Posted on 09/16/2008 5:51:57 AM PDT by Publius804
Pope delivers anti-euthanasia message at Lourdes
The Associated Press
LOURDES, France | People must accept death at “the hour chosen by God,” Pope Benedict XVI told ailing pilgrims Monday in an anti-euthanasia message at Lourdes, the shrine that draws the desperate, sick and dying.
At the chilly open-air service outside the sanctuary reputed for its curative spring water, some faithful lay on gurneys, tucked into quilts and comforters. The 81-year-old pontiff administered the sacrament of the sick to 10 people, most in wheelchairs, anointing their foreheads and palms with oil.
While several European countries permit euthanasia, the Vatican vehemently maintains that life must continue to its natural end.
(Excerpt) Read more at kansascity.com ...
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.