Faithful Citizenship

The Catholic bishops of the United States are pleased to offer once again to the Catholic faithful Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (en Español), their teaching document on the political responsibility of Catholics. This statement represents the guidance of the Bishops for Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in our democracy. We urge pastors, lay and religious faithful, and all people of good will to use this statement to help form their consciences; to teach those entrusted to their care; to contribute to civil and respectful public dialogue; and to shape political choices in the coming election in light of Catholic teaching. The statement lifts up our dual heritage as both faithful Catholics and American citizens with rights and duties as participants in the civil order.

Catholics have a long tradition of shaping our world to protect human life, lift up the common good, promote global solidarity, and care for each other. To promote civic engagement in all ages and stages of life, a number of resources have been made available to us. 

For College Campuses and Young Adult group resources click here.
For Clergy and Liturgist resources click here.
For Catholic School and Parish Formation Program resources click here.