English bishops urge participation in national elections

February 24, 2015

The Catholic bishops of England have encouraged their people to participate in coming national elections, after having carefully considered the moral issues raised in the campaign.

In an open letter, the bishops remark that in an election campaign “we are asked to think about the kind of society we want here at home and abroad.” While emphasizing that each voter should make his own decision, the bishops urge consideration of the right to life, economic justice, and care for the environment.

The letter calls for efforts to protect the unborn, and to oppose acceptance of euthanasia and assisted suicide. The bishops urge work to protect the family, “the basic building block of society;” the letter goes on to observe that “families are more diverse and fragile than they were and there are many families of all kinds where love and commitment are found.”

Regarding economic affairs, the bishops’ letter says: “There are many families in our communities who are financially vulnerable and struggle to make ends meet; housing and living costs are high.” Introducing the message at a February 24 press conference, Cardinal Vincent Nichols said: “It is shocking that in a society which is so rich as ours that there are people, even people in employment, who are dependent on food banks and handouts.”

 

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Further information:

• Full text: England and Wales bishops’ general election advice (Catholic Herald)
• Catholic Church Urges Britons to Participate in Election (ABC)
• Catholic bishops cite poverty as key issue for UK parties at election (Guardian)