The following is an updated version of a column that originally ran in the Sept. 14 edition of The Tablet.
By Bishop Robert Brennan
Friends,
As Catholics, we take our right and responsibility to take part in the political process very seriously, indeed by voting, but also by engaging with civic and party leaders in the development of public policy.
The Church does not engage in partisan politics. However, individual Catholics play important roles in both major political parties and the various smaller parties and political organizations. That is a good thing. We need Catholic voices in the dialogues, “scrutinizing the signs of the times and interpreting them in the light of the Gospel.” (Second Vatican Council, Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World #4.)
Our political participation begins with a well-formed conscience grounded in the Church’s teachings. At the core of these teachings is the belief in the inherent dignity of every human person, created in the image and likeness of God — from conception until natural death and at every moment in between.
This truth is the foundation of all principles in our political engagements, from our rejection of abortion, euthanasia, racism, and antisemitism to our support of efforts to break the cycle of poverty, care for the environment, defend the sanctity of marriage and the family, protect religious liberty, and promote genuine, comprehensive immigration reform.
Among the matrix of human rights that flow from our God-given dignity, the right to life itself is foundational. Without it, all other rights crumble.
In New York, we will be voting not only for candidates for public office but also on Proposition 1, also known as the Equal Rights Amendment. The name of this proposal sounds promising, as many of us are inclined to advance equal rights. However, the text of Proposition 1 is broadly written and if enacted, would have dangerous consequences that threaten our fundamental beliefs.
Unrestricted Abortion: If passed, Proposition 1 would cement abortion on demand without any restrictions at any point during pregnancy. Catholics are called to oppose this measure, as it disregards the sanctity of human life and risks normalizing the destruction of innocent lives.
Parental Rights at Risk: Proposition 1 threatens to strip away the authority of parents to make decisions for their minor-aged children. Under this amendment, courts could make decisions regarding gender-affirming treatments and surgeries for children, undermining the authority of parents. Such a law puts families at risk. I urge you to educate yourself about this proposed amendment and to reject it when you cast your vote.
Dangerous Consequences: Proposal 1 could have lasting negative impacts on families and unborn children, serving political agendas while disregarding the sacred parent-child relationship and the protection of life.
Girls Sports Threatened: Opponents say the law would also grant boys and men the right to compete in girls’ and women’s sports by elevating ‘gender identity’ to a constitutional right.
The Bishops of New York State outlined their concerns on Proposition 1 in an article filled with detailed information about the proposal. It can be found on their website at nyscatholic.org.
As Catholics, we are called to engage in the political process with informed consciences, reflecting on how our votes align with Church teachings, especially regarding human dignity, social justice, and the common good. While the Church remains non-partisan, it encourages Catholics to participate actively in shaping public policy.
By bringing our faith-based values into political discussions, we can influence laws that protect life, support families, and promote justice.
Finally, please join me in praying for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our discernment so that we, as a nation, state, and city, may choose leaders and representatives who hear God’s Word, live in his love, and keep the ways of his truth.
We pray for an honest and safe election. We then hope that all people of goodwill unite behind those elected to foster the common good.
