by the Minnesota Catholic Conference
Election Day has passed, and leaders have been chosen at every level of government. So, what happens next? This is when the real work begins.
Responsible citizenship does not end at the voting booth. In fact, the U.S. bishops remind us that responsible citizenship is a virtue and participation in political life is a moral obligation, in their document “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.” Our faith calls us to engage in public life year-round, advocating for policies that promote human dignity, justice and the common good.
Our representative republic thrives on active engagement, especially at the local level. Decisions on issues such as education, housing and public safety are frequently made by city councils, school boards and county officials. Many of the big moral and cultural issues, such as religious liberty and bioethical matters related to the protection of human life at all stages, are decided in the State Legislature. These local bodies of government can have as much, if not more, impact on daily life than national politics do.
It is essential, therefore, for Catholics to practice faithful citizenship at the local level, where our influence can be profound and immediate.
The key to this ongoing engagement is relationships with elected officials. Yet many citizens do not know who represents them at the state or local level. If we cannot name our elected officials, how can we trust them to make laws that will positively influence society? Thus, it is vital to be in relationship with our lawmakers so we can ensure our values will be represented.
Most elected officials genuinely want to hear from their constituents. Simple actions, such as signing up for legislators’ newsletters, following local officials on social media and sending legislators a message, can create channels of communication to help start building those relationships. Even better than engaging electronically is meeting with our elected officials in person. Invite them to coffee with you, or with you and a group of friends.
A great way to begin establishing connections with elected officials is through the Minnesota Catholic Conference’s Catholic Advocacy Network (CAN). CAN members can easily join their voice with other Catholics to connect with lawmakers on important issues through emails, phone calls, or video messages. Making the Catholic voice heard on important issues is a tremendous support for the work of the bishops at the State Capitol.
Beyond advocacy, prayer is also fundamental to our mission. The Minnesota Catholic Conference invites all Catholics to participate in “Adoration at the Capitol.” Held each first Friday from January through May, this initiative provides an opportunity to bring Christ to the heart of state governance and to pray for our leaders. By praying together, we bring our hopes and intentions before God and seek the grace to persevere in our civic duties.
Faithful citizenship is gradual patient work, built brick by brick. As Alexis de Tocqueville observed, engagement in local politics is a “school of democracy.” When Catholics engage locally, we lay the groundwork for a more just and compassionate society. This commitment — to advocate, build relationships and pray — empowers us to serve the common good, renewing our communities from the ground up.
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