As the nation gears up for the 2024 election, the Minnesota Catholic Conference has released a video where the state’s bishops encourage Catholics to reflect on “the virtue of faithful citizenship.”
“As Catholics, our spiritual life and public life are not separate,” said Archbishop Bernard Hebda of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.
Bishop Andrew Cozzens of the Diocese of Crookston explained that while national elections attract significant attention, state and local elections “directly impact the quality of life of our families and our communities.”
The bishops highlighted several key issues for voters to consider, such as the protection of life from conception, respect for religious liberty, and the right to free speech and assembly.
The bishops also touched upon economic issues, urging fiscal responsibility to avoid burdening families with inflation and debt. At the state level, they called for opposition to assisted suicide, support for economic security, stewardship of the state’s natural resources, and parental rights in education.
“As we discern our choices, let us remember that no candidate is likely to align fully with our positions,” said Cozzens. “Although we may not find a presidential candidate, for example, who aligns with all our values, that’s not an excuse to abstain from voting altogether. There is a full ballot of candidates, each with the potential to shape our communities and our future.”
