Advanced Directives &
"Living Wills"
"The making of a 'Living Will' presupposes that we know what kind of medical treatments we will want to use or avoid in the future. It speaks about treatments before we even know the disease; it turns a future option into a present decision.
Not every medical treatment is always obligatory. But to figure out which treatments are obligatory, morally speaking, and which are only optional, one must know the medical facts of the case. These facts are then examined in the light of the moral principles involved. But to try to make that decision in advance is to act without all the necessary information. Moreover, to make that decision legally binding by means of a formal document is really putting the cart before the horse. It is not morally justified. Living Wills are both unnecessary and dangerous."
Resources
The Will to Live, NOT Living Will,
Article by Father Frank Pavone, president of Priests for Life.
National Association of Pro-Life Nurses Says Living Wills Are Not the Answer
Form Advanced Directive for Texas Catholics*
Form Medical Power of Attorney for Texas Catholics*
*These forms were created by the St. Thomas More Society of the Diocese of Dallas (the Catholic lawyer’s guild) at the request of former Bishop of Dallas, Most Reverend Kevin Farrell. They are designed for Texas Catholics and were approved by Bishop Farrell for use in the Diocese of Dallas. The Catholic Pro-Life Community is not offering a legal opinion or advice as to the use or content of these forms. Should you have any questions regarding these forms, please contact .*