Does the Catholic Church require the use of all available technology to preserve life?
The Church does not promote vitalism (preserving physical life at all costs) but rather asks us to embrace the virtues of fidelity (faithfulness to those in need), compassion (suffering with those who are suffering), and individual dignity. Food and water whether by mouth or by artificial means are considered obligatory unless a person is imminently dying. However, the use of other technology may be optional depending on whether the means (treatments) are “ordinary” or “extraordinary.
