As Catholics, we must never be afraid of bringing our faith into the public square. However, because the Church is not a political entity, we must make sure that our individual advocacy efforts are kept distinct from the Church’s teaching voice. This election resource, created in July 2016, provides guidelines for parish and diocesan political activity, clearly laying out which activities are prohibited and which are permissible.

Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship

“Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship” is the official Election Year teaching of the U.S. Catholic bishops. This resource provides guidance for Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in our democracy, lifting up our dual heritage as both faithful Catholics and American citizens. The Faithful Citizenship webpage includes additional resources, such as bulletin inserts and informational videos.

• Copies can be ordered through the USCCB Store.
• Download a 2-page summary to use in your parish bulletin.

Living the Gospel of Life: A Challenge to American Catholics

Read through “Living the Gospel of Life: A Challenge to American Catholics“. Originally released in 1998 by the USCCB, “Living the Gospel of Life” is still a viable election resource for American Catholics looking to form their consciences in preparation for elections in 2020. It contextualizes our present-day policy debates within deeper shifts and trends in society’s consideration of human life and dignity.

Copies can be ordered through the USCCB Store.

2020 Election Staff Reflections

• Forming Our Conscience for Election 2020: Highlighting the Need for Solidarity

• Election 2020: A Reflection by Minnesota Catholic Conference Staff

Election Novena

Visit our Novena page to find great videos, prayers, reflections, and discernment questions.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FROM OUR ARCHIVE

Bridge Builder Podcast

Faith in the Public Arena

• Mother Teresa and Conscience Formation

• Power Politics vs. Faithful Citizenship

• Promoting the Common Good is Not a Spectator Sport

• (Civic) Friendship is an Apostolate

• The Big Question: What’s a good Catholic voter to do?

Inform Your Vote

• Plan A Town Hall at your parish! Ahead of the November 3^rd elections, create the opportunity for Catholics in your legislative district to form their consciences and faithfully inform their vote. Host a candidate town hall!

The Secretary of State’s website provides a number of helpful election resources to get you ready for Election Day. Visit the links below.

• Which Candidates and Issues are on My Ballot?
• Find My Polling Location
• Letter to Employers about Right to Vote
• Same-Day Registration Information
• Further Minnesota Election Resources

Transform Our State

Catholic Advocacy Network

Join the Catholic Advocacy Network to easily take action and stay informed on issues, policies, and legislation throughout the year. This is an easy way to let your legislators know about issues that are important to you.