by The Most Reverend John C. Nienstedt

Bishop of New Ulm

Normally bishops do not comment on events taking place in other dioceses, presuming that the local bishop is addressing his own pastoral situations. This is certainly true with the present case of Terri Schiavo in Florida where the bishops of that State have addressed the immorality of removing her feeding tube.

Yet, this case has gained national exposure and, in a real way, presents us with a defining moment for either accepting or rejecting euthanasia as a national practice. In that context, I raise my voice in the defense of Terri’s life.

Let the record state clearly that Terri Schiavo is not dying. She is not in a coma. She is not even on a respirator, but breathing on her own. She is dependent, like you and me, on food and water to survive. In her case, however, that is being provided artificially through a feeding tube.

Removing that tube is a death sentence which this woman does not deserve. Morally, it is not a matter of “letting her die,” it rather involves an act intended to kill her.

It is hard to imagine a civil society permitting this action legally to happen. I urge her husband, at present her legal guardian, to transfer his responsibility for Terri to her mother and father. I further pray that we as a nation will not go down this slippery slope that will lead to the legalization of involuntary euthanasia.