Deciding who or what proposals to vote for in an election involves more than witty sound bites or media hype. This website is designed to offer young adults an opportunity to intelligently examine the relevant issues in the public square from a Catholic faith perspective.

As Catholics we understand that voting is part of our duty and calling by Christ to transform the world in which we live to reflect the Gospel values in the laws of the land and for the good of all humanity. When we vote, we are bearing witness to the Christian values we hold dear because of our deep relationship with Christ. Therefore, it is necessary to be aware of the way those values impact our assessment of the issues and candidates’ positions. By taking the time to know the issues, appraise them through the eyes of our Catholic faith, and cast our vote, we are authentically and intentionally embodying our call as Christians to build up the Kingdom of God.

With the current political system, voting authentically by our Christian moral compass becomes more difficult. Realizing that political parties and candidates (usually) do not wholly embrace the full spectrum of our Catholic Social teaching, we must discern, with guidance from the Holy Spirit, the teaching office of the Church and prayerful dialogue how to negotiate the inconsistencies that exist. While we do not limit ourselves to voting on any singular issue alone, for that negates the fullness of our Catholic teaching, we must also understand that not every issue bears equal weight in moral consideration.  

There are many pamphlets and websites out there addressing the issue of voting faithfully or forming a Catholic vote - be wary of those who focus on singular issues without addressing the whole of our teaching, or those that endorse specific parties or candidates. The Church, in her wisdom, refrains from endorsements and narrowly focusing on singular issues that do not give light to the whole of the Gospel message of Christ. That is not to say that the Church may not lift up one or more issues above the rest that are of particular grave concern at a given time, but she will not do so at the exclusion of the others. 

Luckily, for help as we struggle through this process of discernment, the US Bishops have given us the Faithful Citizenship document which addresses the hierarchy of truths, the basic principles of political participation, the themes of social teaching and moral guidance on specific issues which pose the greatest challenge at this time for voters of faith. In addition, this site will continue to host discussions and reflections on the issues, especially the more volatile ones, to foster deeper thought and prayer prior to election day. To participate in these discussions, visit The Forum for rules of dialogue and topics of discussion.