A federal judge decided this week that orders of nuns do not have to comply with a local state law in recommending medically assisted suicide to patients while the legal case is ongoing. This comes after four Catholic nuns and several Catholic healthcare ministries challenged New York’s recent law. The law mandates healthcare providers to assist terminally ill patients in ending their lives, which contradicts Catholic teachings.
Mark Rienzi, president of Becket and the lead attorney for the healthcare ministries, expressed concern over the implications of the law. He stated, “Forcing Catholic nuns to participate in suicide and depriving New Yorkers of faithful, life-affirming care is both unlawful and unjust.” The federal court’s decision allows the sisters to continue their work without being compelled under the new mandate. The court blocked the law before its implementation on August 5.
The urgency of the situation is highlighted by a press release from the law firm. The release outlines the potential consequences: “Beginning August 5, any healthcare provider refusing to prescribe suicide pills could still need to inform terminally ill patients about their ‘right’ to suicide, assist them in meeting the requirements to obtain the pills, and direct them to a willing provider.” It also mentions the risks of refusing, which include fines, loss of license, or imprisonment.
Mother Mary Rose Heery, O. Carm., from the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, emphasized their dedication to providing tender, dignified care: “Families trust us with their loved ones because they know our homes will offer tenderness and faithful care. We are grateful to continue honoring this trust until the end.” Sister Justyna Owsiejko, O.S.B., of the Missionary Sisters of St. Benedict, also underscored the sanctuary their homes provide: “Elderly people can spend their final days surrounded by peace, prayer, and love, assured that assisted suicide will not infiltrate their refuge.”
Bishop John O. Barres of the Diocese of Rockville Centre praised the agreement as a step toward protecting religious freedom. He stated, “New York cannot force the Church into using suicide as a response to suffering, nor can it abandon the sick when they most need care.” Until the conclusion of the legal battle, this agreement allows them to serve their patients in alignment with Gospel teachings.
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