As we Ohioans are nearing a special election in just over a week (Aug. 8) and a general election this fall (Nov. 7), it is good to be reminded of the importance of being involved in politics, as much as we might not like doing so. Pope Francis said Catholics should be involved in the political discussion, and offer their prayers, so that the governing process will proceed in humility, respect, and truth.
Pope Francis rejects the idea that "a good Catholic doesn't meddle in politics.” Pope Francis: “We need to participate for the common good. Sometimes we hear: a good Catholic is not interested in politics. This is not true: good Catholics immerse themselves in politics by offering the best of themselves so that the leader can govern.”
Pope Francis acknowledged the tendency for people to speak only critically of their leaders, to complain about, "...things that don't go well." Instead of simply complaining, he reminds us that we should pray, since prayer is, "...the best that we can offer to those who govern." Pope Francis directs us to St. Paul's first letter to Timothy where we are directed to pray for the conversion and strong leadership of those in authority.
It’s critically important that voters take the time to understand the issues and candidates on every voting ballot. The special election next week (Aug. 8) is an important one because it involves changing how our State Constitution can be amended directly by the voters. This political issue has gained unusually high attention because it will make it more difficult to pass the proposed pro-abortion amendment to the Ohio Constitution on the Nov. 7 election ballot. To be clear, Issue 1 is not a moral issue but a political issue that will affect both in future elections.
I encourage you to research the arguments for and against Issue 1 and decide appropriately on this political issue. The condensed summary of those arguments, for those who have been asking, is as follows. Those in favor of Issue 1 contend that the current requirement of 50.01% voters is not a clear majority but a divided electorate. They contend that at least 60% of voters should agree to change the Constitution. Those opposed contend the current requirement is fine.
Issue 1 also would require future initiative petitions proposing a constitutional amendment to be signed by at least 5% of the electors in each of Ohio's 88 counties before going to the election ballot, rather than the current requirement of 44 counties. Those opposed to the change argue it is too restrictive and those in favor contend 5% of the electorate of every county is minimal.
Pope Francis’s directive that we be politically involved is not new, but is instead the clear, consistent teaching of the Church. Let us not forget his directive that we pray every day for the political process and our elected officials. Remember to always be civil in your discussions and debates.
Gratefully,
Fr. Miller