Public Policy
“The real purpose of civil law is to guarantee an ordered social coexistence in true justice, so that all may “lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way” (1 Tim. 2:2). Precisely for this reason, civil law must ensure that all members of society enjoy respect for certain fundamental rights which innately belong to the person, rights which every positive law must recognize and guarantee. First and fundamental among these is the inviolable right to life of every innocent human being.”
~ Pope John Paul II, Evangelium vitae, n. 71
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Conscience and the Catholic Voter: http://www.usccb.org/prolife/programs/rlp/loripamphlet.pdf
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FAITHFUL CITIZENSHIP: www.faithfulcitizenship.org Extensive resource materials from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Includes information for parishes, Catholic schools, youth, families; links to Church documents, videos, podcasts, and more.
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The Massachusetts Catholic Conference (MCC) serves as the official representative of the four Catholic dioceses in the Commonwealth on public policy issues. This includes the Archdiocese of Boston, and the Dioceses of Fall River, Springfield, and Worcester. Since its inception in 1969, the MCC has concerned itself with foundational social issues affecting the dignity of the human person and the sanctity of all human lives. In the face of threats posed by the legalization of abortion and euthanasia, the reinstatement of the death penalty, the redefinition of marriage and the family, and economic injustice, the involvement of all Catholics in the public policy arena is absolutely crucial.
The MCC serves as an informational resource, and encourages the active participation of all Catholics in these important public debates.
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The National Committee for a Human Life Amendment (NCHLA) serves as the public policy arm for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, working closely with the Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities, on federal legislative issues affecting the fundamental right to life and the dignity of the human person. Among its activities, NCHLA produces educational and program resources, communicates with leaders about legislative priorities, and presents legislative seminars throughout the year. In a special way, NCHLA assists dioceses, state Catholic conferences, and Catholic lay groups.
Visit www.nchla.org to learn more about past and current legislation and learn what you can do to help enact public policy that supports the dignity of human life.
Resources