Andy Drozdziak
As the final push for votes takes place, Catholics are being reminded of the ‘privilege’ of voting- and to recognise their vote as an opportunity to elect people who appreciate the importance of faith to society in next week’s election.
Bishop Arnold, Lead Bishop for the Environment at the Bishops’ conference and the bishop of Salford, wrote in a letter to his Diocese this week: “We must never take this democratic freedom for granted. I urge everyone who can vote to do so. It is a privilege to vote, and I encourage each one of us to actively participate in the process.”
The bishop’s call comes as the UK faces major issues of interest to Catholics, including the legalisation of assisted suicide, abortion up to birth, migrant rights, human rights and education. Bishop Arnold underlined the importance of exploring the truth of policies and candidates’ true beliefs.
“We should be looking beyond the superficial soundbite and to the heart of matters,” he wrote. “As Catholics we can use this as an opportunity to put our faith into action, prioritising issues, policies, and politicians that reflect and share our values.”
Catholic Union Interim Director, Tristan Feunteun, commented on the unique opportunity afforded to Catholics, as a significant religious minority, to impact the political landscape through their vote.
“Catholics are the largest – and one of the most politically- and socially-minded – religious minorities in the country,” Mr Feunteun said.
“For the 4.5 million Catholics in Britain, the election is an opportunity to elect people who recognise the importance of faith to society and will work towards the common good.
“The Church has much to offer our politics and society and it is right that candidates engage with the interests and concerns of Catholics in this campaign.”
The Bishops’ Conference has offered a comprehensive guide to the election for Catholics, based on the principles of Catholic Social teaching. After once again referring to the opportunity to vote in a general election as a ‘privilege’, Cardinal Nichols underlined the importance of families as a ‘bedrock’ of society and voting for candidates who will prioritise family values.
“You want to know what your candidate will think and say on your behalf when that candidate gets into Parliament,” the Cardinal said. “I would like to put forward a theme for us all to think about. How do we seek to construct a society in which families can flourish? That’s the bedrock.”
“We seek, therefore, political leaders who can reflect and share these values. But this is not just about leaders, it is about us. We are not merely the passive recipients of politics but active citizens. An election is the best time for us as Christians to speak out, to get involved, and to lead.”
• To access the Bishops’ Conference election resources, visit www.cbcew.org.uk/election24/