Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, Nov. 21, 2023

Resources coming on “Faithful Citizenship”

During their recent meeting the U.S. bishops approved a new introductory note and the production of materials supporting their document on the political responsibility of Catholics, “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.”

In the note, the bishops say: “The threat of abortion remains our pre-eminent priority because it directly attacks our most vulnerable and voiceless brothers and sisters and destroys more than a million lives per year in our country alone. Other grave threats to the life and dignity of the human person include euthanasia, gun violence, terrorism, the death penalty, and human trafficking.

“There is also the redefinition of marriage and gender, threats to religious freedom at home and abroad, lack of justice for the poor, the suffering of migrants and refugees, wars and famines around the world, racism, the need for greater access to healthcare and education, care for our common home, and more. All threaten the dignity of the human person.”

The bishops urge us to consider not only the candidates’ positions on these issues, but their character and integrity as well.

We’ll be sharing the Faithful Citizenship resources as they become available. In the meantime, you can check out sample messages and action alerts for Congress. It is our job to form our consciences and grow in the virtue of prudence.

Pregnancy help centers offer life-affirming support

Across the United States, approximately 2,750 pregnancy help centers offer life-affirming support to pregnant and parenting women in need. Some of these centers have been the targets of violence, vandalism, and an orchestrated campaign to malign their good names.

In recognition of their contribution to the common good, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, said “The U.S. bishops’ pro-life committee has consistently called for ‘radical solidarity’ with mothers in need. We commend pregnancy help centers for living this call of radical solidarity with selfless persistence and we encourage prayers for this lifesaving ministry.”

The Iowa Catholic Conference is working on proposals to improve the Iowa MOMS support program and extending Medicaid coverage for women from two months only after the birth of a child to a year.

Happy Thanksgiving and Christ the King

This coming Sunday, Nov. 26, is the Solemnity of Christ the King. It’s a good occasion in the liturgical year to promote the Church’s teaching on religious freedom.

The Iowa Catholic Conference wishes you a blessed Thanksgiving. We pray especially for those whose family situation may not be everything they want.