Greetings
Owing to the vast complexities of the field of scientific and medical research, it is very difficult to stay informed concerning the ethical implications of medical procedures. It is a complex and rapidly changing field. However, as Orthodox Christians, we have an approach that helps us to navigate our way, and that is the worldview of the Orthodox Church.
When a question or need arises which would involve major medical intervention in our lives, or as practitioners of medical/scientific research, we need to consider the following: How does this affect our salvation? Will any part of the process require us to sin, to one degree or another? Are we tampering with the divinely established order of His Creation? Is this process dependant on someone else committing sin? Does sin have to be committed in order for this process to even be possible? Does my having this process deprive someone or other of the possibility of receiving beneficial treatment?
All of these considerations will give us a foundation upon which we can make a decision in good conscience and in a God-pleasing manner.
One very good resourse is the book by Spyridon Logothetis "Depression, a Spiritual Guide.
Fr. Germogen
Owing to the vast complexities of the field of scientific and medical research, it is very difficult to stay informed concerning the ethical implications of medical procedures. It is a complex and rapidly changing field. However, as Orthodox Christians, we have an approach that helps us to navigate our way, and that is the worldview of the Orthodox Church.
When a question or need arises which would involve major medical intervention in our lives, or as practitioners of medical/scientific research, we need to consider the following: How does this affect our salvation? Will any part of the process require us to sin, to one degree or another? Are we tampering with the divinely established order of His Creation? Is this process dependant on someone else committing sin? Does sin have to be committed in order for this process to even be possible? Does my having this process deprive someone or other of the possibility of receiving beneficial treatment?
All of these considerations will give us a foundation upon which we can make a decision in good conscience and in a God-pleasing manner.
One very good resourse is the book by Spyridon Logothetis "Depression, a Spiritual Guide.
Fr. Germogen
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