Using information and resources from the
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the
New York State Catholic Conference, the Diocese of Buffalo has established a
Faithful Citizenship page on this website.
From the USCCB: “(The) purpose (of Faithful Citizenship) is to help Catholics form their consciences in accordance with God's truth. We recognize that the responsibility to make choices in political life rests with each individual in light of a properly formed conscience, and that participation goes well beyond casting a vote in a particular election. During election years, there may be many handouts and voter guides that are produced and distributed. We encourage Catholics to seek those resources that are authorized by their own bishops, their state Catholic conferences, and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. This statement is intended to reflect and complement, not substitute for, the ongoing teaching of bishops in our own dioceses and states. In light of these reflections and those of local bishops, we encourage Catholics throughout the United States to be active in the political process, particularly in these challenging times. “
The NYSCC’s,
“Pastors, Parishes and Political Responsibility” document states, in part:
Permissible Church Activities
• Endorsing/opposing legislation, including ballot referenda
• Homilies/bulletin inserts on moral issues, and on the moral responsibilities of voters
• Providing educational materials on public policy issues, but not candidates, to parishioners
• Arranging for groups to meet with their elected officials to advocate for or against legislation
• Encouraging letter-writing, phone calls and other contacts with candidates and elected officials about issues
• Inviting all candidates for public office to a Church-sponsored public forum, debate, or candidates’ night
• Conducting a nonpartisan voter registration drive on Church property
• Distributing unbiased candidate questionnaires or voting records on a wide variety of issues
Prohibited Church Activities
• Endorsing/opposing candidates for political office
• Homilies/bulletin inserts regarding specific candidates
• Distributing or permitting distribution of partisan campaign literature under Church auspices or on Church property
• Arranging for groups to work for a candidate for public office
• Funding or financial support of any candidate, political action committee, or political party
• Inviting only selected candidates to address your Church-sponsored group, or permitting/hosting political meetings on Church property
• Conducting voter registration that is slanted toward one party
• Rating candidates numerically, or “favorably” or “unfavorably”
• Sharing parish resources, including mailing lists, with political campaigns or parties