In his message for the World Day of the Sick 2018, Archbishop Martin highlights the right to freedom of conscience for all health workers.
Life in their Hands – Message for the World Day of the Sick 2018
Archbishop Eamon Martin
In my work as a priest I have seen surgeons, doctors and nurses fighting to save life, even at its most fragile They bring their gifts and expertise without discrimination, conscious that they are not treating, say, a cancerous growth, or a dangerous virus. They are caring for a sick human being, a person with a story, family and loved ones, a living human being with potential.
I’m thinking today about those who dedicate their lives to the ministry of healing and protecting life. Even though they are often under great stress and working long, tiring hours, our hospital staff, GPs and other carers are our ambassadors for life!
I think of Jesus who devoted so much of his time to reaching out to the sick, and suffering, without distinction, so that they could have life to the full!
The debate about the eighth amendment here in Ireland is a debate about life, about life equality, the equality of two lives which matter – the life of a mother and the life of her baby. Two lives which are precious, two lives in need of love, protection and care.
It is troubling to think that our nurses, doctors, midwives and other carers may be expected by abortion legislation to use their healing hands to intentionally take innocent life, rather than to give every life a chance. It is already being suggested that even those with conscientious objections to taking life will be required to refer the task to others.
To force someone to cooperate like this in the wrong-doing of another is wrong. It undermines freedom of conscience.
You may have a carer, nurse or doctor in your family or as a friend. Pray for them today, find an opportunity to thank them and encourage them in their vital, life-giving work. But, in addition to this, be a missionary for life yourself. Speak and act now to ensure that those who have chosen to devote their lives to healing the Sick will be spared the grim tasks surrounding abortion.
Every life is beautiful, precious and sacred. Choose Life.
ENDS
(The World Day of the Sick is celebrated on 11th Feb – the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.)
Choose Life 2018
A website created by the Irish Bishop’s Conference designed to encourage discussion in families on the value of every human life.
ChooseLife2018 Newsletter Issue 1