What is the obligation of a Catholic living in a democratic nation? The Catechism (2239-2240) makes clear that voting in elections is a moral duty: It is the duty of citizens to contribute along with the civil authorities to the good of society in a spirit of truth, justice, solidarity, and freedom … Submission to authority and co-responsibility for the common good make it morally obligatory to pay taxes, to exercise the right to vote, and to defend one’s country. As Americans prepare for the upcoming midterm elections on November 3, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) shared a special message reminding Catholics that “voting is both a right and a responsibility.” Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the USSCB, urged Catholics to vote and to “put their faith before politics” in making their voting decisions.  In a time of deep political division, the temptation is to be discouraged and to not participate in Read More…

Bishops’ message to Catholics: Get out and vote