St. Paul in the letter written to the Christians at Rome has these words to instruct disciples of Jesus as to their civic responsibility and duty. “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities” (Romans 13.1). Our faith and good citizenship go hand in hand and needn’t be opposed to each other. The Church recognizes that civil authority is necessary to provide order in the community, and to protect the rights of all as government ensures the common good. As sharers in this responsibly believers are called to (render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s” (Mark 12.17). I therefore want to encourage all of you to participate in the election on Monday. We are privileged to live in a society where we have the freedom to choose those who will govern our province for the next four years. The Diocese has prepared a Catholic Voting Guide (Voting Like A Catholic – Alberta.pdf – Google Drive) and A Party Platform Comparison (Alberta Election 2023 | Catholic Conscience †) that you can consult to help in prayerful discernment as you cast your vote.
Grace and blessings to you as Election Day approaches, May 29th.
Blessings,
Fr. Jonathan
