Jehovah's Witnesses: Blood transfusions approved, a matter of individual conscience.

Rome – For the first time, Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide will be able to donate and receive transfusions of red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, and platelets. However, the refusal of whole blood remains unchanged. The news, reported by La Stampa, is contained in "2026 Governing Body Update #6," the sixth annual update of the Governing Body.

In a video released in several languages, the organization's leaders reiterate that "life and blood are sacred," but add that "progress in this area has raised many questions." Hence the decision to leave room for individual conscience: "Every Christian must make their own decision regarding the use of their blood in surgery and related to medical care."

The turning point is also justified by a biblical quote, taken from St. Paul's letter to the Galatians: "Each will bear his own burden." The principle invoked is that of personal responsibility.

In a statement, the Governing Body clarifies that accepting red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, or platelets derived from another person's blood is "a matter of individual conscience." Likewise, each Witness must decide whether or not to donate their own blood, provided it is used only to provide components or fractions to others. The refusal of whole blood transfusions, a long-standing practice for religious reasons, "remains unchanged."

"Blood remains sacred to Jehovah's Witnesses, who continue to view life and blood as precious gifts from God," said Paul Gillies, international spokesman for Jehovah's Witnesses. "We recognize that medical decisions regarding blood components are a matter of conscience between each Witness and their God, Jehovah."

Gillies then emphasized that Witnesses "love life and desire the best medical care available." They do not practice or resort to miraculous healing and seek medical care that is effective and respects their wishes and beliefs. "Congregations do not intervene in personal decisions, which are the responsibility of the individual's conscience. We will continue to respect and support the decisions of our fellow believers," he added.

Jehovah's Witnesses number over nine million worldwide, gathered in congregations in more than 200 countries and territories.