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End of Life Care

- “Dying is one of the most important moments in our lives. Like all important moments, it deserves thoughtful preparation.”
  - Father Lawrence Reilly, Ethicist and Theologian
- Expressing your end-of-life choices clearly and officially for your family and health care staff.
  Many of us have experienced serious illness or journeyed with a family member, loved one, or friend during serious illness and eventual death. We know first-hand the anxiety, anguish, and sense of loss that mark this journey — as well as some treasured moments of grace.
  
  All adults should have an advanced health care directive.
  - Catholic Health Association of the United States (CHA)
  
  Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith 2020 released the letter “Samaritanus bonus” on the care of persons in the critical and terminal phases of life.
  
  Download the document Here!
- Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith 2020 released the letter “Samaritanus bonus” on the care of persons in the critical and terminal phases of life.
  
  Download the document Here!
- Advance Healthcare Directives
  Download the Archdiocese of Los Angeles Advance Healthcare Directive and share with your parishioners and family members. This legal document helps everyone know your healthcare wishes. Make copies for your loved ones and your doctor, and keep one with you.
  English (PDF) \\ Spanish (PDF)
  
  For urgent bioethical questions call the National Catholic Bioethics Center at 215-877-2660
  
  Share Flyers on End of Life Care at Your Parish
  
  Frequently Asked Questions About End of Life-CCC (English/Spanish)
  
  End of Life Issues: A Pastoral Resource from The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington (English/Spanish)
  
  Comfort and Consolation: Care of the Sick and Dying (A Pastoral Letter from the Catholic Bishops of Maryland) (English)
  
  CCC ‘What the Catholic Church Teaches About the End of Life’ (English)
  
  Embracing Our Dying ‘General Information about Hospice’ (English)
  
  Embracing Our Dying ‘ End of Life Decisions: A Pastoral Guide’ (English)
  
  USCCB Ethical & Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care’ (English)
  
  Palliative Care vs. Hospice Care (English)
- Other Resources
  
  Organize a Blessing of the Sick .
- For I was sick, and you visited me. When did we do this, Lord? Every time you did it for the least ones, for a suffering brother or sister, you did it for me
  (Mt 25: 31-46)
- To be connected to a Care Minister or would like to become a Care Minister, please contact Jeanette Seneviratne at 213-637-7646 or [email protected]