When I am asked to speak about our faith in public life, I often recall the four “Cs”:

Courage - Do what is right no matter what.
Compassion - Be mindful of other’s needs.
Civility/Courtesy - Show others respect.
Calm - Above all, Trust in God.

As we move into the local, regional and national election season I expect all of our parishioners to conduct ourselves with these four Cs in mind. This is true of in-person conversations, but also those that happen online, on social media, or by email. Please take some time to inform yourselves of all the issues facing our city, region and nation.

1. First, be sure you are registered to vote, and aware of any and all issues on the ballot for local elections at www.stlouis-mo.gov. 
   
2. Next, inform yourself of all major pieces of legislation and our Catholic faith. You can use www.mocatholic.org as a reputable source of information on all issues. 
3. Prayerfully reflect on Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, the teaching document of the U.S. Catholic bishops on the political responsibility of Catholics. The statement helps Catholics to form their consciences, to learn about Catholic social teaching on important issues, to contribute to civil and respectful public dialogue, and to shape political choices in light of Catholic teaching.
   
4. Check out this video from Fr. Kevin Schroeder and Fr. Jacob Braun about our Catholic Faith and Voting, as it relates to Amendment 3 in Missouri. 
   
5. Finally, please be sure to exercise your right to vote on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. 

Making a plan to vote honors our dual identities as both faithful Catholics, and as American citizens with rights and duties as participants in the civil order.

Additional resources:

A Message from the Archbishop