In keeping with its mission, the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops (FCCB) aims to assist Catholics in active and responsible participation in political life. Each election cycle, the FCCB offers several resources to help the faithful with the obligation to make informed voting decisions. The bishops neither support nor oppose candidates and do not intend to tell Catholics for whom or against whom to vote. The responsibility to make political choices rests with each individual in light of a properly- formed conscience. The following resources are approved by the bishops of Florida for use in parish or diocesan publications and for posting online.
Vote "NO" on Amendment 4
An extremely grave amendment has been placed on the November 2024 ballot that seeks to erase pro-life protections by inserting language into the Florida Constitution prohibiting regulation of abortion. The amendment would allow late-term abortions, including when science says the baby is capable of feeling pain, and would eliminate laws requiring parental consent and safety protocols for women. The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops is working diligently to oppose this dangerous and deceptive amendment and urges all Floridians to vote "NO" on Amendment 4.
Inform Your Vote
Whether running for office, working for a political party, or casting a vote, Catholics are obligated to form and consult our consciences. A well-formed conscience, shaped by sacred scripture and the teachings of the Church, will help guide our decision-making and ensure our actions help build a society that is more respectful of human life and dignity and more cognizant of the Christian obligation to seek peace and justice.
Catholic Social T eaching
Catholic Social Teaching is a valuable resource as we equip ourselves with the tools necessary to properly form our consciences in order to address political and social questions and evaluate candidates and their platforms.
Seven Themes of Catholic Social Teaching
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has launched a campaign inviting Catholics to model civility and love for neighbor throughout the year. Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debate asks Catholics to pledge civility, clarity, and compassion in their families, communities, and parishes, and call on others to do so as well. Take the pledge and find resources to share with your community at CivilizeIt.org
While Catholic lay women and men are encouraged to fully exercise their rights and duties as participants in our democracy, there are specific guidelines that Church entities and representatives are to follow when engaging in political activity. For instance, parishes or persons representing the Church in official capacities are not to distribute any materials that are not approved by the local diocesan bishop or the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops (FCCB), or made available through the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
FCCB Election & Political Activities Guide
Approved by the bishops of Florida, this guide for pastors, parishes, and diocesan staff is intended to encourage Catholic clergy and laity to facilitate the involvement of their faith communities in appropriate election related activities.
FCCB Election & Political Activities Guide, Updated February 2024 (English) | (Spanish)
Civic engagement is about more than voting in elections. It requires ongoing participation in the continuing political and legislative process. After the election, as our elected government leaders engage their work, they need to hear from their consitutents so they can properly address the concerns of the people they represent. The FCCB offers the following two opportunities for Catholics to connect with policymakers:
Florida Catholic Advocacy Network
The Florida Catholic Advocacy Network (FLCAN) is a statewide, online community established by the bishops of Florida that exists to educate and mobilize Catholics across Florida’s seven dioceses on public policy issues pertaining to human life, dignity, and the common good. Subscribers receive via email: educational resources as well as action alerts on key bills at both the state and federal levels that allow for quick and easy messaging to elected officials. The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops does not share subscriber information with any other individuals, groups, or organizations.
Subscribe to the Florida Catholic Advocacy Network
Catholic Days at the Capitol
Each year during the legislative session, Catholics from across the state gather in Florida's capital city to put their faith and civic responsibility into action. Participants attend a legislative briefing before pre-scheduled meetings with lawmakers and/or legislative aides. Activities include the annual Red Mass of the Holy Spirit concelebrated by the bishops of Florida to pray for those working in the legislative, judicial and executive branches of government.
Learn more about Catholic Days at the Capitol
If you have any questions regarding the resources found on this page, please email info@flaccb.org or call (850) 205-6817.
FLORIDA CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS
201 West Park Avenue
Tallahassee, FL 32301-7715
phone: (850) 222-3803
fax: (850) 681-9548
email: info@flaccb.org
© Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops
