By Cardinal Justin Rigali (January 2004)
Among our many responsibilities to the faithful of this Archdiocese is our duty to encourage them to be active citizens in our democracy. However, we do not encourage their activism for personal or partisan gain; rather we urge their participation so that traditional, timeless, Judeo-Christian values may be more fully lived in our nation. The bishops of the United States call this participation "Faithful Citizenship."
During this month, you will receive information packets from the USCCB regarding the 2004 "Faithful Citizenship" program, including our quadrennial statement on the issues, priorities and challenges facing our nation in this presidential election year. Our statement reaffirms our role: "In the Catholic tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue; participation in the political process is an obligation."
Our efforts in America – where our democracy affords us powerful opportunities to effect our government's direction – are wholly consistent with guidance from the Holy See. In 2003 the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith issued its "Doctrinal Note on some questions regarding the participation of Catholics in political life," stating: "democracy ... succeeds only to the extent that it is based on a correct understanding of the human person."
I urge you to continue to lead your parishioners by the example of your own faithful citizenship. To assist you in your efforts, I encourage you to contact the Office for Public Affairs. The staff can assist with your efforts and answer your questions about candidates, issues, legislation and voting information. Please contact th eoffice at 215-587-3509. I look forward to working with you to promote "Faithful Citizenship" throughout our Archdiocese.