faithful citizenship
Faith in Action
"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, Morning Meditation
The Catholic bishops of the United States offer Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship ,
a teaching document on the political responsibility of Catholics. This statement provides guidance for Catholics in exercising their rights and duties as participants in democracy. Pastors, lay and religious faithful, and all people of good will are urged to use this statement to help form their consciences, teach those entrusted to their care, contribute to civil and respectful public dialogue, and shape political choices in light of Catholic teaching. The statement highlights the dual heritage of being faithful Catholics and American citizens with rights and duties in the civil order. usccb
Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship - PDF
Formando la conciencia para ser ciudadanos fieles - PDF
Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops - The nonpartisan public policy voice of the Catholic Church in Florida
The Florida Catholic Conference (FCC) was established on February 1, 1969, to facilitate communication and collaboration on pastoral, educational, and social welfare projects in Florida. It focuses on promoting the well-being of the state's residents through health, education, and welfare activities.
On March 19, 2012, the bishops created the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops (FCCB) to handle policy and advocacy related to state and federal legislation. The FCCB, which includes the bishops of Florida's seven (arch)dioceses as its board of directors, represents the Church in public policy matters and engages with government branches.
The FCCB addresses various issues, including immigration, housing, health care, criminal justice reform, education, and life issues like abortion and euthanasia, as well as topics concerning human sexuality, marriage, and family. To read more visit their website at https://flaccb.org/
Beyond election day
Consider subscribing to Florida Catholic Advocacy Network (FLCAN)
Prayer Before Election
Lord God, as the election approaches,we seek to better understand the issues and concerns that confront our city/state/country, and how the Gospel compels us to respond as faithful citizens in our community.
We ask for eyes that are free from blindness so that we might see each other as brothers and sisters,
one and equal in dignity,
especially those who are victims of abuse and violence, deceit and poverty.
We ask for ears that will hear the cries of children unborn and those abandoned, Men and women oppressed because of race or creed, religion or gender.
We ask for minds and hearts that are open to hearing the voice of leaders who will bring us closer to your Kingdom.
We pray for discernment
so that we may choose leaders who hear your Word, live your love,
and keep in the ways of your truth as they follow in the steps of Jesus and his Apostles and guide us to your Kingdom of justice and peace.
We ask this in the name of your Son Jesus Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.