"We need to participate for the common good. Sometimes we hear: a good Catholic is not interested in politics. This is not true: good Catholics immerse themselves in politics by offering the best of themselves so that the leader can govern." - Pope Francis, 9/16/13
Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship:
A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States
The Catholic bishops of the United States are pleased to offer once again to the Catholic faithful Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (en Español), our teaching document on the political responsibility of Catholics. This statement represents our guidance for Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in our democracy. We urge our pastors, lay and religious faithful, and all people of good will to use this statement to help form their consciences; to teach those entrusted to their care; to contribute to civil and respectful public dialogue; and to shape political choices in the coming election in light of Catholic teaching. The statement lifts up our dual heritage as both faithful Catholics and American citizens with rights and duties as participants in the civil order.
Archdiocese of Indianapolis:
Pray, Learn and Act as Faithful Citizens’
On November the 3rd, the United States will hold the next elections. Much of the conversation in our communities, parishes, and families (not to mention on social media) is likely already influenced by the upcoming elections in our country. As Catholics, we must also remember to be people who are hopeful, joyful, and loving, who always remember that Christ is King and we are building His kingdom, not our own, and that each person with whom we interact is made in the image and likeness of God. It is in this spirit, that we call on all Catholic citizens of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis to commit ourselves to deeper prayer, study, and action surrounding how we live our faith in this moment in the history of our country. The ministries of Human Life and Dignity and Catholic Charities- Social Concerns will collaborate to offer the following each week for the next seven weeks: one prayer, one informational paragraph, and one action you can take to spiritually prepare yourself for the November elections.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has launched a campaign inviting Catholics to model civility and love for neighbor throughout the year.
Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debatewill ask Catholics to pledge civility, clarity, and compassion in their families, communities, and parishes, and call on others to do so as well. Find out more information and resources to share with your community at CivilizeIt.org
Catholics Participate in Public Life – USCCB Video Series
We are called to witness to Faithful Citizenship as we participate in the public square through political engagement and civil dialogue. Watch all five videos on Faithful Citizenship!
Faithful Citizenship is equally important at the state and local levels.