Sister Nancy Sylvester
The Leadership Council
Sister Margaret Alandt
As another election season approaches, we remember that casting a ballot is more than a civic duty. It is an opportunity to seek thei common good by helping shape the communities in which we live. Catholic social teaching reminds us that every person has inherent dignity and that we all have a responsibility to participate in public life. Voting is one important way to raise our voices for justice, peace, and the well-being of all our neighbors.
The Catholic Church does not tell people which candidates or political parties to support. Instead, it encourages each of us to learn about the issues, pray for wisdom, and make thoughtful decisions based on our faith and values. As we prepare to vote, we are called to think about how our choices will affect people who are struggling, strengthen families and communities, care for God’s creation, protect human dignity, promote peace and serve the common good. While Catholics may not always agree on every issue or candidate, we are all called to listen respectfully, seek the truth and use our voices to help build a more just and compassionate society.
We, Christians, cannot ‘play Pilate’ and wash our hands … We must participate in politics because politics is one of the highest forms of charity because it seeks the common good. And Christian lay people must work in politics.” -Pope Francis
Whether you vote by mail, vote early or vote on Election Day, take time to ensure you are registered, learn about the issues and candidates on your ballot using reliable, nonpartisan sources like the League of Women Voters, Ballotpedia, and US Vote Foundation, and encourage others to participate as well. By exercising both our rights and our responsibilities as citizens, we contribute to a democracy that reflects justice, compassion and the dignity of every person.