“You knit me together in my mother's womb… I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Human life is sacred because from its beginning it involves God's creative action and remains in a special relationship with Him. God alone is the Lord of life. Saint John Paul II called this message the Gospel of Life.
Science shows that a new human life, with its own unique DNA, begins at conception. The Church teaches that this life must be respected and protected as a person from that first moment, so abortion, which directly ends an innocent human life, is gravely wrong. The Church also surrounds mothers in difficult situations with practical help, and offers mercy and healing to anyone who has been involved in an abortion.
At the end of life, euthanasia and assisted suicide, intentionally ending a life to end suffering, are never acceptable. But the Church does not require every possible treatment: a person may refuse treatment that is overly burdensome or out of proportion to the expected result. Good palliative care, which relieves pain, and the loving presence of family give true dignity in dying.
The Church also teaches that the death penalty is inadmissible, because it attacks the dignity of the person, which is never lost, even by someone who has committed very serious crimes. Pope Francis revised the Catechism in 2018 to say this, building on the teaching of Saint John Paul II. Society can be protected and justice served in other ways.
Peace is part of the Gospel of Life too. War must be avoided by every possible means. The Church's just war tradition sets strict conditions for when defense by force can be legitimate, and even then civilians must never be targeted. Christians are called to be peacemakers in their homes, schools and nations.
Respect for life includes our own lives and health: caring for our bodies, avoiding drug abuse and reckless risks, and asking for help in times of despair. If you or a friend ever think about suicide, tell a trusted adult or call a crisis line right away. Your life is a gift, you are loved, and there is always hope.