At the beginning of Lent, the Church invites the faithful to reflect on conversion, solidarity and self-giving love in the light of Christ's sacrifice. Within this spirit, organ donation is presented as a concrete and generous expression of Christian charity, capable not only of saving lives but also of improving their quality, the bishops said in their pastoral letter for Lent.

The Church teaches that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. The human body is not merely a biological instrument but an integral part of the person, deserving profound respect in life and in death. Organ donation must always be understood within this vision of the unity of body and soul. It is never an act of exploitation or utilitarian use of the body, but a recognition that our lives are gifts entrusted to us by God, the pastoral letter said.

When carried out ethically, organ donation is described as a "genuine act of love" and a "generous gift" offered for the good of another, the bishops said. It reflects Christ's own self-giving for the life of the world. For living donors, such generosity must not endanger their own life or essential bodily functions. For deceased donors, organ donation can transform loss into hope, allowing life to flourish even in the face of death.

The Church supports organ donation provided strict moral safeguards are observed. Free and informed consent is essential; donation must never be coerced. Death must be rigorously and certainly established before organs are removed, whether according to neurological or circulatory criteria.

Death must never be caused or hastened for transplantation purposes, the bishops said. A clear separation must exist between the medical team caring for the patient and those performing the transplant, ensuring that treatment is always directed to the patient's true good until death. The dignity of the donor must be upheld, with reverent treatment of the body and respect for funeral rites. Moreover, any form of commercialisation is morally unacceptable: human organs must never be bought or sold.

The Church acknowledges fears and misunderstandings surrounding organ donation and encourages open dialogue, reliable medical information and prayerful discernment. Families are urged to discuss their wishes in advance, fostering clarity and peace in moments of vulnerability.

Rooted in faith in the Resurrection, organ donation does not contradict Christian hope. Rather, it can become a final testimony that love is stronger than death. The faithful are encouraged to consider registering as organ donors, seeing this choice as a path of discipleship marked by compassion, responsibility and profound respect for human life, the bishops said.