Even if the motive is good Roman Catholics believe, that it is wrong to take away someone’s life. The Roman Catholics say that there is a need for “ a positive understanding of the mystery of suffering.” John Paul 2nd. This means that the Roman Catholics believe that suffering will bring you closer to God as it helps you to share in the suffering of Christ.
Many other Christian denominations believe in the hospice movement. This is when nuns or nurses look after people that are dying, until their dying day. The hospices offer care for the ill patients and care for their grieving families. They also give medicine in order to make their life and death as pain free as possible.
The majority of hospices are run and funded by Christian based charities. These charities help set up these hospices so that people no longer had to continue suffering.
350-600 Words
Skill AO2
‘Faced with the issues abortion and euthanasia, explain the different ways Christians might respond.’
An abortion is a deliberate termination or ending of a pregnancy.
Euthanasia is the pain less killing to relieve someone from suffering.
There have been many debates about whether abortion and euthanasia are wrong and should be legalised. The majority of Christians are against abortion, as they feel this is murder. “Thou shall not murder.” Exodus 20: 1-7. Ten Commandments. There are only very few situations in which a Christian will find it acceptable to terminate a pregnancy, such as:
- The mother being raped.
- Disability of the baby
- Risk of endangering the mother's health.
Some Christians accept abortion as they feel that a woman is not morally required to suffer for nine months while carrying child.
They also believe that life doesn't begin until the baby is born, however this contrast with most other Christians as they still feel that life begins at contraception. Most Christians would suggest alternatives to abortion such as:
Roman Catholics have very strict views against euthanasia. They believe that every human life is made “in the image of God” Genesis 1:27
Although most Christians are not in favour of euthanasia, they do not share the same views as the Roman Catholics.
Many Christians believe that it is murder and that it makes your assistant an accessory to your murder.
Some say that terminally ill patients who desire death are in the wrong frame of mind to decide as they are depressed and depression is now treatable. Some Christians also believe that although it is a more difficult solution it is also a more humane solution to address human suffering head on.
In my opinion the main argument against euthanasia has to be that due to modern medicine pain is now controllable, therefore no one should have to kill himself or herself in order to relieve suffering.
However some Christians such as the Methodists agree with euthanasia. The Methodist Church is in the process of considering the existence of a living will. This is an individual will, which will allow a suffering, terminally ill person to die, and that they would only receive pain-relieving treatment. At this present time the living wills have no legal status in Britain.
In conclusion I feel that all Christians no matter what their beliefs they should adopt the theory of ‘Christian Love', as different situations may need different responses. They should show forgiveness and compassion and not be as quick to condemn others.
“Love thy neighbour as thyself”. Matthew 22:40
250 - 375 Words
Skill AO3
‘What Christians believe about life is up to them, they should not try to make others accept their position’ do you agree?
I feel that everyone has the right to express his or her opinion. As it is up to us whether we listen or adopt their views, also I feel that Christians are only trying to give us the opportunity to learn and understand the life and religion of another person.
I personally feel that Christian should express their views and opinions, however I would prefer this to be done in a subtle way, rather than having Christians insisting that my views are wrong and that I should be converted.
Although I am not a practising Christian I enjoy learning about the ways in which different Christians live their lives. I am intrigued and admire Christians who can adopt the view in the bible to their everyday lives.
However I understand that some people can get offended or upset with the Christian views and the way in which they are presented. Some people would prefer to hear the ethics of Christians in a debate were the are free to look at both sides of the spectrum before making a decision.
For example: a Christian charity member regularly visits our school. He is always willing to give advice or have a debate about any Christian ethics. He is liked and respected through out the school as a result. He helps us to reach our own opinion.
I have also noticed when talking to people that have been through emotional experiences, they can sometimes feel slightly angry towards Christians. They feel bombarded by people preaching to them on the streets about sensitive issues, which they might not have had any first hand experience with. This is especially apparent when faced with the issues of death and euthanasia.
I feel that we now live in a world of free speech therefore I believe that Christians or any members from other religions should be free to express their own view and believe.