faith and politics

i like FB because it enables me to be in touch with all of the wonderful people that i have encountered over the years. a gift of my vocation is that the Spirit has brought into my life some really great people. they are trying to do the best they can with the cards that life has dealt. i am often humbled by the lives of these “friends” and i thank God for them. i am a better man for knowing so many wonderful people.

the reason that i do not like FB is all of the garbage that is posted that does nothing to help people live in peace, respect, wonder and awe, faith and love. this was especially true during the period that led up to the last general election in 2016 in the US. the outright lies and mean spiritedness that were posted in FB appalled me. i wanted to change in how i approached the 2020 general election. that is why i spend more time on blogging than on FB. as a society, we have lost the ability to talk politics respectfully. discussions about how government ought to operate has never been so politicized as it is now. a lot of folks leave their faith parked inside the walls of the church building. we as people have never compartmentalized ourselves like we have now. catholic teachings — especially those that do not fit our political agendas–have been disregarded. we have divided ourselves.

i found a wonderful tool from the US bishops as we prepare to vote and discuss the good for our country on https://www.wearesaltandlight.org/civilize-it. i hope that you can check it out and hopefully take the pledge. these are good guidelines that can help us try to live out our faith in light of our civic responsibility to vote.

here is the heart of the pledge:

1. Civility
To recognize the human dignity of those with whom I disagree, treat others with respect, and rise above attacks when directed at me.
 

2. Clarity
To root my political viewpoints in the Gospel and a well formed conscience, which involves prayer, conversation, study and listening. I will stand up for my convictions and speak out when I witness language that disparages others’ dignity, while also listening and seeking to understand others’ experiences. 
 

3. Compassion
To encounter others with a tone and posture which affirms that I honor the dignity of others and invites others to do the same. I will presume others’ best intentions and listen to their stories with empathy.  I will strive to understand before seeking to be understood.

( https://www.wearesaltandlight.org/civilize-it )

let us pray the Holy Spirit’s help and guidance as we strive to be people of light and love. and to make our world a place where justice, peace, hope, and the integrity of all creation flourish in the common good for all.