Forming Your Conscience Before Voting
As Catholics, our faith teaches us to approach every decision with an informed and reflective conscience. This principle is especially crucial when it comes to voting – a powerful way to contribute to and uphold our Catholic principles. Over the next 6 weeks, we will publish a series of articles written by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to help educate us on the role of the church in public life, and the importance of our principles:
- The Worth and Dignity of Every Human Life: Every human being is created in the image of God and deserves respect and protection.
- The Common Good: The common good refers to conditions that allow people to reach their full potential and flourish as individuals and communities.
- Solidarity: Solidarity is the virtue of recognizing and responding to the needs of others, particularly those who are suffering or in need.
- Subsidiarity: This principle holds that decisions should be made at the most local level possible.
Conscience is more than just a personal feeling; it’s an inner sense of moral judgment that helps us discern right from wrong. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, conscience is “a judgment of reason whereby the human person recognizes the moral quality of a concrete act.” It’s a guide that helps us make ethical decisions in light of our faith and moral principles.
Over the next six weeks, I invite you to read and reflect on these articles. This may not be an easy task. These articles will not magically lead you to an answer. Rather they will remind you of our responsibilities to our country and its people. In addition to reading and internalizing the forthcoming information – here are some other things you can do to form your conscience.
- Educate Yourself: Research the candidates and their positions on key issues. Look beyond sound bites and campaign slogans.
- Pray and Reflect: Ask for guidance through prayer and reflection. Seek wisdom from Scripture, Church teachings, and the Holy Spirit to align your values with your vote.
- Consult Church Teachings: Refer to documents such as Gaudium et Spes (The Church in the Modern World) and The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church for insights into how faith informs political and social issues.
- Discuss with Others: Engage in respectful discussions with fellow Catholics and trusted advisors. This can provide new perspectives and help clarify your thinking.
- Consider the Long-Term Impact: Think about how the decisions you make today will affect future generations. Vote with an eye toward sustainable solutions that will benefit society in the long run.
Voting is not just a civic duty but a moral one.
By forming your conscience with a commitment to human dignity and the common good, you help build a more just and compassionate society. As you prepare to vote, let your choices reflect the core values of our faith.
May God Bless You as you consider and pray over the challenging issues and decisions we face in this upcoming election.
~Deacon Peter LeTourneau
To read the complete USCCB document, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility,” which provides a framework for Catholics in the United States, CLICK HERE
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