The basic positions on the ethics of euthanasia prepared by the Bioethics Committee of the Church of Greece and approved by the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece

The Bioethics Committee of the Church of Greece, after examining thoroughly and diligently the relevant bioethical issues from a theological, legal and medical aspect drew up an official document on euthanasia comprising of 54 basic articles which was approved by the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece in November 2002.

This document analyses in detail the issue of euthanasia. Its aim is not to restrict the faithful’s freedom within the limits of specific guidelines; but rather to contribute to the profound and detailed understanding of the various problems arising from euthanasia, which will, in turn, lead them to more responsible and mature decision-making.

Moreover, although the document has been approved by the Holy Synod, it has not been distributed yet officially to the clergy or the faithful. It is not a text of indisputable ecclesiastical word but its publication aims at initiating discussion on the issue of euthanasia. The text is explicit, provides guidance to people, embraces man as an image of God and constitutes a witness of the Orthodox Christian ethos.

Ethics of euthanasia.pdf