Event helps make our voices heard on important issues facing the state

As Catholics, we have the duty to be informed, stay engaged and make our voices heard in politics. The Gospel demands no less from us. While this is a formidable task, our Lord provides grace-filled opportunities we need to be salt and light for our political society as we seek to build the common good.

One of those opportunities is Catholics at the Capitol, scheduled for March 21 at St. Mary Church in Lincoln (14th and K streets). The event begins with free registration at 8:30 am – coffee and donuts will be served. The program starts at 9 a.m. and concludes with Mass at 12:10 p.m.

Catholics at the Capitol is a legislative day sponsored by the Nebraska Catholic Conference (NCC). We hope this event will inform and equip, as well as inspire Catholics of Nebraska to take action on some of the political issues that matter most to us.

The day will begin with a welcome and opening remarks from Bishop Joseph G. Hanefeldt of Grand Island. He will address our fundamental call and spiritual duty to be faithful citizens.

NCC staff will then provide legislative updates. Michael McHale, general counsel/policy analyst, will discuss important issues about education choice and how we can ensure all students in Nebraska have access to the school of their choice.

Jeff Kanger, associate director for pro-life and family, will highlight critical issues regarding the dignity of human life, especially of the unborn and those approaching the end of life.

I will speak on other issues, such as religious liberty and preferential option for the poor, and our newest staff member, Lauren Garcia, communications/outreach specialist, will share how the NCC can assist you in being of maximum service to your communities, especially your parish community.

Our keynote presenters will be Lt. Gov. Mike Foley and former state Sen. Tony Fulton. As men striving to live as faithful citizens in their respective roles in the political sphere, Lt. Gov. Foley and Sen. Fulton will share how we can be more politically informed, politically active and politically effective as Catholics.

Rooted in their personal experience and many years of involvement in politics, they will share practical wisdom to support our work to advance the truth, goodness and beauty of the Gospel.

After these presentations, we will move to the Capitol to watch the Legislature in action. Attendees will meet with state senators to express gratitude for their public service, while also making their voices and concerns heard.

Even if you are now just hearing about Catholics at the Capitol, please consider attending – and inviting family, friends and fellow parishioners. This event gives us – as Catholics – a moment to stand in solidarity with one another and to be informed and equipped to make a change.

Christ has called us to be his hands and feet, to enter more deeply into his mission and bring liberty to the captive, freedom to the oppressed, drink to the thirsty, clothing to the naked. Catholics at the Capitol provides just that opportunity as we seek to establish justice and peace on earth.

An RSVP is requested at info@necatholic.org or 402-477-7517. See you at Catholics at the Capitol. For those unable to attend, keep us in your prayers.

Tom Venzor is executive director of the Nebraska Catholic Conference, with headquarters in Lincoln. Contact him at tvenzor@necatholic.org.