The Wisconsin Catholic Conference (WCC) recently shared the bishops’ view on how Catholics should approach their citizenship as we approach the election season. 

The first portion of a new series delves into a number of topics including how to form our conscience, the life and dignity of the human person, as well as issues of poverty and economic justice, immigration, solidarity and religious freedom, and finally marriage, family and care for creation. WCC Executive Director Kim Vercauteren pointed to the importance of using our voice as Catholics to help maintain moderation in an age where polarization is the normal tendency. 

“I hope these resources motivate Catholics to deepen their understanding of Catholic social teaching and get engaged, not just around elections, but throughout the year,” Vercauteren wrote. 

Kim Vercauteren | https://www.wisconsincatholic.org/

Wisconsin’s bishops said that these issues are of incredible importance as society continues to evolve, and the Church must remain stalwart in matters of faith and morality. 

“Even as we face personal challenges, we are called to look for ways to help those in need,” the bishops stated in a WCC press release. “We cannot forget those whose isolation caused by cruelty is constant and will extend beyond a time of pandemic. Now is the time to act on behalf of those who through abortion, xenophobia, racism, poverty and materialism, society fails to recognize as fully human. May we use what we have learned during recent challenges to better model the love of Christ in what we say and do.”

The bishops also urge Catholics to be diligent in prayer, formation, conversing about issues of importance and acting. 

“As in years past, the WCC materials are based on the U.S. Bishops’ statement, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States,” the release stated.