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Faithful Citizenship , written by the U.S. Bishops in 2007, lays out the political responsibility that we have as citizens of the United States. Through this document, the Church asks us to focus on policies and issues as they relate to justice and promotion of the dignity of all human life. This goes beyond any one agenda no matter how important it is. The Bishops state “Our focus is not on party affiliation, ideology, economics, or even competence and capacity to perform duties, as important as these issues are. Rather, we focus on what protects or threatens human life and dignity.” It means protecting the unborn and family life and helping families to overcome poverty, access to healthcare, education and employment. It means that immigration reform, human rights and ending war also need to be on the table. The U.S. Bishops provide seven themes to help us look at the big picture from the point of view of Gospel values.
These 7 Themes of Catholic Social Teaching encourage us to form our consciences and keep our focus. They are…
- Life and Dignity of the Human Person
- Call to Family, Community, and Participation,
- Rights and Responsibilities,
- Option for the Poor and Vulnerable,
- The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers
- Solidarity
- Care for God’s Creation
As Catholics, we are all called to engage in political life with an eye on the themes above. We should be informed on the key issues and know where candidates stand on issues related to these themes. It goes beyond listening to the rhetoric on television and radio and requires a bit of effort on our part to challenge our political leaders on all issues. We must educate ourselves. The links on the right provide information that helps us to form our consciences so we can make an educated vote. These links are approved by the Diocese of Austin. Only links and other information will be included that are approved by the USCCB and/or the Diocese of Austin.
Once we have educated ourselves, then we can vote. The Church does not tell us how to vote. They say their “purpose is to help us form our consciences in accordance with God’s truth.” That is the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Gospel values. He taught us that we are to love God with our whole heart and our neighbors as ourselves.
Quotes and information come from http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/
