Catholic Teaching, Catholic Values, and Catholic Voters: Reflections on Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship

Journal of Catholic Legal Studies, Vol. 47, 2008

St. John's Legal Studies Research Paper No. 08-0147

14 Pages Posted: 28 Sep 2008

See all articles by Michael A. Simons

Michael A. Simons

St. John's University School of Law

Date Written: September 25, 2008

Abstract

This essay introduces the Journal of Catholic Legal Studies' Symposium on the United States Bishops pastoral letter Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the United States Catholic Bishops. The essay first summarizes the letter, focusing on the bishops' nuanced and pragmatic approach to voting and their refusal to provide Catholic voters with "easy answers." The essay then introduces the Symposium's six articles. Given the rich tradition of Catholic social thought and the complexity of our current political challenges, it is not surprising that the authors' reactions to Forming Consciences are quite diverse. In the end, however, all six articles share a common goal: to further the "faith-based conversation" that informs and enriches Catholic participation in the political life of our nation.

Suggested Citation

Simons, Michael A., Catholic Teaching, Catholic Values, and Catholic Voters: Reflections on Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (September 25, 2008). Journal of Catholic Legal Studies, Vol. 47, 2008, St. John's Legal Studies Research Paper No. 08-0147, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1273621

Michael A. Simons (Contact Author)

St. John's University School of Law ( email )

8000 Utopia Parkway
Jamaica, NY 11439
United States
718-990-6013 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://new.stjohns.edu/academics/graduate/law/faculty/profiles/SimonsMA

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