled to.
Modern medicine has made tremendous progress in allowing us to live longer and healthier lives. But with the progression of modern medicine also comes many challenges about what means we will use to sustain our lives or the lives of those we love. These challenges and decisions concerning end-of-life care will be faced by many families in our dioceses.
Although it is not a legal requirement that you designate a health care agent to act on your behalf in times of serious illness or imminent death, we strongly urge you to complete the necessary forms to ensure that your medical treatment decisions are known.
The Church has always remained steadfast in her foundational teaching that every human life is a gift from God and made in His image. This gift is the foundation for all His other gifts. Therefore, the Church offers moral principles to guide our decision-making process during times of serious illness and imminent death.
We hope that this document will serve as a resource and guide for all who are involved in the process of making end-of-life health care decisions for themselves and their loved ones.
In Christ,
+Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
Archbishop of Denver
+Most Reverend Arthur N. Tafoya, D.D
Bishop of Pueblo
+Most Reverend Michael J. Sheridan, S.T.D.
Bishop of Colorado Springs
