Obligation to help shape society includes politics, voting

It’s a call to engage in the community, make a difference as Catholics, let convictions and voices be heard.

 

The U.S. bishops’ teaching document on Catholics’ political responsibility, “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship,” also can help clarify and prioritize issues, contribute to dialogue, shape political choices and promote a more loving and just world. It’s only 42 pages, and it can be found online at usccb.org. Simply type “faithful citizenship” into the search engine. 

 

With that document top of mind, the Catholic Voice this year is extending its coverage of elections by looking through the lens of faith and church teaching at several specific races in the Nov. 6 general election. 

 

Beginning in this issue and continuing until the election, senior writer Mike May and news editor Joe Ruff will talk with candidates, learn about some of their policy positions in light of the Gospel and share what we learn.

 

With the challenge of time, and space in the newspaper, the Catholic Voice can’t do this with every race. But voters can apply the same discipline or technique to whatever race draws their attention – at the national, state and local levels.

 

And in the Oct. 19 edition, the Nebraska Catholic Conference (NCC), representing the public policy interests of Archbishop George J. Lucas and Bishops James D. Conley of Lincoln and Joseph G. Hanefeldt of Grand Island, will publish its Catholic voter guide, providing candidate stances on important issues.