Join fellow Minnesota Catholics for Capitol 101, a morning of education in advocacy at the State Capitol in St. Paul. Minnesota Catholic Conference has organized three learning sessions: Feb. 26, March 16 and April 17; each runs from 9 a.m. to noon.
“The purpose of Capitol 101 is to empower Catholics and to demystify the process of what really happens in the Legislature,” said Rachel Herbeck, MCC policy and outreach coordinator.
“This is a toolkit to help us to be missionary disciples in the public arena,” she said. “Participants will learn the ins and outs of what goes on at the State Capitol, such as how an idea becomes law, and hear from legislators about how to make a difference.
“Being involved in public policy decisions will help Catholics to reorder our society so that all people can flourish — the poor the elderly, the least of us,” she added.
Last year, MCC organized a first-ever Catholics at the Capitol event in St. Paul that drew more than 1,000 participants from around the state.
This year’s three smaller “101” sessions will offer more detailed education, Herbeck said. “It’s been amazing to have a thousand people for Catholics at the Capitol. That event will return in 2019.”
“101” participants will receive an overview of the legislative process.
They will learn how to be faithful citizens and what the MCC has identified as key issues on this year’s legislative agenda.
“Last year people told us they wished others had come — a spouse, neighbors or their high school children,” Herbeck said. “We hope the people who attended are empowered to return. And we hope they invite others who would be inspired by the day. New people would get the lay of the land, and those returning are a step up into leadership.”
On the MCC Capitol 101 page, there is a button to schedule time to meet with legislators. The site also includes prayers in preparation for the event, frequently asked questions and maps and parking information.
A more detailed agenda will be provided as the events get nearer.
Registration is capped at 100 and closes one week prior to each event date.
Pre-registration is required for these free events. A free will offering will be accepted.
For more information or to register, visit www.mncatholic.org/Capitol-101 or call 651-227-8777.
“Join us before or after the main program to pray together for legislators,” Herbeck said. “Being involved in Capitol 101 is a call for each and every Catholic to fulfill the call of the Gospel and of Christ.”