September 29, 2008

Guest: Bishop Richard Pates of the Diocese of Des Moines
Featured Saint of the Day: Feast of the Archangels: Gabriel, Raphael and Michael

Today Deacon Rick and Jenny spoke with Bishop Richard Pates of the Diocese of Des Moines about the document issued by the Conference of Catholic Bishops on Faithful Citizenship. Bishop Pates outlined the document for us this morning.

Bishop Pates told us that there are two main aims to this document. The first being to stress the importance of solemnly forming your conscience. This is done through the Natural Law, the Ten Commandments, the teachings of the Gospels, and through the ongoing teaching of the Magisterium. The second aim of the document is to address the question "How does my conscience affect my vote?"

Bishop Pates told us that the Conference of Catholic Bishops drew upon seven themes for this election to consider. The first and most fundamental theme is that of the Right to Life. From this issue all others find their value. The second theme is that of the Family through community participation. The third theme is that of Rights and Responsibilities. This theme is based on the dignity of the human person, and that all persons ought to have their rights preserved. The fourth theme is that of service to the Poor and Vulnerable of our society. Bishop Pates called upon the words of Pope Benedict XVI who in Deus Caritas Est said, "Love for the (poor) is as essential as preaching the Gospel." The fifth theme is one of the Dignity of Workers and the Right to Work. Bishop Pates reminded us that the economy exists for human need, not the other way around. The sixth theme is that of Soliderity with our brothers and sisters around the world. The final theme is that of caring for God's Creation.

These themes reflect our Christian identity. Bishop Pates noted how politicians these days draw their votes from what people think they need. He said that there is a need for politicians to move toward a more selfless approach to lobbying for votes. This document from the Conference of Catholic Bishops points to the hope that change is possible. It is a document that reflects on our falues of a common good, and as such it is a document meant for all. In this document the Bishops don't tell you how to vote, but merely how to consider the issues through divine light.

If you would like to read the document or find out more on voting you can go to:
www.faithfulcitizenship.org

This weekend October 5, 2008 is the Life Chain. To find a Life Chain near you you can go to:
www.lifechain.net