The making of a “Living Will” presupposes that we know what kind of medical treatments we will want to use or avoid in the future. It speaks about treatments before we even know the disease; it turns a future option into a present decision.
Not every medical treatment is always obligatory. But to figure out which treatments are obligatory, morally speaking, and which are only optional, one must know the medical facts of the case. These facts are then examined in the light of the moral principles involved. But to try to make that decision in advance is to act without all the necessary information. Moreover, to make that decision legally binding by means of a formal document is really putting the cart before the horse. It is not morally justified. Living Wills are both unnecessary and dangerous.” -Father Frank Pavone
- Form: Advanced Directive for Texas Catholics*
- Form: Medical Power of Attorney for Texas Catholics*
- The Will to Live, NOT Living Will, Father Frank Pavone
- The Will to Life Project, National Right to Life Committee
- National Association of Pro-Life Nurses Says Living Wills Are Not the Answer, National Association of Pro-Life Nurses News Release, 2005
*These forms were created by the St. Thomas More Society of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas (the Catholic lawyer’s guild) at the request of Bishop Farrell. They are designed for Texas Catholics.
Please Note: None of the information, commentaries or links provided here constitute a legal opinion or advice. Please consult an attorney for assistance with any legal questions or legal documents concerning end of life issues. Should you have any questions regarding these forms, please contact Ellen Dorn at President@stmsdallas.org.