Forming Consciences for
Faithful Citizenship:
Catholic Resources for an Election
As Catholics, we have the great benefit of being part of a Christian community that guides us in evaluating policy, platforms, and candidates before an election. The Church reminds us of her principles of social teaching and helps us make informed decisions that will bring justice and peace to our country, state, and locality.
In light of this year’s primary election and next year’s election, we thought it would be helpful to provide a summary of the USCCB's document (below), Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, and two resources from the Diocese of Harrisburg that highlight issues that are important to us as Catholics. St. Francis Xavier Catholic Parish neither supports nor opposes any candidate for public office.
Prayer Before An Election
“Lord God, as the election approaches, we seek to better understand the issues and concerns that confront our city/state/country, and how the Gospel compels us to respond as faithful citizens in our community. We ask for eyes that are free from blindness so that we might see each other as brothers and sisters, one and equal in dignity, especially those who are victims of abuse and violence, deceit and poverty. We ask for ears that will hear the cries of children unborn and those abandoned, Men and women oppressed because of race or creed, religion or gender. We ask for minds and hearts that are open to hearing the voice of leaders who will bring us closer to your Kingdom. We pray for discernment so that we may choose leaders who hear your Word, live your love, and keep in the ways of your truth as they follow in the steps of Jesus and his Apostles and guide us to your Kingdom of justice and peace. We ask this in the name of your Son Jesus Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.”