The Elderly and the Sanctity of Life The Sanctity of Life is the Christian belief that life is sacred and created by God. This belief affects the way Christians think about life and death issues.
A Greek word meaning “Easy death” There are two types of euthanasia: Passive and Active. Active euthanasia is illegal in the U.K but legal in the Netherlands. EXIT have campaigned for voluntary euthanasia to be made legal in Britain from 1935. What is euthanasia? “Voluntary” euthanasia (Diane Pretty) “Non voluntary” euthanasia (Tony Bland) Double Effect – This is when by taking drugs to ease your pain there is a risk of premature death All Christians believe life is sacred Hospices should be able to care for the terminally ill Life is a gift from God The Catholic Church Refuses to accept Active Euthanasia. The Catholic Church view this as murder. Refuses to accept Active Euthanasia. The Catholic Church view this as murder. Accepts Double Effect as spiritually acceptable Life is a gift from God. Only he should take it away. “I chose you before you were born” “Thou shall not kill” The Church Of England Is not comfortable with active euthanasia. Many Christians worry about the legalisation of euthanasia. There is much disagreement amongst all Christian faith groups. There is no general consensus.