Election Guidance for this Weekend

(Sent to all priests nationwide, October 2002)

1. Pursuant to the request of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in their Pastoral Plan for Pro-life Activities (November 2001) that a prayer for life be offered at every Mass, we provide the following petition for this Sunday's General Intercessions:

That as we exercise the privilege of voting for our elected officials this Tuesday, our choices may reflect the Gospel of Life, Justice, and Peace, we pray to the Lord.

2. Moreover, the following can serve as a bulletin insert, based on this Sunday's readings, and a suggested launching point for the homily:

The lesson on self-exaltation and humility in today's Gospel applies to those we shall elect to public office on November 5. The first role of elected officials is to know their place. They are servants of the people, not masters. They are called to guard human rights, not to grant them. They are to be advocates for the helpless, not their oppressors.

Government got "too involved" in abortion when it pretended to have the right to deprive the unborn of personhood. Candidates who support the "right to abortion" actually support a concept of government that sets itself above intrinsic human rights. More is at stake here than the legality of a medical procedure. What is at stake is whether government serves us or destroys us.
Please vote on November 5. For candidate and other information, visit www.priestsforlife.org/elections .

3. Many individuals distribute voter guides this weekend. It is their constitutional right to do so on public property, despite the proximity of that property to the parish Church. We hope you will not allow any unfounded fears to discourage their initiative in actively fulfilling their political responsibilities.

4. Some parish communities offer rides for people who cannot get to the polls, or assistance in watching small children while their parents vote. We encourage you to offer this non-partisan service on Election Day.

5. Finally, please urge your people to get out and vote. For further information, including candidates' positions, see www.priestsforlife.org/elections .

This page was faxed from 718-980-6515. List not maintained by Priests for Life, but by P.J.Kenedy Co..