Pope Leo Condemns Assisted Dying as ‘False Compassion’ During Lourdes Visit

Pope Leo condemns assisted dying as immoral, calls it 'false compassion' during Lourdes visit. French politics and church abuse crisis in focus.

Editorial Desk

September 27, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Lourdes, France — Pope Leo XIV has strongly opposed the legalization of medically assisted dying, labeling it an immoral act disguised as compassion during a recent visit to the Catholic pilgrimage site of Lourdes in France.

The pontiff expressed his stance during a public address at the shrine, where he emphasized that legalizing such practices undermines the inherent dignity of human life. He stated, It is precisely in the name of this inalienable dignity of the human person that we must reject the temptation to cause death under the guise of false compassion. His remarks drew applause from the large crowd gathered to hear him speak.

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Leo’s comments come amid ongoing global debates over end-of-life choices, particularly in France, where legislation now permits adults with terminal illnesses to access lethal medication. The pope’s visit to the once predominantly Catholic and officially secular country has been marked by massive public attendance, including a record crowd of 800,000 at a Mass in Paris. He has consistently advocated for the protection of life from conception to natural death, aligning with longstanding Catholic teachings against abortion, euthanasia, and assisted dying.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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