Taking the Good Samaritan as its model, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith addresses pastors and faithful on caring for the sick in the critical and terminal stages of life, prompted by the legalization of assisted suicide and voluntary euthanasia in some countries. Care continues when cure is impossible, and the suffering Christ, with those who "remain" beneath the Cross, offers the pattern for accompaniment. Three cultural obstacles are named: a utilitarian "quality of life" standard, a false compassion, and individualism.

Euthanasia is reaffirmed as definitive teaching to be an intrinsically evil act, and assisted suicide and any formal or immediate material cooperation are gravely wrong. Lawful renunciation of disproportionate treatment is distinguished from withdrawal of basic care, with nutrition and hydration obligatory while the body can benefit. Palliative care is commended, but laws that fold Medical Assistance to the Dying into it are rejected. Sedation that does not intend death is licit. Patients in a vegetative state retain full dignity; prenatal hospice and pediatric care are upheld; conscientious objection is defended, and Catholic institutions may not make euthanasia referrals. Penitents who persist in choosing euthanasia lack the disposition for Penance, Anointing and Viaticum until they change course, though chaplains should stay close without remaining for the act. Pope Francis approved the letter on 25 June 2020.