The 'End' of Life: Guidance for Making Moral Medical Decisions

Have you ever wondered what the Catholic Church teaches about end-of-life decisions? Are you facing serious health issues, caring for a loved one, or simply trying to prepare for the future? Holy Infant invites you to a special three-part seminar this November designed to offer faithful, compassionate guidance through some of life’s most difficult moral questions. The seminar will be presented by Dr. Lyra Pitstick. Dr.Pitstick holds a doctorate in theology (STD), as well as degrees in STEM and philosophy. She cared for her mother through multiple complex hospitalizations until her mother’s death. 

Concerns about Death? Your Own, or Someone Else’s? This is a seminar tailored for parishioners, caregivers, medical professionals, pastoral staff, and anyone who wants to understand Catholic moral teaching on end-of-life issues. Whether you’re an elderly adult, an adult child supporting aging parents, a caregiver navigating difficult choices, or a health or pastoral worker offering counsel to others, this series will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to make decisions in line with your faith.

Led by a deeply faithful and experienced Catholic educator, the sessions will cover everything from foundational Church teachings to real-world applications, always with clarity, compassion, and respect for the dignity of human life.

What to Expect:

SESSION 1 – The Foundation (November 5)

• The meaning of life and death through a Catholic lens

• How Christ transforms our suffering

• The redemptive value of suffering

• Seven common stresses on decision-making—and how to manage them

SESSION 2 – The Tools (November 12)

• The role of human freedom and conscience

• How to evaluate the morality of actions

• Questions to ask when considering or refusing medical treatments

SESSION 3 – The Applications (November 19)

• Applying moral principles to real-life scenarios

• Understanding excessive burden and the double effect

• Church teaching on issues like artificial nutrition and hydration, ventilators, pain management, hospice, organ donation, and more

Each session will run from 10:– 11:30 AM and will include time for Q&A. Participants will leave with practical insights, moral clarity, and peace of mind.

We hope you’ll join us this November as we journey together toward peace, understanding, and faithful preparation for life’s final chapter.