Federal Court Blocks Assisted Suicide Mandate for Nuns Pending Case

A federal judge has ruled that orders of nuns will not need to assist in recommending medically assisted suicide to their patients according to local state law while their case remains in court. This decision is part of a lawsuit filed by four orders of Catholic nuns and several Catholic healthcare organizations against the state of New York. The new law posed a contradiction to their faith as it would require them to aid terminally ill patients in ending their lives.

Mark Rienzi, president of Becket and lead attorney for the Catholic healthcare organizations, commented, “Forcing Catholic nuns to participate in suicide is both unlawful and unjust.” He emphasized that the agreement protects the sisters and their patients, while they continue to challenge New York’s mandate.

Becket successfully appealed to a federal court, resulting in a delay of the law’s effect, initially slated for August 5. According to the law firm, refusal by healthcare providers to prescribe suicide pills could lead to potential fines, license revocation, or imprisonment. Despite federal protections against such mandates, the state of New York had moved forward with the legislation.

“Families entrust their loved ones to us because they know our homes will be places of tenderness, dignity, and faithful care,” said Mother Mary Rose Heery, Prioress General of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm.

Sister Justyna Owsiejko of the Missionary Sisters of St. Benedict remarked, “Our home exists so that elderly people can spend their final days surrounded by peace, prayer, and the Sisters who love them.”

Bishop John O. Barres of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY, stated, “This agreement is an important first step towards protecting religious freedom. New York cannot force the Church to answer suffering with suicide or abandon the sick and dying when they need care most.”

While the case is ongoing, this temporary agreement permits the ministries to adhere to their faith and continue serving patients. The Catholic Church leaders maintain that life is sacred and should be revered until its natural conclusion.