US Bishops issue document on politics ahead of presidential election

Catholics Care. Catholics Vote.

"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, 9/16/13

The Catholic bishops of the United States are offering once again to the Catholic faithful: 'Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship', a teaching document on the political responsibility of Catholics. This statement represents guidance for Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in US democracy. The bishops urge "pastors, lay and religious faithful, and all people of good will to use this statement to help form their consciences; to teach those entrusted to their care; to contribute to civil and respectful public dialogue; and to shape political choices in the coming election in light of Catholic teaching."

They say: "The statement lifts up our dual heritage as both faithful Catholics and American citizens with rights and duties as participants in the civil order."

To read: Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship see: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/forming-consciences-for-faithful-citizenship-title.cfm