As the nation prepares for the upcoming 2022 mid-term elections Nov. 8, the New Jersey Catholic Conference will offer the webinar, “Faithful Citizenship 101: A Guide to understanding Catholics’ responsibility in the Public Square,” on Oct. 20, 6:30 p.m.
This webinar is intended to provide a general overview of the United States Catholic Bishops’ document “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, A Call to Political Responsibility.”
Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, Diocese of Paterson, will offer the opening prayer and remarks. Featured speakers Anthony J. Granado, vice president of government relations for Catholic Charities USA, and James J. King, executive director of the New Jersey Catholic Conference, will discuss “Faithful Citizenship,” which focuses on the responsibilities and duties of Catholics to participate in democracy as well-informed voters.
The 2015 U.S.C.C.B. document sought to help Catholics form their consciences, apply a consistent moral framework to issues facing the nation and world, and shape their choices in elections in light of Catholic social teaching. A re-issued statement from 2019 recognizes that some challenges have become more pronounced, noting Pope Francis’ attention on migration, xenophobia, racism, abortion, global conflict and care for creation.
Webinar speakers will share tips on how to allow faith to inform politics, along with guidance on how to navigate the New Jersey Catholic Conference’s website which includes an array of resources to help better educate voters.
Click here for a link to the webinar registration.
The Diocese’s Faithful Citizenship webpage includes a message from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., a Trenton Monitor article and a link to the U.S.C.C.B. document “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.”