Can the Communion of Saints Help the Search for Justice in Dying well (Enough), “In Abraham's Arms, Where Lazarus is Poor no Longer”?

Abstract

How can we practice dying in community? What communal practices nourish positive acts that make dying well (enough)—more than prudent caution in avoiding causing death (killing)? What part of our common ecclesial life as Catholics enables us to accompany dying persons as a gracious return to God? We are twice haunted: most first world deaths result from foreseen end-stage illnesses; mortality is less feared than burdensomeness for caregivers from vulnerable dependence. Of those who die in the hospital, many deaths result from decisions to withhold and withdraw treatments. From ten kinds of desolation about dying, ten parallel consolations are discerned in hopes and outcomes-based best practices.