Life, bodily dignity and peace
The fifth commandment protects human life and calls for peace, bodily care, and respect for persons. Catholic teaching addresses abortion, euthanasia, suicide, self-defense, war, and the duty to care for the vulnerable with important distinctions about acts and responsibility. The current Catechism calls the death penalty inadmissible. Respect for life also rejects torture and abuse and supports care for those who suffer.
Follow the sources
An original library introduction, with sources for further study. This is a starting point rather than a complete treatment or a finished formation lesson.