In exploring the views of different religions toward health, well-being, Western medicine, and death, we interviewed a variety of religious spokespersons. Although each religion has its own general guidelines, we found that there are frequently individual differences in interpretation and adherence.
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The following answers were compiled from an interview with Pam Driedger, Executive Director of Mennonite Health Services of Manitoba and with David Reimer, Pastor of the Mennonite Brethren, Reedley, California.
Q:
What is the Mennonite philosophy concerning health and well-being?A:
Mennonites subscribe to the general Western views of good health and the causes and treatments of diseases. Many Mennonites work in the healthcare professions. They have an international aid organization and they run hospitals, health and human service agencies, schools of nursing, retirement homes and other care facilities around the world. Mennonites are pacifists, therefore, when they were required to do public service in lieu of military service, they worked in mental institutes, and became instigators of reform of the mental health system in the United States and in Canada.The faith is community-based, so decisions regarding a person's healthcare are often made as a group. If a congregation member is ill or in the hospital, the Mennonite community will bring meals to the person's home, do housework, or fulfil any other obligations the person may have. And in the United States, where healthcare coverage is not universal, they may also assist in paying for a patient's treatment.
Q:
Does the Mennonite religion have any dietary restrictions?A:
Mennonites are discouraged from drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes.Q:
What is your religion's position on the following?A:
Blood transfusions: There is no problem with receiving blood transfusions. And the community is strongly encouraged to donate blood.Organ transplant/organ donation: Donating organs is always encouraged. If an individual needs an organ, the recipient commonly discusses the matter with a pastor. Older people are more likely to decline a donation, if they feel a younger person could benefit from one. The community supports the person's decision, regardless of what it is.
Sexual enhancing drugs (e.g., Viagra): The drug is accepted on a case-by-case basis. For example, if the drug is needed to correct a functional problem, rather than for pleasure purposes.
Birth Control: There is no problem with using birth control, but sex is endorsed only within marriage. The morning after pill is not endorsed because of the belief in the sanctity of life.
Abortion: Although not officially permitted, if the mother's life is threatened, it may be accepted. If, however, a woman has an abortion when her life isn't in jeopardy, the more strict practitioners of the religion may recommend excommunication from the church.
Euthanasia: Mennonites are against physician-assisted suicide.
Q:
What should a healthcare professional know about a Mennonite's view of death?A:
If a patient is dying, the more traditional practitioners will sing hymns, read scriptures, and pray for the person. According to more urbanized, less conservative Mennonites, this practice is fading.