This book provides a marvelous combination of background information and profoundly wise insight. It is lucidly written, accessible to anyone concerned about decision-making in a clinical context, but also useful for teachers, scholars, pastoral ministers, and medical professionals. Catholic individuals and families will welcome its careful mapping of the tradition as well as its compassionate consideration of current concrete questions. Those who are not Roman Catholic can also find important information and thought-provoking perspectives. Here is a book to build wisdom and love as we companion loved ones, or struggle with our own decisions, in the face of dying and death.
Margaret A. Farley, Gilbert L. Stark Professor of Christian Ethics, Yale University Divinity School Last Rights is a very well-written and useful book for those who find themselves in the difficult position of having to make end-of-life decisions for their loved ones. Dr. Christie uses the best of the Catholic tradition to examine contemporary problems and she provides excellent guidance on what is a very difficult journey.
Thomas A. Shannon, Attorney-at-Law and executive director emeritus of the National School Boards Association This is a remarkable book! It is rare to find, under one cover, a clear and engaging explanation of the Catholic approach to complex and emotionally difficult end-of-life decisions, a familiarity with clinical reality, pastoral sensitivity, and the insight and wisdom gained from years of reflection. Those seeking a better understanding of the Catholic perspective on end-of-life issues, as well as those struggling to make decisions about such issues, should find this book extraordinarily helpful.
Ron Hamel, senior director of ethics, The Catholic Health Association of the United States