General
3 Ways to Support Peaceful Elections
In Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops affirms the importance of civic participation, reminding us that “It is necessary that all participate, each according to his position and role, in promoting the common good. This obligation is inherent in the dignity of the human person. . . . As far as possible citizens should take an active part in public life” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, nos. 1913-1915). Catholic parishes and schools can contribute to the common good by supporting peaceful, smooth elections and increasing trust in the election process. Here are some ways that your parish or school can get involved.
1. Helping Catholics access accurate information
Catholic institutions can help Catholics navigate a confusing information environment by showing them where to find accurate information on where and how they can vote. The local government elections office is the best place to find accurate information about the election process.
Consider sharing (in the parish bulletin, school newsletter, etc.) the following information from your local government elections office:
- The time, dates, and locations of early voting (where applicable).
- State or county government sources for voters to find their polling location.
- Identification requirements under state law.
Helpful links from nonpartisan sources:
- Visit Vote.gov to find your state’s election website.
- Use this specific page on Vote.gov to find information on voting hours in each state.
- Some states offer official online resources to track your voter registration and ballot. You can find your state’s website here: https://www.vote.org/ballot-tracker-tools/
Sample language for a bulletin insert or website blurb are below:
Catholics can participate in the political process by exercising your right to vote. Here is important information to help you know when and where to vote:
Early Voting Hours (where applicable):
Early voting in the [state] takes place on [days] between the dates of [start date] and [end date]. You can find early voting locations at [state election website].
Election Day Voting Information:
Election Day is November 5th, 2024. Polling locations are open from [start] to [end]. If you are in line at the time that the polls close, you can stay in line and will be able to vote.
You can find your polling location, voter registration status, and other helpful information at [state election website]
When looking for information on where and how to vote, remember that “dot gov” government websites and local election officials are the most trustworthy sources.
2. Volunteering as a poll worker
The United States’ election system relies upon 1 million everyday people serving their communities as poll workers. These individuals are well-trained and are often paid for their work, which includes setting up polling locations, checking in voters, and carrying out the duties that are necessary at each polling location. Without enough of these dedicated individuals, voters will face longer lines and a less positive process at their polling locations. Poll workers help to ensure a positive, peaceful process for voters.
Catholic institutions can provide information from the state election website about how individuals can learn more about this opportunity and sign up to volunteer. We can bring our Catholic values to this work by serving with a spirit of hospitality and love of our neighbors who are exercising their right to vote.
The nonpartisan National Association of Secretaries of State has information on how to sign up to serve as a poll worker here.
3. Preventing violence
Catholic institutions can help prevent violence before, during and after elections.
Preventing violence begins with teaching the skills of peaceful and civil dialogue. The USCCB offers the Civilize It: A Better Kind of Politics initiative to help Catholics imitate the example of Jesus Christ through civility, charity and creativity during election season and beyond. Visit the USCCB webpage on CivilizeIt.org for prayer, learning, and skills-building resources.
In addition, consider sharing with all members of your community the 2024 statement, “Pursue What Leads to Peace” (Rom. 14:19): A Christian Response to Rising Threats of Political and Ideological Violence, by Archbishop Borys Gudziak, chairman of the USCCB Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. This statement offers rich reflection for homilies and can be excerpted for intercessory prayers and in the parish bulletin.
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In helping to support peaceful and fair elections, Catholic institutions must ensure that all efforts are nonpartisan and never biased for or against any candidate or party.
The USCCB Office of General Counsel provides detailed guidance on what is allowed and not allowed under the law. In addition, many dioceses and state Catholic conferences provide resources that apply and summarize these guidelines for use by parishes and other church organizations. A “Do’s and Don’ts” resource is available here detailing activities that are or are not permissible during election season.