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With the many presidential and vice presidential debates that occurred over the last few weeks, many people are preparing to submit their ballot on Election Day on Tuesday, November 6.
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.
(USCCB.org)
Please remember that the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has created many helpful resources that explain faithful citizenship, forming a conscience, what our Church teaches and answering that call to participate as citizens of our nation.
Here are a few of their most recent resources and statements for your use.
USCCB Press Release
Response to Inaccurate Statement on HHS Mandate made during Vice Presidential Debate
Catholic Teaching
Links to bishops' statements and resources to explore Church teaching on Catholic participation in political life.
Videos for Faithful Citizenship
A media library created by the USCCB
Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship
Document on with helpful references and reflections
Important Message: During this election season, our parish will be utilizing materials from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship. Distribution of other election-related materials on church property, or within ministry electronic mail messages, will not be permitted. Among other activities, posting fliers or signs, passing out campaign literature, and leaving unauthorized materials anywhere in the building or on car windshields, are prohibited. We appreciate your compliance with this policy. Ministries wanting to have something for their volunteers regarding the elections should speak with their parish staff liaison or a priest first. Thank you!