Pope: Love, not Euthanasia!

Speaking on the Day for Life being observed in Italy, the Pontiff commented on the theme chosen by the Italian episcopal conference: "The Strength of Life in Suffering."

VATICAN CITY (Zenit) - Ending a person's life is "false" solution to the problem of suffering, and one not worthy of human dignity, says Benedict XVI.

After praying the Angelus today with those gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Pope said that euthanasia is often a big temptation when one is suffering, but it's not the answer. The answer, he said, is love.

Speaking on the Day for Life being observed in Italy, the Pontiff commented on the theme chosen by the Italian episcopal conference: "The Strength of Life in Suffering."

"I wholeheartedly join in their message in which we see the love of pastors for their people, and the courage to proclaim the truth, the courage to state with clarity, for example, that euthanasia is a false solution to the drama of suffering, a solution unworthy of man," he said.

The Holy Father said the answer isn't putting a person out of their misery, however "kindly" they do it, "but to bear witness to the love that helps us to face pain and agony in a human way."

"We are certain," Benedict XVI affirmed, "no tear, whether it be of those who suffer or those who stand by them, goes unnoticed before God."

The Pope entrusted those who are suffering and their caretakers to the Virgin Mary, who "carried in her mother's heart the Son's secret, she shared in the painful moments of the passion and crucifixion, sustained by the hope of the resurrection."