Catholic Conference of Ohio
Saturday, April 27, 2024

Faithful Citizenship

Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship

The Catholic bishops of the United States created Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, a teaching document on the political responsibility of Catholics. All the faithful, and people of good will, are encouraged to use the statement to help form their consciences, contribute to civil and respectful public dialogue, and shape political choices in the coming election in light of Catholic teaching. The statement lifts up our dual heritage as both faithful Catholics and American citizens with rights and duties as participants in the civil order.


Role of the Church in Political Life

"The direct duty to work for a just ordering of society is proper to the lay faithful." 
- Pope Benedict XVI

We are responsible for learning more about Catholic teachings and traditions and seeking trustworth sources about the issues facing our communities. By forming our consciences, we can better pursue the common good and thus obey the command of our Lord to love our neighbors. 


Bringing our Faith to Public Policy 

Form Your Conscience - read "Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship" from the U.S. Catholic Conference of Bishops.

Activate Your Right to Vote - help build a civilization of truth and love by voting, using the Church's moral and social teaching as your guide.

Advocate for Laws - contact your legislators to express your support of or opposition to current legislation using Action Alerts from the Catholic Conference of Ohio (Sign up here)

Resources
USCCB Materials on Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship

Upcoming Events:


Civilize It: Unifying a Divided Church
Virtual Event - May 14, 3 pm, ET
Join Cardinal Robert McElroy, Bishop Robert Barron and Bishop Daniel Flores as they dialogue with one another on the challenge of polarization in the Church today and the path forward. The conversation will include reflections on their roles as shepherds and leaders in their dioceses and in the U.S. Church, and on important topics such as the Synod on Synodality, encounter, and where to find hope amid the polarization. Gloria Purvis, renowned Catholic speaker and host of The Gloria Purvis Podcast from America Magazine, moderates the conversation. This virtual event is co-sponsored by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholic Charities USA, Glenmary Home Missioners, and the Jesuit Conference. Watch Livestream Here >