"We need to participate for the common good. Sometimes we hear: a good Catholic is not interested in politics. This is not true: good Catholics immerse themselves in politics by offering the best of themselves so that the leader can govern." - Pope Francis, 9/16/13
In the Catholic Tradition of responsible citizenship, we are morally obligated to participate in political life and to make choices based on a properly formed conscience, voting for the candidates who best support the moral teachings of our Catholic faith. As you prepare to cast your ballot for the upcoming November election, I ask that you pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit and educate yourself on the candidates’ positions on the critical issues that will affect us all, both now and in the future.
Before we are members of any political party, we must be faithful followers of Jesus, who told us “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 3:35). So, it is incumbent on us who are believers to live our Catholic faith outside the walls of our Churches, putting Christ at the center of our public lives as citizens. Our consciences must be well informed through prayer and fidelity to the teachings of the Catholic Church. Then we must vote our consciences, which I urge you to do, so that your Catholic faith will impact the moral and social fabric of our society.
Catholics Participating in Public Life
An Introduction to Civilize It
Catholic Conference of Ohio Election issues page
Catholic voters are called to properly form their consciences in preparation for voting and for the continued advocacy for just laws and policies required after voting.
Election Season Dos and Don'ts for Parishes
Check this quick guide for parishes on some simple "dos and don'ts" during the election season.
Faithful Citizenship webpage
Find resources, documents and articles on the USCCB's Faithful Citizenship campaign.
Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship document
This is the USCCB's teaching document on the political responsibility of Catholics. This statement represents our guidance for Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in our democracy.
Civilize It
This section of the USCCB website offers resources for a "better kind of politics."
Child & Youth Protection
Our promise to protect, our pledge to heal.
To report an abuse, please contact local law enforcement and:
Kathleen McComb, Victim Assistance Coordinator
Response Services – 216-334-2999
Catholic Diocese of Cleveland © 2025
Subscribe! Sign up to receive news & updates.
1 of 22