Life and Death Creation of the world
According to Christian belief, God created the universe.
There are two stories of how God created it which are found at the beginning of the book of Genesis in the Bible. Some Christians regard Genesis 1 and Genesis 2 as two totally separate stories that have a similar meaning. Others see the two chapters as part of one continuous story.
Summary of Genesis 1:
in the beginning - God started creation the first day - light was created the second day - the sky was created the third day - dry land, seas, plants and trees were created the fourth day - the Sun, Moon and stars were created the fifth day - creatures that live in the sea and creatures that fly were created the sixth day - animals that live on the land and finally humans, made in the image of God were created by day seven, God finished his work of creation and rested, making the seventh day a special holy day
In Genesis 2, some people think that the story goes on to give more detail about the creation of humans, seen as two individuals, Adam and Eve.
Adam was made from 'the dust of the ground' when God breathed life into him. Eve was created out of one of Adam's ribs to provide company and help for Adam. They lived in a special place called the Garden of Eden. Both of them were given the task and responsibility to look after the place that God had created for them.
Many Christians do not believe this story to be true in every detail. They believe that God was responsible for the beginning of the universe – that he set things in motion and oversaw the process. They can also learn lessons from the story about the importance of humankind and the responsibility humankind has over the rest of creation.
Most Christians would accept that the central message of both Genesis 1 and 2, whether seen as one or two stories, is:
God made everything God made everything good God made humanity as the highpoint of creation Fundamentalist Christians believe that as the Bible comes directly from God, everything in it must be the exact truth. Anything that contradicts the Bible is wrong. Therefore, for fundamentalist Christians, the Big Bang theory is not correct. Life and Death The world Christians have different opinions when it comes to interpretations about the origins of the universe. They believe that the Earth belongs to God and that humans are stewards in charge of its care. Christian interpretations of the creation
There are many interpretations of the biblical accounts of creation among Christians today.
Most believe that God brought the universe into being from nothing. This is sometimes referred to as ex nihilo. Some believe that it was created from matter that already existed. This is sometimes referred to as ex materia.
Some Christians take the biblical accounts of creation literally, believing that they describe exactly how the universe and human beings were created.
Other Christians regard these accounts as more like parables or symbolic accounts that tell, in story form, the profound truth that God brought the universe and all that is in it into being, and sustains his creation. These Christians might look to science to help them understand how God did this.
The word ‘day’ actually meant ‘period of time’ when the Bible was written. This fact allows some Christians to confirm their beliefs that God caused evolution, as it happened over a very long time. Christianity and science
For many Christians there isn't a conflict between the religious ideas about creation expressed in Genesis and the findings of science.
Genesis is not there to give short, technical answers about how the universe began. It gives us the big answer that things exist because of God's will. One can perfectly well believe in the Big Bang, but believe in it as the will of God the creator.Professor John Polkinghorne, scientist and Anglican priest Cosmology
Cosmology is the study of the universe, and humanity's place in it.
One of the theories put forward by cosmologists is the Big Bang theory. This suggests that about 15 billion years ago there was a massive explosion. This was the point at which all matter in the universe began. Space and time began then too. Over time, the universe that we know, and human and animal life, emerged.
This theory is generally accepted by scientists as being the best theory they have to explain the origins of the universe.
If the Big Bang theory is true, then it could mean that the universe 'just happened' and that it did not emerge as a result of the activity of a creator God. Life and Death
Many Christians have no problem in accepting the Big Bang theory. They see the cosmologists helping them to understand how God brought the world into being - the Big Bang could have been the mechanism God used. And there is nothing in the theory itself which proves that there is no such being as God.
Evolutionary biology
The idea that life might have evolved was first mentioned as early as the 4th century CE by St Augustine, who wrote that God probably only created very simple life forms and that these developed over time.
Today we associate evolutionary science with scientists such as Charles Darwin who wrote On the Origin of Species in 1859. He argued that life began with very simple cells and later developed into what we see today. He said that natural selection was one of the major mechanisms driving evolution.
Darwin upset many people with his views and even some respected scientists, such as Philip Gosse, argued that the fossils, which were discovered in the ground, had been placed there by God deliberately to fool people.
Some Christians found Darwin's theory a threat to their faith because it appeared to challenge the authority of the Bible. If the Bible was wrong on this matter, might it be wrong on other things too? These Christians preferred to maintain a 'literalist' or 'creationist' understanding of Genesis chapters 1 and 2.
Other Christians don't see any problem with their understanding of Genesis and the scientific theories, such as evolution. This goes for scientists who are also Christians, as well as Christians who are not scientists. If science and religion are asking different questions, then they see no contradiction.
Christians who don't see any problem with evolution see the Bible as an authoritative account of God's relationship with human beings and the wider universe. They see it all as part of God's plan, and that humans have specials rights and responsibilities as a result. This view is perhaps currently the view of the majority of Christians in Wales. Christian teachings on the environment
Most Christians believe that God gave human beings a special responsibility within creation to cultivate it, guard it and use it wisely. This is called stewardship. Humans have to work within creation and to look after it:
God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.Genesis 2:15 Humans are given everything for their needs, implying that they can use whatever they want from creation for their survival: Life and Death
Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.Genesis 9:3 However, as the Earth belongs to God, humans must respect it and hand it back to God unspoiled:
The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.Psalm 24:1 These passages from the Bible show the dominant message is that God is the one who provides for humans and humans should show they are thankful by taking care of what God has given them.
The Christian Declaration on Nature drawn up at Assisi in 1986 makes the following points very clearly:
All creation, both with and without humans, has a close interdependence which was made in this way by God. This harmony of creation is to the glory of God. Humans have the role of protecting all created things, not abusing or destroying them. All types of exploitation of the world and its resources and all creatures are rejected. Humans must not do anything that risks damage to the world, including nuclear warfare. Dominion
The term dominion means to rule over nature. This is the idea that humans are in charge of the world on behalf of God. Some Christians who have a literal interpretation of the Bible believe that this gives humans the right to use the world's natural resources for their own benefit.
In Genesis 1:26-31, God creates humans and gives them the Earth to care for.
God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground'.Genesis 1.28 By giving humans dominion over the land and animals, God is giving humanity the right to control and have power over all other living beings. Stewardship
The term stewardship means to look after the world for God. God has created a world in which humans have a special role as stewards of creation. This means they should look after the interests of the planet and all life on it. This belief is more about living in harmony with nature.
When God gave humans dominion over the land, he gave them responsibility too. Humans were created to be stewards of the land, ie:
to use it to look after it Life and Death
to protect it Dominion means humanity’s right to control and have power over the land and all other living beings. Stewardship refers to the responsibilities to the land that come with the right and power. Environmental responsibility
Environmental responsibility means that humans should look after the world in such a way that future generations can enjoy it too. It involves not using up the world's natural resources and ensuring that the planet is cared for and preserved.
As stewards of God’s creation, Christians believe that humans have a responsibility towards the environment. Christians have a duty to do what they can to ensure they are environmentally responsible. Each individual is responsible for their contribution to the environment and therefore must ensure they act to protect it.
Individuals can care for the environment by acting sustainably, eg:
making sure they only buy the food they need recycling where possible using and promoting renewable energy reducing their carbon footprint raising awareness of these issues Sustainability
Sustainability refers to not using up the world's natural resources, such as gas, oil and coal. It is important that these things are used sparingly, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Global citizenship
As stewards of God’s creation, humanity’s responsibility is not limited to the physical Earth but to the rest of humanity too.
Global citizenship refers to working as a community to look after the world. Most Christians believe that all humans should consider themselves as global citizens and work as a team to care for the planet. Everyone can take steps in their lives to ensure they are acting as global citizens, eg
picking up litter turning off the light when not required walking when possible, instead of taking the car You have made them (humans) a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honour. You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet.Psalm 8:5–6 Life and Death
OXFAM defines a global citizen as someone who:
is aware of the wider world and has a sense of their own role as a world citizen respects and values diversity has an understanding of how the world works is outraged by social injustice participates in the community at a range of levels, from the local to the global is willing to act to make the world a more equitable and sustainable place takes responsibility for their actions Question What do Christians mean by global citizens?
The term global citizen refers to the idea that humans should all work as part of a community to look after the world. Christians believe that God made humans stewards of the Earth, and so everyone should act as global citizens. What does this mean in practice?
For many Christians, the guiding principles are to respect God's handiwork of creation, not to exploit any aspect of creation and to be aware of the needs of future generations. Many Christians apply these principles to the question of looking after the environment in a variety of ways.
The Catholic Church has responded to the challenges raised by environmental issues by stressing the need for every individual and every nation to play their part. The important points that the Church makes include the beliefs that:
creation has value because it reveals something about God the creator creation has value in itself humanity depends on God but everyone has a responsibility for the world and the environment Pope John Paul II said:
…the dominion granted to man by the Creator is not an absolute power, nor can one speak of a freedom to 'use and misuse', or to dispose of things as one pleases.Evangelium Vitae, Section 42 (1995) The Church of England has made many statements about environmental issues. The Anglican Communion Environmental Network has made the following statement on the environment:
Christianity is first and foremost a concern for the whole of the created order — biodiversity and business; politics and pollution; rivers, religion and rainforests... If Christians believe in Jesus they must recognise that concern for climate change is not an optional extra but a core matter of faith.Anglican Communion Environmental Network Life and Death
The Evangelical churches are very aware of how much environmental issues are linked to human poverty:
We recognise that poverty forces people to degrade creation in order to survive; therefore we support the development of just, free economies which empower the poor and create abundance without diminishing creation's bounty.Evangelical Declaration on the Care of Creation 1994 This principle could apply to the issue of deforestation, especially when it is carried out by poor people who are trying to grow enough food for their families.
The Quakers are very conscious of humanity's effects on the Earth. They encourage their members to make changes in their lives which enable them to live simply and minimise their exploitation of the Earth:
Where we see crisis, we also see opportunity to remake society as a communion of people living sustainably as part of the natural world. By leading the simpler lives of a low-carbon society, we draw nearer to the abundance of peace, freedom and true community.A Quaker Response to the Crisis of Climate Change 2009 Christian Aid
Christian Aid is an organisation that works all over the world to try and eradicate poverty. The organisation aims to create a more equal world, where all people have the same opportunities and rights.
Part of the work of Christian Aid involves encouraging more people to be global citizens and creating a more environmentally sustainable world.
Christian Aid has recently worked to develop what they call sustainable development goals. These are aimed at protecting the planet. There are 17 goals in total, and they include:
affordable and clean energy sustainable cities and communities climate action Christian Aid believes that education is vital in achieving their goals, and wants more schools to teach these topics. Christian Aid aims to achieve these goals by 2030.
The origin and value of human life When does life begin? Christians believe life is very special and have differing attitudes on issues such as abortion, euthanasia and organ donation.
Human life Life and Death
For Christians, human life is sacred and is a gift from God which is to be respected and protected. This teaching is called the sanctity of life.
The Bible teaches that human beings are created in the image of God. It also teaches that murder is forbidden.
Jesus reminded his followers that each person is precious to God, so much so that God has counted every hair on their head.
God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning – the sixth day.Genesis 1:31 Christians also believe that only God should choose when life begins and ends. This means that many Christians such as Catholics do not agree with the use of contraception or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment.
It also has an impact on beliefs about issues such as abortionand euthanasia.
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.Jeremiah 1:5 There are many examples of Jesus expressing the value of human life in the Bible, such as in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, and the way he tended to a leper. Describe the Christian beliefs about the sanctity of life. Christians believe that all life is created by God and is therefore unique and sacred. This belief is known as the sanctity of life. Christians also believe that humans were made in the image of God, and because of this they believe that all human life should be valued and protected. Christians believe that every attempt should be made to look after all human life. Christians believe that only God should create life and take life away.
Abortion
What is an abortion?
An abortion is when a pregnancy is ended by the deliberate removal of the foetus from the womb so that it does not result in the birth of a child. What does the law say about abortion?
DH, 2011 The Abortion Act 1967, as amended by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990, allows termination of a pregnancy by a registered medical practitioner, subject to certain conditions. This applies to England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. Life and Death
Under the Act an abortion must be carried out in a hospital or specially licensed clinic. Before a legally induced abortion can take place, two doctors must agree that:
the woman is less than 24 weeks pregnant, and it is necessary to prevent grave damage to the woman's physical or mental health, or any of her existing children Abortion is always legal, even after 24 weeks, if:
there is a serious threat to the woman's health or life, or there is substantial risk that the child will be born with physical or mental abnormalities and be seriously disabled In cases of medical emergency, a second doctor's agreement does not need to be sought.
The law outlined above does not apply to Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland. Pro-life and pro-choice
Christians understand and apply the guiding principle of the sanctity of life in a variety of ways to the issue of abortion. Within the same church, views may differ. The four main positions are as follows: Life and Death
Pro-life - some Christians, including many Catholics, believe that abortion is morally wrong because of their belief that human life begins at conception. They may make an exception if an abortion is essential in order to save the life of the mother (the 'principle of double effect'), assuming all efforts have been made to save the foetus. Pro-choice - it is up to the woman to decide whether it is right for her to have an abortion because it is her body. Some Christians believe that a woman has a right to a safe abortion, and that it shows compassion if the law allows this. Absolute moral - abortion is wrong in every circumstance. Relative moral - abortion is permitted in certain circumstances. Arguments for and against abortion
There are many powerful arguments for and against abortion.
People with different beliefs may agree with many of these arguments.
Many religious believers are likely to have great sympathy with the arguments that a person should be able to decide what happens to their own body, but for them the idea that life is sacred may outweigh other arguments, however good. Arguments for abortion
A woman has the right to choose whether or not she wants to have the baby. It is her body. In the case of rape, it would be lacking in compassion to deny a woman the right to an abortion. The woman might be too young, or have work or family commitments which make bringing up a child difficult or impossible for her. The pregnant woman's health and welfare are more important than that of the embryo or foetus. The pregnant woman's life is more important than that of the embryo or foetus. The embryo or foetus does not have the same rights as the mother. The quality of life of the unborn child or the woman's existing children could be adversely affected by the birth. Stopping legal abortions would mean a return to 'back street' abortions, causing a great deal of suffering to the health and wellbeing of the woman. Abortion could therefore be the lesser of two evils. Arguments against abortion
Catholics believe that life begins at conception and therefore abortion is morally wrong. Most Protestant churches in Britain also view abortion as a moral wrong, but concede that there are some limited conditions when it can be allowed. Every human being, including an embryo or foetus, has the right to live and to reach their potential. Life and Death
There are alternatives to abortion, eg adoption, when an individual or a couple become a child's legal parent(s) after its birth, and the child's birth parents no longer have any rights or responsibilities towards the child. The unborn child is denied choice. Abortion destroys human life and makes life appear cheap and disposable. This affects the quality and value of life. People born with disabilities can live full and happy lives. Abortion - diverse Christian attitudes
Views on abortion can differ between the different Christian denominations. Catholic Church
The Catholic Church states that abortion is always wrong, because life begins at conception and is God-given. This means that in the eyes of the Catholic Church abortion is classed as murder and goes against the commandment, Thou shalt not kill (Exodus 20:13). This commandment is reiterated by Jesus in Matthew 19:18. The Church also disagrees with abortion as it goes against natural law, which is an act that goes against what nature intended. The Church takes an absolutist stance on this and believes that abortion is wrong in all situations. The Catholic Church is pro-life. They argue that all life starts out in the same way, so all life should have the chance to develop and survive. The Catholic Church argues that all life has value, and that to take life away is a sin. The Catholic Church would argue on behalf of the unborn child that it should be cared for and looked after.
If a woman has lifesaving treatment whilst pregnant, and a side effect is the ending of a pregnancy, then the Catholic Church will accept abortion in this instance. This is known as the law of ‘double effect.’ This does not include having an abortion to save the life of the mother. It is only a non-direct treatment.
Question Explain the Catholic Church’s teaching on abortion.
The Catholic Church teaches that abortion is always wrong as they believe that all life is sacred and a gift from God. The Church teaches that all life begins at the moment of conception. Therefore, from that point all life has equal value. As a result of this belief, abortion is classed by the Catholic Church as murder and goes against the commandment not to kill. As God is responsible for creating all life, God alone has the power and authority to take life. The Church shows that there are alternatives to abortion, such as giving a child up for adoption. Life and Death
Anglican Church
The views on abortion held by the Anglican Church can be mixed between believers.
The general view shared is that abortion is wrong. However, abortion may be accepted in some, strictly limited circumstances if it is considered to be the most preferable option. In these circumstances, they will look at the quality of life factor, meaning: o if the mother’s life is at risk, or if she has been raped, then abortion would be allowed o if it was for a social issue, then abortion would not be allowed The Anglican Church also believes that all life is precious and a gift from God, so should therefore be protected. Church in Wales
The Church in Wales has not officially announced its stance on abortion. However, it is generally accepted that its views on this matter are aligned with those of the Anglican Church. Methodist Church
The Methodist Church tends to have an anti-abortion view. However, they will allow abortion in extreme circumstances. They offer help and support to mothers in order to try and avoid abortion.
Question ‘Abortion is always wrong’. Discuss this statement, showing that you have considered more than one point of view.
The Catholic Church would agree with this statement, as they believe that abortion is wrong and forbidden in all circumstances. This viewpoint comes from the belief that life begins at conception and so from this moment the foetus is considered a human. They believe that all humans were created by God and only God should be able to take life away. Catholics view abortion as murder which goes against one of the Ten Commandments.
Other Christian denominations, such as the Church in Wales, would also say that abortion is wrong. They believe in the sanctity of life, so believe that life is sacred and should be protected. They may not fully agree with the above statement, as they do accept that in some, extreme circumstances abortion may be the kindest possible option, such as when the mother’s life is in danger. Life and Death What is euthanasia?
Euthanasia means 'gentle and easy death'. The term is used to describe the deliberate ending of a person's life for compassionate reasons because they are suffering, eg from a painful or incurable disease. What does UK law say about euthanasia?
Euthanasia is illegal in the UK. Euthanasia is punishable by law and can carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Assisted dying is also illegal in the UK. It is punishable by law and can carry a penalty of up to 14 years' imprisonment.
Types of euthanasia
Life and Death
There are various types of euthanasia:
Active euthanasia - something is done to a person to make them die more quickly, eg giving drugs with the intention of bringing about death. Passive euthanasia - any form of treatment that might extend a person's life is withdrawn, eg a life support machine is turned off, or a feeding tube is removed. This is legally allowed in the UK, and so would not be called euthanasia. Voluntary euthanasia - a person asks for their own life to be ended. Non-voluntary euthanasia - a person cannot make a decision about euthanasia or cannot make their wishes known, and so someone else, eg a doctor or a family member, decides that it would be in the person's best interest if their life was ended. For example, if the person is in a coma. Involuntary euthanasia - a person wants to live, but someone else, eg a doctor or a family member, decides that it would be in the person's best interest if their life was ended. For example, if a person has had an accident that will lead to imminent and painful death, a decision might be made to end their life even if the person wanted to live. Assisted dying - deliberately assisting or encouraging another person to end their own life. What are the alternatives to euthanasia?
There are two main alternatives to euthanasia:
Hospice - this is where specialist medical staff look after the terminally ill. Palliative drugs are used to help ensure that the person does not suffer any more pain than is absolutely necessary. Staff are able to talk with patients about death and dying and any fears they may have. They are also available to support the family of the dying person. Refusing treatment - in the UK all adults have the right to refuse treatment as long as they have the capacity to understand the situation they are in and to make an informed decision.
What does Christianity teach about euthanasia?
There is no single Christian teaching on euthanasia - different Christian denominations take different views.
Most Christians believe that life is sacred and given by God, and therefore only God can decide when life ends. This means that many Christians trust God to end life when the proper time comes and would not accept any intervention that would end a life before God decides.
Christians follow the Ten Commandments, one of which says:
You shall not kill.Exodus 20:13
The deliberate ending of a life could be classed as murder. Life and Death
Some Christians believe that ending pain and suffering, even if this means ending a life before God decides, to be an act of love and compassion.
When Jesus was being crucified on the cross, the Gospel of Mark(Mark 15:23) says that he refused the mixture of wine and gallwhich could have eased his pain. Following this example, many Christians believe that suffering is an inevitable part of life that should be endured and offered up to God in union with Jesus's suffering.
Euthanasia - diverse Christian attitudes
Different denominations interpret the teachings differently, with very different results.
Catholic Church
The Catholic Church teaches that no person has the right to deliberately end the life of another person, or his or her own life. However, it also teaches that it is not acceptable to unquestioningly prolong the life of a dying person.
In February 2009, Pope Benedict XVI, the former leader of the Catholic Church, made that Church's position on euthanasia very clear: Euthanasia is a false solution to the drama of suffering, a solution unworthy of man.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church states:
Whatever its motives and means, direct euthanasia consists in putting an end to the lives of handicapped, sick or dying persons. It is morally unacceptable.Paragraph 2277
Protestant Church
Most Protestant denominations also teach that euthanasia and assisted dying are unacceptable solutions to the problem of suffering.
Some Christians, however, accept that if a person is terminally ill and in extreme pain or distress, euthanasia may be an act of compassion, provided the dying person requests it and fully understands the consequences of their request. They may also use the teaching on free will to justify the right to choose to die. However, those Christians who support euthanasia only do so if it is voluntary and passive, and never if it is involuntary or active.
Many Christian denominations support the hospice movement. Hospices provide palliative care and support for a dying person and their families to help ease the pain of death and allow them to come to terms with the death. Arguments in favour of and against euthanasia Life and Death
There are many powerful arguments for and against euthanasia.
People with different beliefs may agree with many of these arguments. For example, an atheist may recognise that there are dangers in allowing euthanasia (the slippery slopeargument), but they might argue that an individual's right to direct their own life outweighs other good arguments.
Many religious believers are likely to have great sympathy with arguments that a person should not have to live in agony, but for them, the idea that life is sacred may outweigh other arguments, however good. Arguments for euthanasia
Some arguments in favour of euthanasia include:
Human beings should have the right to be able to decide when and how they die (self- determination). Life and Death
Euthanasia enables a person to die with dignity and in control of their situation. Death is a private matter and the state should not interfere with the individual's right to die. It is expensive to keep people alive when there is no cure for their illness. Euthanasia would release precious resources to treat people who could live. Family and friends would be spared the pain of seeing their loved one suffer a long- drawn-out death. Society permits animals to be put down as an act of kindness when they are suffering, so the same treatment should be available to humans. Arguments against euthanasia
Some arguments against euthanasia include:
God creates life, therefore only God can take it away Thou shalt not kill (Exodus 20:13) euthanasia would weaken society's respect for the value and importance of human life proper palliative care is available which reduces or removes the need for people to be in pain it would lead to worse care for the terminally ill it would put too much power in the hands of doctors, and damage the trust between patient and doctor some people may feel pressured to request euthanasia by family, friends or doctors, when it isn't what they really want it would undermine the commitment of doctors and nurses to save lives it would discourage the search for new cures and treatments for the terminally ill some people unexpectedly recover some people may change their mind about euthanasia and be unable to tell anyone voluntary euthanasia could be the first step on a slippery slope that leads to involuntary euthanasia, where those who are undesirable or seen as a problem could be killed Organ donation
Christians believe that organ donation is a good, moral thing to do.
They consider it to be an act of love and believe that it is a way of following Jesus' teaching to love thy neighbour.
Organ donation may be a scary thought for some people, but Christians do not fear death, as death leads to an eternal life with God.
As Christians believe that it is only a person's soul that goes to heaven, rather than the physical body, they have no problem with people donating parts of their body. Life and Death Organ donation in Wales
In 2015, Wales changed to an ‘opt-out’ system for organ donation.
This means that there are three options:
Opt in: by registering to be a donor, a person can choose to donate all their organs, or choose to donate only some of their organs. Do nothing: by not registering a decision to donate organs (ie to specifically opt in, or opt out) with the Organ Donor Register, it is assumed that the person does not object to donating their organs. This is known as deemed consent. Opt out: this option gives people the chance to register a decision not to become an organ donor. It is important for families and loved ones to be aware of the person's wishes regarding organ donation, so that they can make sure that their wishes are respected.
The 'opt-out' system is unique to Wales, as people have to choose to ‘opt-in’ to organ donation in other parts of the UK. In other words, their organs cannot be used after their death, unless they have specifically given permission. Life and Death
As Bishops we are wholeheartedly in favour of organ donation. It is love in action and a wonderful example of what it can mean to love our neighbours, especially those in need. Such generosity is a response to God's generosity towards us.Statement from the bishops of the Church in Wales, 2015 Case study – organ donation
Bill was taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff after a severe stroke. A few weeks earlier, he'd had a serious conversation about organ donation with his daughter Karen.
When it was clear there was no chance that Bill would recover, his kidneys were donated to two people, whose lives were saved as a result. Life and Death
It's made losing him easier, because it's like something good has come out of it, and I can't think of any other circumstance when someone dies that something good comes out of it.Karen, daughter of organ donor Death and the afterlife The view that a person holds about the afterlife is bound to affect the value given to this current life. Christian beliefs about life after death are based on the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The body and soul
Christians believe that the death of the physical body is not the end. After their time on Earth, Christians believe that humans will have eternal life in the afterlife.
Christians believe that all humans have a soul. They believe the soul to be a non-physical part of humans that lives on after the death of the physical body. Many believe that it is the soul that will live on in the afterlife.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal lifeJohn 3:16 The main distinction between the body and soul is that:
the body is mortal the soul is immortal Humans' time on Earth will be judged by God and this will determine what happens to the soul in the afterlife. Most Christians believe that humans will either go to Heaven or to Hell. What does Christianity say about life after death?
Christian beliefs about life after death are based on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christians believe that Jesus’ death and resurrection are part of God’s divine plan for humankind. Through his death on the cross, Jesus pays the penalty for humankind's sin and humankind's relationship with God is restored. This is called atonement. Christians believe that three days after the crucifixion, God raised Jesus from the dead and he once again appeared to his disciples. This is taken to mean that Jesus’ sacrifice was a victory over sin and death. Although physical death still happens, those who believe in Christ and live good lives will be given eternal life in Heaven. Heaven
Heaven is described as eternity in the presence of God.
Heaven is the ultimate aim for all Christians in order for their soul to be reunited with God and united with Christ. Life and Death
In the Gospels, Christ often describes and teaches about Heaven using parables, such as the Mustard Seed and the Pearl.
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.Matthew 13:45-46 Jesus reiterates in John’s gospel that humanity is not to worry and to have faith. If there was no Heaven, then Christ would not have taught about it.
In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way to the place where I am going.John 14:1-4 Hell
Since God has given human beings free will, there must be an opportunity for people to reject God. This is the basis of the idea of Hell.
Hell is very rarely mentioned in the Bible, so little is known about what it consists of. However, Hell has traditionally been depicted as a place of eternal fire that symbolises pain and suffering. This is seen as the result of the refusal to accept the happiness that God wants people to share with him.
Hell is the opposite of Heaven. It is eternity in the absence of God.
In the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, the rich man describes Hell, which he refers to as Hades, as a place of torment.
The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was being tormented…Luke 16:22 Heaven and Hell are considered as physical places by some Christians, but more as symbolic places or a state of being by others. Purgatory
The Catholic Church teaches that after death there is a state of Purgatory. This is a place where some people who have sinned are purified in a 'cleansing fire', after which they are accepted into Heaven.
All who die in God's grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation: but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of Heaven.Catechism of the Catholic Church para 1030, 1992 Most Christian churches do not accept the idea of Purgatory, believing instead that once judgement happens, people will either be in Heaven or Hell for all eternity.
The Christian creeds teach:
I believe in the resurrection of the body and life everlasting.Apostles Creed Life and Death
There is no clear explanation of how this belief will come into practice. Some Christians say that at the end of time, everybody will be raised up in a physical state on a new Earth. Some people feel that this simply refers to the idea that the whole person will be present in Heaven. Judgement
Many Christians believe that after death, they will be taken into the presence of God and they will be judged for the deeds they have done or failed to do during their lifetime.
Some Christians believe that this judgement will happen when they die. Others believe that there will be a Day of Judgement at the end of time, when everybody will be judged at the same time. Some believe that judgement will happen in two stages: an initial personal judgement when you die, followed by the definitive judgement at the end of time.
Some Christians believe in the Second Coming (Parousia) - the anticipated return of Jesus Christ from Heaven to Earth. This will herald the general resurrection of the dead, the last judgement of the dead and the living, and the full establishment of the Kingdom of God on Earth. Responsibility
Christians believe that humans have a responsibility to behave in the correct, moral way expected of them in the Bible.
This includes:
following rules, such as the Ten Commandments practising the teachings of Jesus, such as forgiveness and kindness Christians believe that it is these types of behaviours that will be judged and that will be used to determine what happens to people in the afterlife. Free will
Christians believe that God created humans with free will. This is the idea that people can make their own decisions, rather than having life predetermined for them.
Without free will, humans could not be described as moral beings, as they will not have made the conscious choice to live and act in a moral way.
Christians believe it is important to use the free will given to them by God in a wise way and avoid committing sins. As a result of this free will, humans are able to choose right from wrong, and therefore can sin if they choose to do so.
The idea of free will is found in Genesis where Adam and Eve, the first humans, are given the Garden of Eden to live in. God asks one requirement of them, and that is not to eat the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge. Eve and Adam disobey this commandment, and God then punishes the couple accordingly. Life and Death
Christians believe that this is where sin entered the world. Why do Christians believe in life after death?
The main source of authority for Christians is the Bible.
Christians find many reasons in the Bible to believe in life after death. They include:
Eternal life - Jesus promised that his followers would have eternal life.
Jesus said, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies.John 11:25-26 Jesus' life as an example - God sent Jesus to Earth in order that humans could overcome death and have eternal life.
God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.John 3:16 Resurrection of the body - when Jesus rose from the dead he rose with a body. St Paul teaches in the Bible that people will have resurrection bodies like that of Jesus:
So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.1 Corinthians 15:42-44 Immortality of the soul - Jesus told the criminal crucified with him that he would go straight to paradise.
And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."Luke 23:39-43 Christians interpret the teachings of the Bible on life after death to mean that humans will have a spiritual existence after death, rather than just a physical one.
Belief in life after death may be influenced by the meaning and purpose that it gives to the lives of Christians. The Parable of the Sheep and Goats
The Parable of the Sheep and Goats is found in Matthew 25:31-46.
In this parable, Jesus uses the example of a shepherd who separates his sheep from his goats in order to help his followers understand what judgement will be like.
Jesus explains that people will be separated into two groups:
those who have lived good lives and believed in God will be put on one side and have a place in Heaven Life and Death
those who have rejected the belief in God and sinned in their lives will be placed on the other side and will go to Hell Question Explain Christian beliefs in the afterlife.
Christians believe that all humans have a soul which lives on after the death of the physical body. They believe that how they live during this life on Earth will impact what happens when they die. If they have followed God's will they will have eternal life with God. However, if not, their soul may go then their soul may go to a place known as Hell where they are separated from God and experience torment. Some Christians believe it is just the soul that is resurrected and goes on to the afterlife. Others believe that the body will be resurrected and go to the afterlife.
How funerals reflect beliefs about the afterlife
There are many different elements of the Christian funeral service which reflect the different Christian beliefs about the afterlife.
The Christian funeral service usually takes place in a church, and is led by a priest, vicar or minister.
Candle
A candle is often lit during the Christian funeral ceremony. This is done to symbolise Jesus as the light of the world, and that because of Jesus, humans have been saved from sin and can enter Heaven.
Biblical readings and hymns
Passages are read from the Bible during the Christian funeral service and hymns are sung. The purpose of these passages and hymns are often to provide support for the family of the deceased.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort mePsalm 23:4 Burial
Following the funeral service, the traditional choice for Christians is to be buried. This is because Christians believed that the body needed to be intact for the physical resurrection of the body. Today, some Christians choose to be cremated, as it is believed by many that it is only the soul that goes on to the afterlife. When the bodies are lowered into the ground the vicar, priest or minister will often say the words "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust". This is to symbolise that humanity was made from the ground and will return to the ground.
Last Rites Life and Death
Catholics will often try to ensure they are given the Last Rites. This is when a priest will come to the dying person and say some prayers with them. People will have a chance to have their sins forgiven by God shortly before their death, so that they can die in peace knowing that they have a better chance of going to Heaven. Non-religious views Religion and science ask different kinds of questions about the universe and its origins. Humanists and atheists do not have any religious beliefs, and embrace scientific discoveries instead.
The scientific method
Scientists use a standard procedure for expanding our knowledge and understanding of the world, called the scientific method.
They identify an observation or process that they want to be able to explain. They make a hypothesis, an idea which might explain the observation or process, and which can be tested. They carry out experiments to test the hypothesis, which may support or disprove the hypothesis. If the evidence supports the hypothesis, scientists will repeat the process many times with different observations and different experiments - perhaps using different instruments and different researchers. If the hypothesis is tested in many different ways and is not disproved, it develops into a theory. A theory that is accepted by scientists may later be replaced by another theory if it is disproved. This procedure, using experiment and observation to generate evidence to support or disprove a theory, is called empirical, meaning 'based on observation or experiment'.
Theories developed and supported in this way don't necessarily stay accepted forever. If new observations are made or new data comes along which disprove the theory, the empirical process must start again with a new hypothesis. Origins of the universe What accounts of the origins of the universe are given by science? Life and Death
A timeline from the Big Bang to Earth's first oceans In the distant past most people accepted their religion's explanation of how the universe began. As the world became more interested in science in the 18th and 19th centuries, however, religion alone couldn't always explain the new discoveries being made. In the 1920s the Big Bang theory was proposed as a possible scientific explanation for the creation of the universe.
It was first proposed in 1922 by Alexander Friedmann, a Russian mathematician, and expanded upon in 1927 by Georges-Henri Lemaître. He was a Belgian physicist, who was also a Catholicpriest. Scientists such as Edwin Hubble have made detailed observations and measurements that support and develop this theory.
Put simply, around 14 billion years ago, all matter and energy in the universe was at a point of infinite density and temperature. It then expanded rapidly, and eventually stars, galaxies and planets formed. This expansion was the beginning of time and continues to this day. The Big Bang theory is supported by evidence that space is expanding, including the redshift of light from distant galaxies and the existence of cosmic background radiation in all directions.
It is thought the Earth was formed around 4.6 billion years ago from dust and gas left after the Sun formed.
As the Earth gradually cooled, creating conditions in which life was possible, living things appeared on the new planet Earth.
Not all scientists agree with the Big Bang theory, but many of their objections are to do with the details within the process, not the underlying principle that it happened. Similarly, there are different hypotheses about how life began on Earth. These can be tested, but scientists cannot be sure which are correct because it happened long ago.
Stephen Hawking
Stephen Hawking was a world-famous physicist and cosmologist. In the 1960s, he discovered that although the universe looks like it is static, it is in reality constantly expanding. His theory is based on the fact that this rapidly expanding universe is the result of one single, initial event known as the Big Bang. Life and Death Theory of evolution
Evolution of human beings over millions of years from ape-like ancestors In 1859, a British man called Charles Darwin published a book called On the Origin of Species. This book was based on his studies of creatures he had encountered on his travels to many overseas locations, including the Galapagos Islands. He put forward the theory that all living creatures that exist today, including human beings, have evolved over a period of perhaps millions of years, from more primitive life forms to how they are today by a process of natural selection. Another name for this random development of species is blind evolution.
Darwin was a natural science graduate of Cambridge University and a geologist. He was also a Christian. Darwin did not intend to challenge religious beliefs with his book but many religious believers responded to it with fury. These reasons included:
the theory of evolution seemed to go against religious teachings that God made the Earth and created all living things, as they knew them Christians believed that God had created humans 'in his own image', that humans were superior to all other creatures and had a soul that is immortal the theory of evolution challenged the idea that God is the designer of the universe and that the beauty, order and complexity of the universe is evidence of this (the design argument). the idea that living things adapt to their environment was opposed to their belief that God had created the perfect environment for them the Bible says humans were created on the sixth day of creation, not over a period of millions of years These scientific theories were first put forward in the 19th century, when Christianity was an important influence on people's lives and the way they thought. Many people saw them as a direct attack on their faith. Charles Darwin faced criticism from people who could not accept what they saw as his 'anti-religious' ideas.
Richard Dawkins
Richard Dawkins is a famous biologist and is also an atheist. He is a great supporter of the theory of evolution. One of his main arguments is that if the world had been 'designed', as Life and Death some people claim, then who designed the designer? For Dawkins, Darwin's theory on natural selection solves the question of where humans come from. As he does not believe in God, Dawkins argues that evolution does not need help from a higher being.
The illusion of design in the living world is explained with far greater economy . . . by Darwinian natural selection.Richard Dawkins The Darwin fish
The Darwin fish is a symbol used by people who believe in Darwin's theory of evolution. It is a variation of the icthus symbol traditionally used by Christians to secretly show their faith. The ichthus symbol represents a fish. The Darwin fish is similar in design but has added feet to represent evolution.
Humanism
What does a humanist believe?
Humanists reject the idea or belief in a supernatural being such as God. This means that humanists class themselves as agnostic or atheist.
Humanists have no belief in an afterlife, and so they focus on seeking happiness in this life. They rely on science for the answers to questions such as creation, and base their moral and ethical decision-making on reason, empathy and compassion for others.
The British Humanist Society works on behalf of non-religious people who seek to live ethical lives on the basis of reason and humanity. Humanists are concerned with human welfare and happinessand believe that this is the one and only life and world they have.
As a result, they believe that people should make the most of their lives while on Earth. However, they also believe that they have a duty to support others to live fulfilling lives too – this includes people who are alive today as well as future generations.
Because humanists do not believe in any kind of god or supernatural force that will solve their problems, they believe that human beings must take sole responsibility for solving the world's environmental problems. Only humans are capable of finding the solutions that can lead to a sustainable existence.
Evolution Life and Death
Humanists believe that human beings were not created, but instead evolved naturally. They believe that humans go on evolving, along with the rest of the species on our planet today. Evidence shows how human welfare is heavily dependent on the natural world and on the continued existence of many other species. H4BW – Humanists for a Better World
H4BW (Humanists for a Better World) is an organisation that works alongside the British Humanist Association. H4BW work on, and raise awareness of, environmental, social and global issues. Their aim is to tackle issues that face the world today and solve them for the sake of today's and tomorrow's generations.
Humanists see no need for there to be a greater being who determines what actions people take. They rely on science to make decisions, and base their actions upon that.
The British Humanist Society set out seven statements on the environment and their responsibility towards it. Humanists should:
accept responsibility to maintain a sustainable environment for future generations understand the place of humans within nature understand human responsibilities for other species ensure that development can be justified preserve balance and diversity in nature wherever possible preserve areas of natural beauty and interest for future generations repair, where possible, habitats damaged by human development and other means
Quality of life vs the right to life
Atheists do not believe in an afterlife. Their focus is on this life and making it the best possible life. For some people, this may mean living their lives as they see fit, and it may or may not include a duty to care for and respect others.
Peter Singer
Peter Singer is a moral philosopher, who popularised the term speciesism. Speciesism is the idea that humans have greater moral rights than other living beings, based simply on the fact that they are human.
Singer opposes speciesism, as he believes that all living beings should be treated equally. He believes that to treat humans differently to other animals is the same as treating one race differently to another. Singer therefore fights for animal rights and promotes veganism.
Speciesism — the word is not an attractive one, but I can think of no better term — is a prejudice or attitude of bias in favor of the interests of members of one’s own species and against those of members of other species.Peter Singer, Animal Liberation 1975 Life and Death
Many people believe that quality of life is more important than the right to life. If someone has no quality of life, then is there any reason for that life to continue? If a person is suffering and in pain, some people would argue that they have the right to end that life and opt for euthanasia.
Similarly the same applies for abortion. If tests have shown that a baby is likely to be born with severe disabilities, some people may argue that to end the pregnancy may be the best option.
Defining 'quality of life'
It is difficult to define exactly what 'quality of life' means. People who are living with severe disabilities have very different viewpoints on their own quality of life. Quality of life is different for each individual, as is their ability to deal with pain and suffering.
Absolutist approach
Many religions and faiths would take an absolutist approach when it comes to decisions on life and death. An absolutist approach means that actions are viewed either as being always right or always wrong.
Situationist/relativist approach
People who have no belief in an afterlife and believe that it is only this life that matters, may take a situationist or relativist approach to decisions regarding the right to life and death.
A situationist approach considers each individual situation. With this approach, decisions are based on what is best for people involved in a particular situation. As humanists have no doctrines or set teachings, each person will have their own approach towards decisions on life and death, however most humanists take the situationist approach. Humanist funerals
Humanist funerals focus on the separation from the dead person and the grief that people feel. Remembering the good deeds and life experience of the deceased helps this grief. The focus on the deceased and the life that they have lived.
A candle might be lit to remind people of the way the dead person affected their own lives. There is no religious content and no suggestion that the person lives on except in the memories of the friends they have left behind and in the effects of their good works.
Secular death rites
The coffin is welcomed into the place of the service and the celebrant will welcome the mourners. The mourners will often listen to or join in with the favourite music of the deceased. Life and Death
A close friend or relative will usually share important events from the life of the dead person, to show how much difference that person made to family, friends and the community. Some people might include a few religious elements, like a familiar prayer or a religious symbol.
Many people do not believe a strong element of religion is desirable, especially if the deceased did not follow a particular religion. The main focus of secular death rites is to celebrate the life of the deceased, and not refer to any beliefs about what happens in the afterlife.
As there is no set plan, each funeral can differ. Below is an example of the order of a humanist funeral:
opening music welcome the mourners reflection on life and death from a non-religious point of view tribute outlining the personality and life and of the deceased person readings, eg usually non-religious poetry or texts reflection – a chance for the mourners to think about the deceased person committal – this is when the curtains are closed on the coffin or when the casket is lowered into the ground final words, eg thanking the mourners on behalf of the deceased person closing music (non-religious) Rhodri Morgan
Wales' former first minister, Rhodri Morgan, died in May 2017. A humanist funeral was held for him at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay. The funeral service was led by the humanist celebrant, Lorraine Barrett, a former AM at the Senedd. Carwyn Jones, Rhodri Morgan's successor as first minister of Wales, paid tribute to Morgan by reading Dylan Thomas' poem Do not go gentle into that good night... The only religious song at the funeral was a rendition of Calon Lân by Morgan's young grandson. The service was brought to a close with a rendition of Hen Wlad fy Nhadau - the Welsh national anthem.
This is a celebration of his life through words, poetry and music.Lorraine Barrett, Humanist celebrant at Rhodri Morgan's funeral