Monday, September 28, 2026 - Pope Leo XIV has condemned medically assisted dying as “false compassion” during his visit to Lourdes, France, where he addressed thousands of sick and disabled pilgrims.
Speaking on Sunday, September 27, the Pope said human dignity should not be diminished by illness, suffering or age, and argued that causing death should not be treated as normal. His remarks came as France moved forward with legislation allowing some adults with incurable illnesses to receive life-ending medication.
Addressing the sick community at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Pope Leo urged healthcare workers to focus on caring for suffering people rather than ending their lives.
He called for greater development of palliative care and research while emphasizing that patients should continue to be treated with dignity regardless of their condition. Around 150,000 people attended the Mass at Lourdes, with many sick and disabled pilgrims among the crowd.
The Pope’s comments add a strong religious voice to an increasingly significant debate over end-of-life care in France and elsewhere. His position reflects established Catholic teaching opposing euthanasia and medically assisted dying.
During his France visit, Leo has repeatedly emphasized the protection of vulnerable people, making his Lourdes address a major moment in his wider message about human dignity, healthcare and the value of life.
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