“A Catholic cannot vote for a candidate who favors a policy promoting an intrinsically evil act, such as abortion, euthanasia, assisted suicide . . . racist behavior, if the voter’s intent is to support that position” (emphasis added). This is called “formal cooperation in grave evil” (para. 34). Such decisions should consider a candidate’s commitments, character, integrity and ability to influence a given issue.
It is important to realize that the political choices faced by citizens impact not only general peace and prosperity, but an individual’s salvation. In his reflections on the Eucharist as “a sacrament of charity,” Pope Benedict XVI called us to “a Eucharistic form of life.” This means that the love we encounter in the Eucharist should shape our thoughts, words and decisions, including those that pertain to the social order.
Read Forming Consciences for Faith Citizenship in English and Spanish. See additional resources on the Maryland Catholic Conference web site. St. Francis parishioners are likely to live in congressional districts 3, 6 and 8. Look up your congressional representative.
As U.S. citizens, our most important duty is to vote. In 2022, Maryland voters will choose a new governor, one U.S. Senator, all U.S. Representatives, and state senators and delegates. Voters in Montgomery County will also choose a new county executive and County Council members. The Maryland General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 8.