By Cardinal Justin Rigali (April 2004)
In the midst of an era marked by much social and political change and upheaval, Blessed John XXIII recognized that the Catholic Church needed to engage more actively in dialogue with the modern world. The visionary pontiff realized that the world, caught up in a climate of confusion, would benefit greatly from all that the Church had to offer, namely the good news of Jesus Christ, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
In convoking Vatican Council II, Blessed John XXIII reminded the world that the Catholic Church has been and remains a driving influence in the history of the world and in the development of culture. Vatican Council II also emphasized the significant contribution of the lay faithful, who carry the presence of Jesus Christ into the marketplace, as well as into the social and political spheres.
The Council, in its Decree on the Apostolate of Lay People, teaches: "On the national and international planes the field of the apostolate is vast; and it is there that the laity more than others are channels of Christian wisdom. In their patriotism and in their fidelity to their civic duties Catholics will feel themselves bound to promote the true common good; they will make the weight of their convictions so influential that as a result civil authority will be justly exercised and laws will accord with the moral precepts and the common good.
"Catholics versed in politics and, as should be the case, firm in the faith and Christian teaching, should not decline to enter public life; for a worthy discharge of their functions, they can work for the common good and at the same time prepare the way for the Gospel" (Apostolicam Actuositatem, 14).
This prophetic teaching of Vatican II is highly appropriate for the political circumstances of contemporary America. A number of volatile issues dominate the political climate of our day, and, by exercising their right to vote, Catholics have an opportunity to influence society for the better.
Unfortunately, today, many Catholics have separated their political views from their faith. As an example, while a Catholic is opposed to abortion, he feels that it is acceptable to support a candidate who favors pro-abortion legislation. This dichotomy, the separation of politics from faith and morality, allows the erosion of the moral foundations of society.
Jesus declared to his disciples, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father" (Mt 5: 13-16).
These words of Jesus echo through the ages as a poignant reminder that those who follow him are called to make a difference. We cannot hide the truth of the gospel. Nor can we diminish the impact on the common good which we Catholics can make through the responsible exercise of our civic duties.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has published a resource entitled, "Faithful Citizenship: A Catholic Call to Political Responsibility," which has been provided to all pastors and parochial administrators.
The material serves as a guide for parish leaders to remind the faithful of their right to vote and of the serious responsibility which we have, as mandated by Jesus, to transform society for the better. This resource identifies moral principles about which Catholics should be informed when exercising the right to vote.
As Catholics, we hold in highest priority the right to life and our duty to defend human life. This principle applies to the protection of unborn children as well as the Church's opposition to embryonic stem cell research, cloning, assisted suicide, euthanasia and the death penalty.
We oppose so-called "same-sex marriage" as we consistently uphold marriage as defined between a man and a woman and we promote family life as the stabilizing factor in society.
We acknowledge the need to serve the poor and vulnerable, as we also work to promote the dignity of workers and the protection and well-being of children.
As Catholics, we also seek the way of peace by practicing global solidarity. Further, we acknowledge the importance of proper stewardship over creation by appropriate care for the environment.
The various media remind us that 2004 is a significant election year. I remind all Catholics of the importance of the right to vote as well as of the duty to participate in the election process. I also encourage all Catholics to be familiar with pertinent issues, as well as with the views and integrity of candidates for public office. In particular, I emphasize to all Catholics the need to vote according to a properly-formed conscience.
Catholics can make a difference. Not only should they know the issues which affect society, but also they should know that the truth of Jesus Christ and his gospel can and will transform society.