Capital Punishment

Capital punishment is the state-sanctioned execution of an individual for a crime. The Church teaches, in light of the Gospel, that the death penalty is 'inadmissible' because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person (CCC 2267).

Development of Doctrine

While the Church previously recognized the right of legitimate authority to use the death penalty in rare cases, it now teaches that effective systems of detention exist that ensure protection without depriving the guilty of the possibility of redemption (CCC 2267).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the teaching change? It is a development of doctrine reflecting an increasing awareness of the dignity of every human person (CCC 2267).