Rights and Responsibilities

Faithful Citizenship

Background
”For many years, we bishops of the United States have sought to share Catholic teaching on political life. We have done so in a series of statements issued every four years focused on “political responsibility” or “faithful citizenship”. In this document we continue that practice, maintaining continuity with what we have said in the past in light of new challenges facing our nation and world. This is not new teaching but affirms what is taught by our Bishops’ Conference and the whole Church. As Catholics, we are part of a community with a rich heritage that helps us consider the challenges in public life and contribute to greater justice and peace for all people.” From the introduction of “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, 2007

Action:

• Host a Faithful Citizenship workshop at your parish, school, or ministry (download schedule)
• Register to vote

Resources

Faithful Citizenship Workshop Flyer (Adobe® Reader Required)
Faithful Citizenship Brochure (Adobe® Reader Required)

Links:

Faithful Citizenship
FCC Election and Activities Guide

Repeated Social Teaching: “Flowing from our God-given dignity, each person has basic rights and responsibilities. These include the rights to freedom of conscience and religious liberty, to raise a family, to immigrate, to live free from unfair discrimination, and to have a share of earthly goods sufficient for oneself and one’s family. People have a fundamental right to life and to those things that make life truly human: food, clothing, housing, health care, education, security, social services, and employment. Corresponding to these rights are duties and responsibilities - to one another, to our families, and to the larger society, to respect the rights of others and to work for the common good.” CCHD, Basic Principles of Catholic Mission