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USCCB Invites Catholic Voters to Participate in Virtual ‘Election Novena’

A poll worker in Sumter, S.C., cleans the table at a polling location Oct. 9, 2020, during early voting. (Photo: CNS photo/Micah Green, Reuters)

The Tablet Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As Catholics around the country prepare to cast their votes for president, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has announced that it will be holding a virtual “Elections Novena” from Oct. 26 – Nov. 4. The Election Novena is aimed at helping Catholics form their consciences as they prepare for Election Day on Nov. 3. 

The USCCB also held a virtual Election Novena leading up to the 2016 presidential elections, where daily prayer focused on more broad topics related to the Catholic vote. 

However, for 2020, in addition to praying one Hail Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be, participants this year will also be invited to pray with a specific intention in mind each day.

The 2020 Election Novena intentions are as follows:

Monday, October 26

As we prepare for the national & local elections, in the midst of a global pandemic, may our political engagement be guided by our Catholic Faith.

Tuesday, October 27

In this month of the Holy Rosary, may Our Blessed Mother guide us in confronting racial inequalities and restoring peace in our communities. 

Wednesday, October 28

May all Americans recall the necessity of dialogue, civility, and humility in this election season. 

Thursday, October 29

May all people understand the moral and ethical dimensions of political decisions and decide accordingly. 

Friday, October 30

May voters & elected leaders uphold the dignity of every human life in their political engagement. 

Saturday, October 31

May Catholics recall all aspects of Catholic Social Teaching as they consider their votes. 

Sunday, November 1

May there be a transformation of politics to focus on the dignity of the human person and the common good. 

Monday, November 2

May we keep in mind the gift of religious freedom and our duty to defend and exercise it as faithful citizens. 

Tuesday, November 3

Today, as we approach the polls, may we understand & embrace the principles of our Faith that should guide our political engagement. 

Closing prayer for the elected leaders will be offered on Wednesday, November 4. 

Participants can find the daily novena intentions online, sign up to receive them via email, and download social media graphics for each day’s intention at https://www.usccb.org/2020-election-novena.

One thought on “USCCB Invites Catholic Voters to Participate in Virtual ‘Election Novena’

  1. We as Catholics must pray and do penance that this election may see a triumph for Life issues. The evil of Abortion, (the sin that cries out to heaven for vengeance);, redefining marriage etc are grave evils on our society. Thier is only one choice, that is the Choice for Innocent human life. No good, no blessing, no human advancement will come upon our land as long as this evil remains in our midst.