PASTOR’S CORNER
September 7, 2014
The annual Hike for Hospice is coming up in two weeks. I strongly support the Hospice movement in general and Hospice of Hamilton in particular. Hospice of Hamilton is not-for-profit in many senses. They serve many people who do not have insurance or personal resources to cover the cost of the service.
The aim of Hospice Care is to enhance the quality of life for patients in end-of-life situations. They do that not only by replacing aggressive medications, which often have terrible side effects, with medication that addresses the symptoms of the disease, but also by supporting the patient and his/her family emotionally and spiritually. Remember, medical technology is to be used in the service of life, not to try to show mastery over life. While the Church in no way supports euthanasia (ending of a human life), it also teaches that it is not necessary to undergo great suffering just to prolong the dying process by a short time.
If a family member or friend has benefited from Hospice of Hamilton I strongly encourage you to participate in the “hike” (which is actually not more than a comfortable walk). Your presence is a support. Also, I strongly encourage you to financially support the Hike by making a contribution.
On a related matter, you may have heard that the Archdiocese has raised a question about the “ice bucket challenge” in support of ALS research. What news reports do not often include is the clarification that the Church supports ALS research. It condemns research done by destroying human embryos Research done with adult stem cells is an alternative the does no harm to any human being. Get dunked with ice water and then send the contribution to:
John Paul II Medical Research Institute 540 E. Jefferson St. Suite 202 Iowa City, IA 52245
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