During
the entire year and during campaign seasons the U.S. Catholic Bishops call
attention to issues with significant moral implications that should be carefully
considered as each of us moves through our lives. The Bishops talk about issues
because the Church does not endorse specific candidates or political parties
and frankly, there is no candidate or political party that fully represents
Catholic teaching on these issues. Regardless of the “different ways people of
good will choose to apply and act on these issues,” we as Catholics cannot
ignore the moral challenges presented by these same issues nor can we simply
dismiss the Church’s guidance that flows from the principles of human dignity.
As
we consider our stand on life issues, we are called to embrace the concept that
taking a pro-life stance in our life means standing against abortion, cloning, the
destruction of human embryos, assisted suicide, issues of war and terrorism,
torture, and the death penalty. We
remember the bishops’ call “for greater assistance for those who are sick and
dying, through health care for all” and compassionate end-of-life care. “Respect
for human life and dignity is also the foundation for essential efforts to
address and overcome the hunger, disease, poverty, and violence that take the
lives of so many people.” The bishops recognize that effectively
addressing this complex issue will require collaboration between the public and
private sectors, across party lines and also between individuals.
The
bishops’ document Forming Consciences for
Faithful Citizenship goes even further to say that “Catholics must also
work to avoid war and to promote peace. Nations should protect the dignity of
the human person and the right to life by finding more effective ways to
prevent conflicts, to resolve them by peaceful means, and to promote
reconstruction and reconciliation in the wake of conflicts. Nations have a
right and an obligation to defend human life and the common good against
terrorism, aggression, and similar threats while at the same time believing
that war always should be a last resort.
As
disciples of the Risen Lord, we are called to promote a culture of life by
supporting laws and programs that address poverty, provide health care, and
offer assistance to those in need. These are not only moral imperatives, but
national priorities. As faithful citizens, we address these concerns through
our own words and actions. Through respectful dialogue and our vote, we can
influence those who serve us in public office.
From
Forming Consciences for Faithful
Citizenship, USCCB
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