FAITHFUL CITIZENSHIP

In his Exhortation “The Joy of the Gospel,” Pope Francis encourages us to remember that we, as Christians, can and do impact the quality and Christ-centeredness of our life in the U.S.

1. The Pope writes:

“The dignity of each human person and the pursuit of the common good are concerns which ought to shape all economic policies. . . .   It is vital that government leaders and financial leaders take heed and broaden their horizons, working to ensure that all citizens have dignified work, education, and healthcare.”

Let us remember the “dignity of each human person and the pursuit of the common good” as we listen to what our candidates tell us about their political platforms and agendas.

2.  Pope Francis asks us, not to leave our government and financial leaders on their own. He pleads,

“Why not turn to God and ask God to inspire their plans?”

This is a good reminder for us during these pre-election days, because praying for our leaders is helpful to us and to them.  Prayer is turning one’s mind and heart to God.  A prayer after each aired or read campaign ad could be an opportunity for us to remember to invite God into our personal political choice processes.

3.  Pope Francis’ final point is that all things, including politics and economics look different when you look at them with an “openness to the transcendent.”

“I am firmly convinced that openness to the transcendent can bring about a new political and economic mindset which would help to break down the wall of separation between the economy and the common good of society.”

Is there a “wall of separation between the economy and the common good of society?”  What is being said by the presidential candidates that, rather than building or reinforcing such a wall will, in its place, create or strengthen an environment where, at the same time, the economy and the common good of society flourish?