Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship
A Call to Political Responsibility from
the Catholic Bishops of the United States

Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States is a statement urges Catholics to be involved in public life and to use the values of their faith to shape their political choice.

The church’s role in helping Catholics to form their consciences is a central theme of the document. “With this foundation,” the bishops explain, “Catholics are better able to evaluate policy positions, party platforms, and candidates’ promises and action in light of the Gospel and the moral and social teaching of the Church in order to help build a better world.”

The bishops call Catholics to a different kind of political engagement shaped by the moral convictions of well-formed consciences and focused on the dignity of every human being, the pursuit of the common good, and the protection of the weak and the vulnerable.” They add, “Participation in political life in light of fundamental moral principles is an essential duty for every Catholic and all people of good will.”

Click here to read or download Faithful Citizenship (en español)
Click here for a 2-page bulletin announcement about Faithful Citizenship (en español)
Click here for the USCCB Faithful Citizenship web page (en español)

More Tools

TCC Legislative Priorities for 80th Legislative Session

Guidelines for Pastors and Parishes on Advocacy and Political Participation

2007 Political Activity Guidelines for Catholic Organizations
USCCB

Doctrinal note on some questions regarding the participation of Catholics in political life
Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith

Texas Catholic Voice mailing list sign up form (can be faxed to TCC)