The Use and Non-use of Life Support Systems and/or Treatment Termination-When? Ever? Under What Circumstances?

Abstract

Rev. Robert D. Bushaw’s 1982 pastoral essay explores the ethical and theological complexities surrounding life support systems and treatment termination. Drawing from Scripture, medical ethics, and personal pastoral experience, Bushaw examines the moral dilemmas families and caregivers face when death is imminent. He presents arguments both for and against discontinuing treatment, emphasizing that rigid rules are inadequate and each case must be evaluated individually. Bushaw advocates for “benevolent crisis acquiescence”—a compassionate approach that allows death to occur naturally without hastening it or prolonging suffering unnecessarily. He affirms that life is a gift from God, and only God has the authority to end it. The essay concludes with pastoral guidance for respecting life, accepting death, and supporting families in faith. Bushaw’s work encourages thoughtful, Christ-centered decision-making in end-of-life care, balancing medical realities with spiritual truths. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)