Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned medically assisted dying, describing it as immoral and warning against what he termed "false compassion" towards people living with serious illnesses. The Pope made these remarks during a Mass at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France, a major Catholic pilgrimage site. He emphasized that the dignity of the human person must be protected and that causing death under the guise of compassion is not justifiable.
The Pope's remarks came on the third day of his visit to France, where the debate over assisted dying has intensified following legislation allowing adults with incurable illnesses to receive lethal medication. Leo has repeatedly called for the protection of human life during his visit, in line with Catholic teaching opposing abortion, euthanasia, and medically assisted dying. His visit to Lourdes drew large crowds, including many people living with disabilities and serious illnesses.
During his homily, Leo told those experiencing severe suffering that their condition does not diminish their dignity. He emphasized that their crutches, wheelchairs, and hidden tears are not obstacles but rather the very place where they are fully respected and welcomed. The Pope also highlighted Lourdes as a place for professing the beauty and sanctity of life, welcoming life as a precious gift from God.
Lourdes became a major pilgrimage destination after the Catholic Church recognized visions of the Virgin Mary reported by a young girl in 1858. The site attracts millions of pilgrims each year, including sick and disabled believers seeking healing. The Church has recognized 72 cures at Lourdes as miraculous. Leo's visit also focused on the Catholic Church's handling of sexual abuse cases in France.
The Pope was scheduled to meet seven survivors of clergy sexual abuse later on Sunday, including one person who was abused as an adult. The French Catholic Church has faced extensive scrutiny over its handling of abuse, with an independent report published in 2021 estimating that about 330,000 children had been abused over seven decades by priests and other church workers.
During a meeting with French bishops on Sunday morning, Leo praised their response to survivors and urged them to continue their efforts. He also acknowledged the impact of the abuse scandal on priestly vocations, saying the priesthood is sometimes viewed with suspicion. The Pope emphasized that for priestly vocations to flourish, the priest must be welcomed, accepted, and loved.
Before the Pope arrived in France, a group of abuse survivors published an open letter calling on him to acknowledge the Church's responsibility in the scandal. The survivors also criticized a system in which bishops can serve as both spiritual leaders and judges in cases involving priests accused of abuse. The Pope's visit and meetings aimed to address these concerns and provide support to survivors.
Key points
- Pope Leo XIV condemns medically assisted dying as immoral.
- The Pope emphasizes the sanctity of human life and dignity.
- Leo's visit to France addresses the Church's handling of sexual abuse cases.
