Have you noticed that we have a big election coming up soon? (Yes, that was sarcasm as I am not sure how any American can be unaware even if he/she avoids TV, radio, and social media.) Hopefully, you are also aware that the Diocese of Youngstown* is sponsoring two sessions on Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship. Perhaps you have already even registered for the free event (please do so we can have adequate materials prepared for the afternoon and evening sessions.) As a young adult, perhaps you have not yet voted, or you never heard that the Catholic Church has suggestions on how we can try to balance our beliefs with our civic duty. "In the Catholic Tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation," according to the U.S. Catholic bishops (Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, No. 13). First of all, please know that Faithful Citizenship is NOT a sample ballot with boxes checked off for the candidates for whom you should vote. No, these are guidelines for your consideration, deep reflection and prayer. Recall that Jesus often taught in parables which elicited the same needs for thought before a decision could be made. It is not easy.... but it is worth the effort. If you are unable to participate in one of the September 21st sessions referenced above, please know that there are online resources to support your journey. A few pages to note include: Read and reflect upon the bulletin inserts (if your parish does not use them, you can download your own!) There are two that summarize the U.S. Bishops' document, one instructing on how to communicate with your elected officials, and a couple backgrounders like this one on Civil Dialogue: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/parishes-and-schools/upload/Civil-Dialogue-bulletin-insert.pdf ------------------ You can watch a video to learn more about the Bishops' document: bcove.me/cdya02wu (also available in Spanish, as are many of the written resources!) ------------------- Questions to discuss over coffee (or other beverage of your choice): www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/coffee-discussion-guide.cfm -------------- Ideas for parish young adult ministries and collaboratives: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/campuses-and-young-adults/ideas-for-ministry-to-young-adults.cfm ----------- Session plans for adult faith formation/small Christian communities: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/adult-education-and-small-faith-community-sharing-on-the-topic-of-faithful-citizenship.cfm ------------- You can pray for others around the country during the Novena -- listen to the podcasts or read the text: www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/prayers/novena-for-faithful-citizenship.cfm ------------- And this is the website for even more resources to assist you form youth conscience as a faithful citizen: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/?mc_cid=b106812cd2&mc_eid=9a210a65da -------------------- May God bless your journey. For the people of the United States, that we may be united in building a society in which everyone can have the opportunity to live with dignity and hope, we pray to the Lord. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ *September 21st events sponsored by The Catholic Diocese of Youngstown Offices of: Campus Ministry, Catholic Charities, Catholic Schools, Continuing Education for Priests, CTNY, Lay Ministry Formation, Pro-Life, Marriage and Family, Permanent Diaconate, Religious Education, Social Action, Vocations, Worship, & Youth and Young Adult Ministry
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*** Note: The Office Blog is now inactive, but posted for continued reference as needed (6/30/21) ***Cindee Case, MPSFormer Director of the Diocese of Youngstown Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry (2/2002 - 6/2021) Archives
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