Canadian bishops urge Catholics to vote based on conscience and hope

Ahead of the April 28 federal election, Canada's bishops have encouraged Catholics to vote with hope, guided by conscience and rooted in faith, particularly emphasizing the right to life, care for the vulnerable, and protection of religious freedom. In a letter from the Permanent Council of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, faithful were urged to reflect on challenges facing the country with hope and a vision for the future.

The bishops stated, "In a free and democratic society, all those eligible to vote have not only a right, but also a responsibility to engage with local candidates and political parties." They highlighted the importance of policies that serve the common good, quoting "Gaudium et Spes," by noting these should allow people to attain their own perfection.

Attention was drawn to issues like the right to life, which are affected by a lack of legal protection for the unborn, expanded eligibility for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), and insufficient access to quality palliative care. Catholics were urged to advocate for the most vulnerable, including those living in poverty, victims of human trafficking, and others in need of social and legal support.

The bishops also expressed concern over "growing intolerance toward religious communities in Canada," including threats to religious values diverging from secular ideologies. The election is considered a chance to support reconciliation and justice, particularly with Indigenous Peoples and in policy areas like education, healthcare, and housing.

In economic matters, the bishops called for a national vision respecting international obligations and promoting global solidarity, noting that economic development should be rooted in justice and concern for the vulnerable. They advised Catholics to ground political engagement in prayer, urging them to reflect on these issues prayerfully before voting.

The faithful were encouraged to "pray for our country, for all political candidates, and for our fellow citizens," pausing in prayer before voting to seek blessings for elected leaders.

This article was originally published by The B.C. Catholic in partnership with OSV News. The B.C. Catholic is the weekly newspaper of the Archdiocese of Vancouver.