Moral Advocacy in a Diverse Democracy

As Americans, we have a desire and an moral obligation to do what we can to strengthen our nation and society by using our God-given gifts and involvement in our democracy
to bring about as much good as possible. As Catholics, we have a rich history of contributing in many ways to the building up of our society and this country, through good citizenship, moral teaching, and a vast array of social services that are surpassed only by the government itself. Moral advocacy is not the same as imposing our beliefs on others - it is providing sound ethical guidance that serves as a conscience that is respectful of our pluralistic society.

If that is the role of all Catholics, what about the teaching authorities of our Church? Good people often differ in their opinion about the Church’s role in civil society - how much
we should say and the limits of political involvement. In a recent statement, our Archbishop, Cardinal Seán, clearly laid out the distinction between endorsing candidates and moral advocacy by clergy and others who represent the Catholic community. Please take a minute to read his statement, as this is what guides our practices in the Parishes of St. Martha and St. Mary.

There are aspects of each political party that overlap with our Catholic beliefs and morals, but each party also holds tenets that are at odds with our beliefs of what God calls us to promote in society. As our Declaration of Independence holds up the “unalienable rights [including] life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” the moral guidance of reason and faith upholds the priority of certain values in our human society as well, also starting with the protection of life, and the freedom to live our faith and “build a civilization of love.”
"The Catholic community has the right to expect the priests of the Archdiocese and those entrusted with handing on the faith to be clear and unequivocal on the Church’s teaching
concerning respect and protection for life from the first moment of conception to natural death. This teaching is of the highest priority for the Church.

“With regard to statements of the clergy and religious and laity who minister or serve in the Archdiocese of Boston, following the guidance of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, as representatives of the Archdiocese they may not endorse or oppose candidates for election or political parties.  This directive also applies to parishes and organizations directly connected to the Archdiocese.

“The teaching role of the Catholic Church brings religious and moral principles to the life of our society, our Commonwealth, and our nation. Our advocacy addresses protection of
human life at all stages and in all circumstances, including issues of social and economic equality, the pervasive influence of systemic racism and welcoming immigrants and refugees.

“Catholics are urged to play an active role in our public life and to fulfill the basic obligation of a democracy, to vote. We are called to bring the light of faith and reason to our civic
responsibilities as we strive to build a civilization of love.”