Proposals to introduce euthanasia have become more and more prevalent in Europe. The controversy between what some say is a human right to choose to die, and the conservative attitude towards dying is in deadlock. However, based on the biblical truth, the Pope John Paul II has sternly spoken out against euthanasia and emphasised that life deserves the highest respect regardless of its condition.

In his Message for Lent published on Friday 28th January, the love for human life has become the core theme with the title quoted from the Book of Deuteronomy, "Loving the Lord ... Means Life to You, and Length of Days".

As many pro-lifers have suggested, the legalisation of euthanasia will lead to a slippery slope in morals as people tend to choose to end their lives in the face of unbearable physical pain from sickness. In addition, many elderly or terminally-ill patients may find they are obligated to accept euthanasia so as to relieve the financial burden of their families or the society.

Regarding the first point, the Pope said, "The commandment ‘You shall not kill’ applies even in the presence of illness and when physical weakness reduces the person's ability to be self-reliant."

The Pope then highlighted the respect to the dignity of life, "The life of man is a precious gift, which we must love and defend at all of its stages."

He especially called for the respect for the elderly, "The care of the elderly, above all when they pass through difficult moments, must be of great concern to all the faithful, especially in the ecclesial communities of Western societies, where the problem is particularly present."

John Paul II believes that the elderly can carry out their role in society, as their "wisdom" and "experience" can "illuminate" the path "toward an ever more complete form of civilisation."

"It is necessary to raise the awareness in public opinion that the elderly represent, in any case, a resource to be valued," he added.

To Belgium and the Netherlands, the first two countries in Europe that have already legalised euthanasia, the Pope challenged, "What would happen if the People of God yielded to a certain current mentality that considers the elderly as almost useless when they are reduced in their capacities due to the difficulties of age or sickness?"

Bishop André-Mutien Léonard of Namur, Belgium, lamented that there is a lack of such a debate in Belgium. He urged local churches to mobilise public awareness, "People have to be educated to vote. There has to be the desire to promote a debate and form a lobby (against euthanasia)."