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Respect Life Program Packet for 2009-10 Now Available
08/13/2009 09:37 AM
WASHINGTON—The 2009-10 Respect Life Program is now available in preparation for Respect Life Sunday, October 4. This year’s theme—“Every Child Brings Us God’s Smile”—comes from a homily of Pope Benedict XVI (January 7, 2007, Feast of the Baptism of the Lord).
The Respect Life flyer explores this theme and provides a fascinating timeline of fetal development along with photos showing the humanity of unborn children.
Topics addressed in this year’s Respect Life Program reflect the diversity of pro-life concerns:
NOTE: The Respect Life packets may be ordered from the Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities by calling toll-free (866) 582-0943, or by faxing orders to (301) 779-8596. Downloadable copies of Respect Life materials from 1996 onward are posted in English and Spanish on the Secretariat’s Website at www.usccb.org/prolife/programs/rlp.
- the way ahead in building a culture of life (by Cardinal Justin Rigali)
- the essence of human dignity
- assisted suicide
- facts about contraception
- infertility
- same-sex marriage
NOTE: The Respect Life packets may be ordered from the Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities by calling toll-free (866) 582-0943, or by faxing orders to (301) 779-8596. Downloadable copies of Respect Life materials from 1996 onward are posted in English and Spanish on the Secretariat’s Website at www.usccb.org/prolife/programs/rlp.
New Caritas in Veritate Action Guide from USCCB
07/14/2009 04:45 PM
A new document from USCCB contains suggestions for parishioners on how to respond to the call of Caritas in Veritate. It is reproducible and appropriate for parish bulletins. 
Missed it? Try again!
07/14/2009 04:43 PM
Interview on Caritas in Veritate to be rebroadcast Saturday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m. Listen at AM 1370 or AM 1280, or listen on-line at http://www.youram1370.com/.
Radio Show to Highlight Caritas in Veritate
07/09/2009 02:48 PM
North Dakota Catholic Conference executive director Christopher Dodson will appear on Real Presence Catholic Radio Monday, July 13 to discuss Caritas in Veritate with host Tanya Watterud. The segment is scheduled for the 10:00 a.m. hour. Listen at AM 1370 or AM 1280, or listen on-line at http://www.youram1370.com/.Resources on New Encyclical
07/07/2009 03:04 PM
Commentators will use the internet and printed press to weigh-in on the Pope's new encyclical during the next few days and weeks. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has developed its own site with information about Caritas in Veritate here. Be sure to return since more material will be added.
Cardinal George Welcomes New Encyclical
07/07/2009 12:03 PM
WASHINGTON—Cardinal Francis George of Chicago, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, said Caritas in Veritate, Pope Benedict XVI’s new encyclical, provides helpful guidance for finding answers to the social, economic and moral questions of the contemporary world in a search for truth.
He commented July 7, when Pope Benedict issued to the world a letter that analyzes the current global economic crisis in light of traditional moral principles. The letter affirms the progress that has been made in world development yet notes that other challenges exist given newly emerging problems in the global society.
The encyclical offers sound reflections on the vocation of human development as well as on the moral principles on which a global economy must be based. It challenges business enterprises, governments, unions and individuals to reexamine their economic responsibilities in the light of charity governed by truth.
This third encyclical of Pope Benedict’s papacy, Caritas in Veritate is a call to see the relationship between human and environmental ecologies, and to link charity and truth in the pursuit of justice, the common good and authentic human development. In doing so, the pope points out the responsibilities and limitations of government and the private market, challenges traditional ideologies of right and left and calls all men and women to think and act anew.
As Pope Benedict noted the world’s current financial straits, he declared that “the current crisis obliges us to re-plan our journey, to set ourselves new rules and to discover new forms of commitment, to build on positive experiences and to reject negative ones. The crisis thus becomes an opportunity for discernment, in which to shape a new vision for the future.” (Italics in document)
He commented July 7, when Pope Benedict issued to the world a letter that analyzes the current global economic crisis in light of traditional moral principles. The letter affirms the progress that has been made in world development yet notes that other challenges exist given newly emerging problems in the global society.
The encyclical offers sound reflections on the vocation of human development as well as on the moral principles on which a global economy must be based. It challenges business enterprises, governments, unions and individuals to reexamine their economic responsibilities in the light of charity governed by truth.
This third encyclical of Pope Benedict’s papacy, Caritas in Veritate is a call to see the relationship between human and environmental ecologies, and to link charity and truth in the pursuit of justice, the common good and authentic human development. In doing so, the pope points out the responsibilities and limitations of government and the private market, challenges traditional ideologies of right and left and calls all men and women to think and act anew.
As Pope Benedict noted the world’s current financial straits, he declared that “the current crisis obliges us to re-plan our journey, to set ourselves new rules and to discover new forms of commitment, to build on positive experiences and to reject negative ones. The crisis thus becomes an opportunity for discernment, in which to shape a new vision for the future.” (Italics in document)
Caritas in Veritate
07/07/2009 08:15 AM
Brush Up on Your Encyclicals
07/06/2009 09:37 AM
In preparation for tomorrow's much anticipated release of Pope Benedict's new social encyclical, the USCCB has posted a social encyclical primer, looking at key social encyclicals throughout history.
Cardinal George to Obama: Abortion Destroys the Common Good
11/12/2008 12:40 PM
STATEMENT of the President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
“If the Lord does not build the house, in vain do its builders labor; if the Lord does not watch over the city, in vain does the watchman keep vigil.” (Psalm 127, vs. 1)
The Bishops of the Catholic Church in the United States welcome this moment of historic transition and look forward to working with President-elect Obama and the members of the new Congress for the common good of all. Because of the Church’s history and the scope of her ministries in this country, we want to continue our work for economic justice and opportunity for all; our efforts to reform laws around immigration and the situation of the undocumented; our provision of better education and adequate health care for all, especially for women and children; our desire to safeguard religious freedom and foster peace at home and abroad. The Church is intent on doing good and will continue to cooperate gladly with the government and all others working for these goods.
The fundamental good is life itself, a gift from God and our parents. A good state protects the lives of all. Legal protection for those members of the human family waiting to be born in this country was removed when the Supreme Court decided Roe vs. Wade in 1973. This was bad law. The danger the Bishops see at this moment is that a bad court decision will be enshrined in bad legislation that is more radical than the 1973 Supreme Court decision itself.
In the last Congress, a Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) was introduced that would, if brought forward in the same form today, outlaw any “interference” in providing abortion at will. It would deprive the American people in all fifty states of the freedom they now have to enact modest restraints and regulations on the abortion industry. FOCA would coerce all Americans into subsidizing and promoting abortion with their tax dollars. It would counteract any and all sincere efforts by government and others of good will to reduce the number of abortions in our country.
Parental notification and informed consent precautions would be outlawed, as would be laws banning procedures such as partial-birth abortion and protecting infants born alive after a failed abortion. Abortion clinics would be deregulated. The Hyde Amendment restricting the federal funding of abortions would be abrogated. FOCA would have lethal consequences for prenatal human life.
FOCA would have an equally destructive effect on the freedom of conscience of doctors, nurses and health care workers whose personal convictions do not permit them to cooperate in the private killing of unborn children. It would threaten Catholic health care institutions and Catholic Charities. It would be an evil law that would further divide our country, and the Church should be intent on opposing evil.
On this issue, the legal protection of the unborn, the bishops are of one mind with Catholics and others of good will. They are also pastors who have listened to women whose lives have been diminished because they believed they had no choice but to abort a baby. Abortion is a medical procedure that kills, and the psychological and spiritual consequences are written in the sorrow and depression of many women and men. The bishops are single-minded because they are, first of all, single-hearted.
The recent election was principally decided out of concern for the economy, for the loss of jobs and homes and financial security for families, here and around the world. If the election is misinterpreted ideologically as a referendum on abortion, the unity desired by President-elect Obama and all Americans at this moment of crisis will be impossible to achieve. Abortion kills not only unborn children; it destroys constitutional order and the common good, which is assured only when the life of every human being is legally protected. Aggressively pro-abortion policies, legislation and executive orders will permanently alienate tens of millions of Americans, and would be seen by many as an attack on the free exercise of their religion.
This statement is written at the request and direction of all the Bishops, who also want to thank all those in politics who work with good will to protect the lives of the most vulnerable among us. Those in public life do so, sometimes, at the cost of great sacrifice to themselves and their families; and we are grateful. We express again our great desire to work with all those who cherish the common good of our nation. The common good is not the sum total of individual desires and interests; it is achieved in the working out of a common life based upon good reason and good will for all.
Our prayers accompany President-elect Obama and his family and those who are cooperating with him to assure a smooth transition in government. Many issues demand immediate attention on the part of our elected “watchman.” (Psalm 127) May God bless him and our country.
“If the Lord does not build the house, in vain do its builders labor; if the Lord does not watch over the city, in vain does the watchman keep vigil.” (Psalm 127, vs. 1)
The Bishops of the Catholic Church in the United States welcome this moment of historic transition and look forward to working with President-elect Obama and the members of the new Congress for the common good of all. Because of the Church’s history and the scope of her ministries in this country, we want to continue our work for economic justice and opportunity for all; our efforts to reform laws around immigration and the situation of the undocumented; our provision of better education and adequate health care for all, especially for women and children; our desire to safeguard religious freedom and foster peace at home and abroad. The Church is intent on doing good and will continue to cooperate gladly with the government and all others working for these goods.
The fundamental good is life itself, a gift from God and our parents. A good state protects the lives of all. Legal protection for those members of the human family waiting to be born in this country was removed when the Supreme Court decided Roe vs. Wade in 1973. This was bad law. The danger the Bishops see at this moment is that a bad court decision will be enshrined in bad legislation that is more radical than the 1973 Supreme Court decision itself.
In the last Congress, a Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) was introduced that would, if brought forward in the same form today, outlaw any “interference” in providing abortion at will. It would deprive the American people in all fifty states of the freedom they now have to enact modest restraints and regulations on the abortion industry. FOCA would coerce all Americans into subsidizing and promoting abortion with their tax dollars. It would counteract any and all sincere efforts by government and others of good will to reduce the number of abortions in our country.
Parental notification and informed consent precautions would be outlawed, as would be laws banning procedures such as partial-birth abortion and protecting infants born alive after a failed abortion. Abortion clinics would be deregulated. The Hyde Amendment restricting the federal funding of abortions would be abrogated. FOCA would have lethal consequences for prenatal human life.
FOCA would have an equally destructive effect on the freedom of conscience of doctors, nurses and health care workers whose personal convictions do not permit them to cooperate in the private killing of unborn children. It would threaten Catholic health care institutions and Catholic Charities. It would be an evil law that would further divide our country, and the Church should be intent on opposing evil.
On this issue, the legal protection of the unborn, the bishops are of one mind with Catholics and others of good will. They are also pastors who have listened to women whose lives have been diminished because they believed they had no choice but to abort a baby. Abortion is a medical procedure that kills, and the psychological and spiritual consequences are written in the sorrow and depression of many women and men. The bishops are single-minded because they are, first of all, single-hearted.
The recent election was principally decided out of concern for the economy, for the loss of jobs and homes and financial security for families, here and around the world. If the election is misinterpreted ideologically as a referendum on abortion, the unity desired by President-elect Obama and all Americans at this moment of crisis will be impossible to achieve. Abortion kills not only unborn children; it destroys constitutional order and the common good, which is assured only when the life of every human being is legally protected. Aggressively pro-abortion policies, legislation and executive orders will permanently alienate tens of millions of Americans, and would be seen by many as an attack on the free exercise of their religion.
This statement is written at the request and direction of all the Bishops, who also want to thank all those in politics who work with good will to protect the lives of the most vulnerable among us. Those in public life do so, sometimes, at the cost of great sacrifice to themselves and their families; and we are grateful. We express again our great desire to work with all those who cherish the common good of our nation. The common good is not the sum total of individual desires and interests; it is achieved in the working out of a common life based upon good reason and good will for all.
Our prayers accompany President-elect Obama and his family and those who are cooperating with him to assure a smooth transition in government. Many issues demand immediate attention on the part of our elected “watchman.” (Psalm 127) May God bless him and our country.
Bishop Samuel Aquila cites Sen. Joseph Biden’s “lack of knowledge and understanding of Catholic teaching on abortion”
09/11/2008 03:39 PM
Two weeks after stating that Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi’s Aug. 24 comments about Catholic teaching concerning when human life begins, made on NBC’s Meet the Press, were “misinformed” and “created confusion,” Bishop Samuel Aquila of the Catholic Diocese of Fargo cited Sen. Joseph Biden’s “lack of knowledge and understanding of Catholic teaching on abortion.”
During a Sept. 7 interview on Meet the Press, Biden said he accepted Catholic teaching that life begins at conception but would not “impose that judgment on everyone else.” Bishop Aquila, who has frequently cautioned Catholics about separating their faith from their public life, responded firmly to Biden’s statement, noting that both Pelosi and Biden, who are Catholics, misrepresented Church teaching and disregarded science.
“Senator Biden, and all others who mistakenly claim that the beginning of life is a matter of religious opinion confuse matters more by implying that the time of when life begins is a matter of faith, and not that of science, the natural law, or truth,” Bishop Aquila wrote in a Sept. 10 letter to priests which was posted on the diocesan Web site. “Any person who has studied biology, whether they are a Catholic, Jew, Muslim, Christian, agnostic or atheist, knows that human life begins at the moment of conception.”
Bishop Aquila asked priests to share with people in their parishes the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ fact sheet, “Respect for Unborn Human Life: The Church’s Constant Teaching” which was written in response to Pelosi’s Aug. 24 comments and to “address this clarification of teaching from the pulpit.”
The bishop noted the responsibility of priests to “clearly articulate the truths of natural reason and the teaching of the Church and help all of our faithful understand the teaching.”
“We cannot be silent in the face of such a holocaust of innocent human life,” Bishop Aquila added.
The full text of Bishop Aquila’s letter can be found at www.fargodiocese.org.
During a Sept. 7 interview on Meet the Press, Biden said he accepted Catholic teaching that life begins at conception but would not “impose that judgment on everyone else.” Bishop Aquila, who has frequently cautioned Catholics about separating their faith from their public life, responded firmly to Biden’s statement, noting that both Pelosi and Biden, who are Catholics, misrepresented Church teaching and disregarded science.
“Senator Biden, and all others who mistakenly claim that the beginning of life is a matter of religious opinion confuse matters more by implying that the time of when life begins is a matter of faith, and not that of science, the natural law, or truth,” Bishop Aquila wrote in a Sept. 10 letter to priests which was posted on the diocesan Web site. “Any person who has studied biology, whether they are a Catholic, Jew, Muslim, Christian, agnostic or atheist, knows that human life begins at the moment of conception.”
Bishop Aquila asked priests to share with people in their parishes the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ fact sheet, “Respect for Unborn Human Life: The Church’s Constant Teaching” which was written in response to Pelosi’s Aug. 24 comments and to “address this clarification of teaching from the pulpit.”
The bishop noted the responsibility of priests to “clearly articulate the truths of natural reason and the teaching of the Church and help all of our faithful understand the teaching.”
“We cannot be silent in the face of such a holocaust of innocent human life,” Bishop Aquila added.
The full text of Bishop Aquila’s letter can be found at www.fargodiocese.org.
Faithful Citizenship Videos
06/04/2008 08:12 PM
USCCB has released a DVD for use with Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship. The Faithful Citizenship website has three videos from the DVD for viewing.
Taxes!
03/27/2008 01:32 PM
This month's column discusses Catholic teaching on taxes.
Excerpt:
Excerpt:
As Christians, we have obligations toward the common good. For that reason, we have a duty to pay taxes. Jesus did not consider it unjust to pay taxes to Caesar. (Mk 12:13-17; Mt 22:15-22; Lk 20:20-26) Saint Paul insisted on the civic duty to pay taxes. (Rm 13:7) The Catechism says: Submission to authority and co-responsibility for the common good make it morally obligatory to pay taxes . . .” (Catechism, No. 2240.)Read more . . .
New Faithful Citizenship Site -- with Podcasts
02/20/2008 04:02 PM
The U.S. Bishops office has launched a new Faithful Citizenship site. It includes many, many resources for Catholics, pastors, educators, and more. The new site also includes podcasts on principles from Catholic social teaching. Check it out.
The Human Family: A Community of Peace
12/11/2007 04:03 PM
Each year, the Pope releases a World Day of Peace Message. The Vatican has released Pope Benedict's message for 2008, entitled The Human Family: A Community of Peace. The message teaches about the importance of family, the environment, the moral law, and the need for disarmament as they relate to the establishment of peace.
Faithful Citizenship Bulletin Insert
12/10/2007 02:52 PM
Bishops Approve Faithful Citizenship Document
11/14/2007 11:27 AM
BALTIMORE-The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) today overwhelmingly approved a statement called Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States. The statement urges Catholics to be involved in public life and to use the values of their faith to shape their political choice. It was approved at the bishops’ general meeting in Baltimore, November 12-15.
“In this statement, we bishops do not intend to tell Catholics for whom or against whom to vote,” the bishops explain. “Our purpose is to help Catholics form their consciences in accordance with God’s truth. We recognize that the responsibility to make choices in political life rests with each individual in light of a properly formed conscience, and that participation goes well beyond casting a vote in a particular election.”
The church’s role in helping Catholics to form their consciences is a central theme of the document. “With this foundation,” the bishops explain, “Catholics are better able to evaluate policy positions, party platforms, and candidates’ promises and action in light of the Gospel and the moral and social teaching of the Church in order to help build a better world.”
The bishops affirm their legitimate role in public life. “The obligation to teach about moral values that should shape our lives, including our public lives, is central to [our] mission,” they state. “Our nation’s tradition of pluralism is enhanced, not threatened, when religious groups and people of faith bring their convictions and concerns into public life.”
Respect for the dignity of every human being is a foundation for Catholic teaching about “faithful citizenship.” The statement explains the necessity of opposing actions that are intrinsically wrong, such as abortion and euthanasia, because these actions involve directly and
intentionally ending an innocent human life. It also affirms the obligation to promote the common good by combating such threats to human life and dignity as hunger, poverty, racism, unjust immigration policies, and unjust war. “Both opposing evil and doing good are essential obligations.”
The bishops warn of two temptations for Catholics in public life. “The first is a moral equivalence that makes no ethical distinctions between different kinds of issues involving human life and dignity. The direct and intentional destruction of innocent human life…is always wrong and is not just one issue among many. It must always be opposed.” A second temptation involves “dismissing or ignoring other serious threats to human life and dignity. Racism and other unjust discrimination, torture, the use of the death penalty, resorting to unjust war, war crimes, the failure to respond to those who are suffering from hunger or lack health care, or unjust immigration policies are all serious moral issues that challenge our consciences and require us to act.”
The bishops call Catholics to a different kind of political engagement shaped by the moral convictions of well-formed consciences and focused on the dignity of every human being, the pursuit of the common good, and the protection of the weak and the vulnerable.” They add, “Participation in political life in light of fundamental moral principles is an essential duty for every Catholic and all people of good will.”
“In this statement, we bishops do not intend to tell Catholics for whom or against whom to vote,” the bishops explain. “Our purpose is to help Catholics form their consciences in accordance with God’s truth. We recognize that the responsibility to make choices in political life rests with each individual in light of a properly formed conscience, and that participation goes well beyond casting a vote in a particular election.”
The church’s role in helping Catholics to form their consciences is a central theme of the document. “With this foundation,” the bishops explain, “Catholics are better able to evaluate policy positions, party platforms, and candidates’ promises and action in light of the Gospel and the moral and social teaching of the Church in order to help build a better world.”
The bishops affirm their legitimate role in public life. “The obligation to teach about moral values that should shape our lives, including our public lives, is central to [our] mission,” they state. “Our nation’s tradition of pluralism is enhanced, not threatened, when religious groups and people of faith bring their convictions and concerns into public life.”
Respect for the dignity of every human being is a foundation for Catholic teaching about “faithful citizenship.” The statement explains the necessity of opposing actions that are intrinsically wrong, such as abortion and euthanasia, because these actions involve directly and
intentionally ending an innocent human life. It also affirms the obligation to promote the common good by combating such threats to human life and dignity as hunger, poverty, racism, unjust immigration policies, and unjust war. “Both opposing evil and doing good are essential obligations.”
The bishops warn of two temptations for Catholics in public life. “The first is a moral equivalence that makes no ethical distinctions between different kinds of issues involving human life and dignity. The direct and intentional destruction of innocent human life…is always wrong and is not just one issue among many. It must always be opposed.” A second temptation involves “dismissing or ignoring other serious threats to human life and dignity. Racism and other unjust discrimination, torture, the use of the death penalty, resorting to unjust war, war crimes, the failure to respond to those who are suffering from hunger or lack health care, or unjust immigration policies are all serious moral issues that challenge our consciences and require us to act.”
The bishops call Catholics to a different kind of political engagement shaped by the moral convictions of well-formed consciences and focused on the dignity of every human being, the pursuit of the common good, and the protection of the weak and the vulnerable.” They add, “Participation in political life in light of fundamental moral principles is an essential duty for every Catholic and all people of good will.”
Respect Life Program Part II
10/05/2007 01:53 PM
We are continuing our posting of articles from the 2007 - 2008 Respect Life Program from the USCCB. Here is the second installment -- Helen Alvare's Assisted Reproductive Technology and the Family.
Labor Day Statement
08/27/2007 04:12 PM
Each year the chair of the Domestic Policy Committee of the USCCB issues a Labor Day Statement. Here is this year's statement.
2007-2008 Respect Life Program
08/27/2007 03:53 PM
Each year, the USCCB Office of Pro-Life Activities produces a Respect Life Program with to assist everyone with learning about and educating on issues concerning human life. The central piece of the program is a series of excellent articles written by experts in their fields.
Once a month, we will post one of the articles on this web site.
To start us out, here is The Person with Mental Illness: Bearing God's Image by Rev. Richard Gill, L.C.
Once a month, we will post one of the articles on this web site.
To start us out, here is The Person with Mental Illness: Bearing God's Image by Rev. Richard Gill, L.C.
Parish Social Ministry Training Opportunity
08/13/2007 01:14 PM
Catholic Charities of North Dakota is cosponsoring a Parish Social Ministry Regional Training October 12-14, 2007 in Paynesville, MN.
Parish Social Ministry Regional Trainings are an opportunity for people in parishes, dioceses and Catholic Charities agencies to gain practical hands on experience and to share best practices in a convening rooted in prayer and community.
Highlights of this Parish Social Ministry Regional Training will include:
• an opportunity to learn new skills;
• a prophetic vision of church in our world today;
• the fundamental call we share to be church to each other and the stranger;
• a spiritually renewing and encouraging atmosphere.
Download a brochure and registration form.
For more information, contact:
Kathy Langer
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud
(320) 229-6020 or 1-800-830-8254 ext 2020
klanger@gw.stcdio.org
Parish Social Ministry Regional Trainings are an opportunity for people in parishes, dioceses and Catholic Charities agencies to gain practical hands on experience and to share best practices in a convening rooted in prayer and community.
Highlights of this Parish Social Ministry Regional Training will include:
• an opportunity to learn new skills;
• a prophetic vision of church in our world today;
• the fundamental call we share to be church to each other and the stranger;
• a spiritually renewing and encouraging atmosphere.
Download a brochure and registration form.
For more information, contact:
Kathy Langer
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud
(320) 229-6020 or 1-800-830-8254 ext 2020
klanger@gw.stcdio.org
Restore Justice Web Site Revised
08/07/2007 01:48 PM
Restore Justice is a national web site originally started by the California Catholic Conference dedicated to implementing Catholic principles into our criminal justice system. Check it out.
Some Updates from Catholic Charities USA
06/15/2007 04:46 PM
Immigration Debate Will Resume in Senate
On June 15, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced that the Senate will resume debate on immigration. This will occur after the Senate completes its energy bill, which is expected prior to the July 4th recess. This news comes after Senate Democrat and Republican leaders announced that they had agreed on a way to revive the comprehensive immigration proposal, the “Secure Borders, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Reform Act of 2007” (S.1348). The proposal was pulled from the Senate floor last week when supporters received only 45 of the 60 votes needed to end debate and vote on the bill. Earlier in the day, President Bush called for $ 4.4 billion in spending to show that the Administration was committed to “securing this border once and for all.”
While details of the agreement are still unclear, we hear from varying sources that the Senate will consider at least 20 amendments, half from Republicans and half from Democrats. These amendments are likely to include:
Thank you for responding to the action alert asking the Senate to return to immigration reform. As you can see, your voice can make a difference. In the coming weeks, please look for additional opportunities to join in our advocacy efforts. You can also visit the Justice for Newcomers website for more resources and information on the immigration debate.
For more information, please contact Lucreda Cobbs, Director of Immigration and Special Populations Policy, at lcobbs@catholiccharitiesusa.org.
House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services and Education Marks Up Bill
Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services and Educations marked up its appropriations bill for fiscal year (FY) 2008. As reported last week, the proposed allocations would boost funding in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education programs by more than $10 billion over the President’s request and $6 billion over the amount approved by Congress last year. However, the Coalition on Human Needs reports that accounting for inflation this is only a 2.6 percent increase. More details from the Coalition on Human Needs are provided below.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) received a $500 million increase in contingency funds. The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) received a marginal 2 percent increase after inflation. In education, the Even Start program was not eliminated in contrast to the President’s proposal.
Some programs were level-funded without accounting for inflation. In regards to child welfare, several programs were level-funded. In regards to early childhood development, Head Start did not receive an increase accounting for inflation. In regards to the Workforce Investment Act, funds would drop 2 percent. In regards to the SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, the funding was down 1 percent counting inflation.
The full Appropriations Committee is not expected to take up this Subcommittee bill until after the July 4th recess.
Appropriations Background: Appropriations is the annual process of funding specific programs; the House and Senate Appropriations Committees are responsible for the overall funding process, and their 12 subcommittees are responsible for funding specific programs. The Appropriations Committees distribute the total amount of funding in the budget resolution (passed by Congress that sets the overall ceiling for Congressional spending) among their subcommittees. The subcommittees then hold hearings on funding bills, as well as “mark ups” where Members debate funding, consider amendments, and vote to send the bills to the full Appropriations Committees. The Appropriations Committees then hold their own mark ups before voting to send the bill to the full House or Senate for approval.
House appropriations subcommittees began work on several bills this week. Catholic Charities USA will keep you updated on specific program allotments as the appropriations process continues.
For more information, please contact Christin Driscoll, Senior Director for Policy Development and Advocacy, at cdriscoll@catholiccharitiesusa.org.
Homeless Assistance Legislation Introduced in Senate
Recently, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) introduced legislation to reauthorize the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Programs, the main source of federal funding for homeless assistance. This June marks the 20th anniversary of the McKinney-Vento Act and advocates are hopeful that the reauthorization of the Act will move forward this year.
The legislation, “The Community Partnership to End Homelessness Act of 2007” (S. 1518), is the Senate version of the reauthorization bill introduced earlier this year in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing (HEARTH) Act (H.R. 840).
Like the HEARTH Act, the Senate bill includes several positive provisions for reauthorization. For example, it consolidates the McKinney-Vento homeless assistance programs (excluding Emergency Shelter Grants). For the first time, homeless prevention efforts would also be eligible for funding. It also allows the new 25 percent match requirement for housing and supportive services to be met either in cash or with an in-kind contribution.
However, the Senate bill does not expand the HUD definition of homelessness to include persons living doubled-up with others or living in hotels or motels. This will impact the many homeless families and children who often live in such situations. Also, compared to the HEARTH Act, the Senate bill provides less flexibility for communities to meet their demonstrated local needs rather than priorities set by HUD. It codifies the HUD priority of committing 30 percent of homeless assistance funding to provide permanent housing to chronically homeless populations. This may conflict with demonstrated needs within communities where the homeless population may not include large numbers of chronically homeless persons.
Catholic Charities USA will continue to advocate for a McKinney-Vento reauthorization that provides for a balanced approach to preventing and ending homelessness. Look for upcoming opportunities to take action on ending homelessness in America.
For more information, please contact Candy Hill, Senior Vice President of Social Policy, at chill@catholiccharitiesusa.org.
Catholic Charities USA Kicks Off National Dialogue on the Role of Fatherhood: Poverty Campaign Highlights Family Connections in June
On June 14, Catholic Charities USA kicked off a national dialogue on the role that fathers play in helping children grow up in safe and supportive families. The kick-off event, hosted by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, was a conversation with low-income fathers, services providers, and community leaders to hear the challenges low-income fathers face in connecting with their children. Among those speaking were nearly a dozen fathers participating in Catholic Charities of Chicago programs, including teenagers about to become fathers, fathers who had previously been homeless, and those without employment or in low-income jobs.
These fathers spoke of their hopes and dreams for their children and the impact their fathers or a father figure had in their lives. They spoke about policies that would help dads be better fathers, such as better employment opportunities, livable wages, safe housing, and a fresh start for ex-offenders. The comments from these fathers will be utilized to bolster Catholic Charities USA’s federal advocacy efforts for policies and programs that support fathers and strengthen family connections.
If we truly want to cut poverty in half by 2020, building strong family connections—especially through providing more support for low-income fathers—must be part of the solution. Our nation’s public policies and programs have often left fathers out of the resources that have been made available to families. By supporting low-income men and fathers in a more comprehensive way, we can reduce many of the challenges that cause families to fall apart and children to fall into poverty.
Click here to read a press release on the kick-off event and Catholic Charities USA’s positions on policies that strengthen family connections.
On June 15, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced that the Senate will resume debate on immigration. This will occur after the Senate completes its energy bill, which is expected prior to the July 4th recess. This news comes after Senate Democrat and Republican leaders announced that they had agreed on a way to revive the comprehensive immigration proposal, the “Secure Borders, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Reform Act of 2007” (S.1348). The proposal was pulled from the Senate floor last week when supporters received only 45 of the 60 votes needed to end debate and vote on the bill. Earlier in the day, President Bush called for $ 4.4 billion in spending to show that the Administration was committed to “securing this border once and for all.”
While details of the agreement are still unclear, we hear from varying sources that the Senate will consider at least 20 amendments, half from Republicans and half from Democrats. These amendments are likely to include:
- An amendment offered by Senators Mel Martinez (R-FL), Jon Kyl (R-AZ), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) that would provide $4.4 billion in mandatory spending on border security in interior enforcement.
- A contentious amendment by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) that would require undocumented immigrants to return to their country before applying for legal status.
Thank you for responding to the action alert asking the Senate to return to immigration reform. As you can see, your voice can make a difference. In the coming weeks, please look for additional opportunities to join in our advocacy efforts. You can also visit the Justice for Newcomers website for more resources and information on the immigration debate.
For more information, please contact Lucreda Cobbs, Director of Immigration and Special Populations Policy, at lcobbs@catholiccharitiesusa.org.
House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services and Education Marks Up Bill
Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services and Educations marked up its appropriations bill for fiscal year (FY) 2008. As reported last week, the proposed allocations would boost funding in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education programs by more than $10 billion over the President’s request and $6 billion over the amount approved by Congress last year. However, the Coalition on Human Needs reports that accounting for inflation this is only a 2.6 percent increase. More details from the Coalition on Human Needs are provided below.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) received a $500 million increase in contingency funds. The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) received a marginal 2 percent increase after inflation. In education, the Even Start program was not eliminated in contrast to the President’s proposal.
Some programs were level-funded without accounting for inflation. In regards to child welfare, several programs were level-funded. In regards to early childhood development, Head Start did not receive an increase accounting for inflation. In regards to the Workforce Investment Act, funds would drop 2 percent. In regards to the SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, the funding was down 1 percent counting inflation.
The full Appropriations Committee is not expected to take up this Subcommittee bill until after the July 4th recess.
Appropriations Background: Appropriations is the annual process of funding specific programs; the House and Senate Appropriations Committees are responsible for the overall funding process, and their 12 subcommittees are responsible for funding specific programs. The Appropriations Committees distribute the total amount of funding in the budget resolution (passed by Congress that sets the overall ceiling for Congressional spending) among their subcommittees. The subcommittees then hold hearings on funding bills, as well as “mark ups” where Members debate funding, consider amendments, and vote to send the bills to the full Appropriations Committees. The Appropriations Committees then hold their own mark ups before voting to send the bill to the full House or Senate for approval.
House appropriations subcommittees began work on several bills this week. Catholic Charities USA will keep you updated on specific program allotments as the appropriations process continues.
For more information, please contact Christin Driscoll, Senior Director for Policy Development and Advocacy, at cdriscoll@catholiccharitiesusa.org.
Homeless Assistance Legislation Introduced in Senate
Recently, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) introduced legislation to reauthorize the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Programs, the main source of federal funding for homeless assistance. This June marks the 20th anniversary of the McKinney-Vento Act and advocates are hopeful that the reauthorization of the Act will move forward this year.
The legislation, “The Community Partnership to End Homelessness Act of 2007” (S. 1518), is the Senate version of the reauthorization bill introduced earlier this year in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing (HEARTH) Act (H.R. 840).
Like the HEARTH Act, the Senate bill includes several positive provisions for reauthorization. For example, it consolidates the McKinney-Vento homeless assistance programs (excluding Emergency Shelter Grants). For the first time, homeless prevention efforts would also be eligible for funding. It also allows the new 25 percent match requirement for housing and supportive services to be met either in cash or with an in-kind contribution.
However, the Senate bill does not expand the HUD definition of homelessness to include persons living doubled-up with others or living in hotels or motels. This will impact the many homeless families and children who often live in such situations. Also, compared to the HEARTH Act, the Senate bill provides less flexibility for communities to meet their demonstrated local needs rather than priorities set by HUD. It codifies the HUD priority of committing 30 percent of homeless assistance funding to provide permanent housing to chronically homeless populations. This may conflict with demonstrated needs within communities where the homeless population may not include large numbers of chronically homeless persons.
Catholic Charities USA will continue to advocate for a McKinney-Vento reauthorization that provides for a balanced approach to preventing and ending homelessness. Look for upcoming opportunities to take action on ending homelessness in America.
For more information, please contact Candy Hill, Senior Vice President of Social Policy, at chill@catholiccharitiesusa.org.
Catholic Charities USA Kicks Off National Dialogue on the Role of Fatherhood: Poverty Campaign Highlights Family Connections in June
On June 14, Catholic Charities USA kicked off a national dialogue on the role that fathers play in helping children grow up in safe and supportive families. The kick-off event, hosted by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, was a conversation with low-income fathers, services providers, and community leaders to hear the challenges low-income fathers face in connecting with their children. Among those speaking were nearly a dozen fathers participating in Catholic Charities of Chicago programs, including teenagers about to become fathers, fathers who had previously been homeless, and those without employment or in low-income jobs.
These fathers spoke of their hopes and dreams for their children and the impact their fathers or a father figure had in their lives. They spoke about policies that would help dads be better fathers, such as better employment opportunities, livable wages, safe housing, and a fresh start for ex-offenders. The comments from these fathers will be utilized to bolster Catholic Charities USA’s federal advocacy efforts for policies and programs that support fathers and strengthen family connections.
If we truly want to cut poverty in half by 2020, building strong family connections—especially through providing more support for low-income fathers—must be part of the solution. Our nation’s public policies and programs have often left fathers out of the resources that have been made available to families. By supporting low-income men and fathers in a more comprehensive way, we can reduce many of the challenges that cause families to fall apart and children to fall into poverty.
Click here to read a press release on the kick-off event and Catholic Charities USA’s positions on policies that strengthen family connections.
Senate Amends, Passes Deadly Force Bill
03/23/2007 05:45 PM
The North Dakota Senate amended and passed House Bill 1319, which concerns when person can properly use of deadly force. The North Dakota Catholic Conference, along with representatives from law enforcement, state's attorneys, and the Attorney General's office, opposed the bill in the form it came over from the House. (Read the conference's testimony.)
The Senate's amendments eliminate most of all the concerns. The new bill is mostly a restatement of the existing law. The bill now goes to the House, which must decide whether to concur with the changes.
The Senate's amendments eliminate most of all the concerns. The new bill is mostly a restatement of the existing law. The bill now goes to the House, which must decide whether to concur with the changes.
Conference Testifies on Deadly Force Bill
03/16/2007 04:00 PM
The Senate Natural Resource Committee heard testimony today on House Bill 1319, which would expand when the use of deadly force can be considered proper. The North Dakota Catholic Conference joined with representatives from law enforcement, state's attorneys, and the Attorney General, as well as concerned citizens, to oppose the bill in its current form.
An excerpt from the conference's testimony:
Go here for the full testimony. Go here or here for a related column appearing in the diocesan newspapers.
An excerpt from the conference's testimony:
When and how much force an individual can use against another is ultimately a moral issue. Each lawmaker must evaluate House Bill 1319 according to whether it moves us closer to or further from fundamental moral principles found in Sacred Scripture and knowable by reason that have served as a foundation of civil society for thousands of years.
Go here for the full testimony. Go here or here for a related column appearing in the diocesan newspapers.
Bishop Aquila: Catholic Politicians Must Act Upon the Truth of the Inherent Dignity of the Human Person
02/14/2007 08:53 PM
Press Release from the Diocese of Fargo - February 14
In his diocesan newspaper column posted today on the Diocese of Fargo Web site, Most Rev. Samuel J. Aquila, bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fargo, reminds Catholic politicians of their responsibility to ensure that their actions reflect their Catholic faith.
“Every act of violence that attacks an innocent human person from the moment of conception to natural death is against the will of God and rejects the inherent dignity of the human person,” the bishop wrote. “Every Catholic politician must recognize and act upon this truth to be a faithful Catholic.”
The column is an edited version of the homily Bishop Aquila presented at the Jan. 18 Legislative Mass celebrated at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck. It will appear in New Earth, the newspaper for the Diocese of Fargo, which will be printed Feb. 15.
“We cannot leave God at the door when we walk into the legislature,” the bishop reminds Catholic politicians, “but rather we must allow the truth of God and the truth of the dignity of the human person to guide us in every decision we make. With each law or bill we consider, we must be, first, a people who recognize that there is the inherent dignity of human life that is bestowed by God and that can never be violated.”
He continues, “Once we begin to be the ones who determine what is good or what is evil, once we begin to be the ones who determine which human person has dignity and which one doesn’t, we will see…what happens to a society.” Bishop Aquila refers to the movie “Blood Diamond,” saying, “In that society the lust for power, the lust for money, the lust for control overtakes and guides the human heart, with the result that violence and murder govern the society.”
In addition to the unborn, the column addresses the dignity of illegal aliens and those sentenced to the death penalty. The bishop questions how people who believe in God can express hatred for illegal aliens or “cheer when a capital punishment sentence is given.” He notes what offenses against life are most grave. “As faithful Catholics, we acknowledge that the gravest attacks against the dignity of human life are those that destroy innocent human life, as in abortion, euthanasia and genocide.”
In his diocesan newspaper column posted today on the Diocese of Fargo Web site, Most Rev. Samuel J. Aquila, bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fargo, reminds Catholic politicians of their responsibility to ensure that their actions reflect their Catholic faith.
“Every act of violence that attacks an innocent human person from the moment of conception to natural death is against the will of God and rejects the inherent dignity of the human person,” the bishop wrote. “Every Catholic politician must recognize and act upon this truth to be a faithful Catholic.”
The column is an edited version of the homily Bishop Aquila presented at the Jan. 18 Legislative Mass celebrated at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck. It will appear in New Earth, the newspaper for the Diocese of Fargo, which will be printed Feb. 15.
“We cannot leave God at the door when we walk into the legislature,” the bishop reminds Catholic politicians, “but rather we must allow the truth of God and the truth of the dignity of the human person to guide us in every decision we make. With each law or bill we consider, we must be, first, a people who recognize that there is the inherent dignity of human life that is bestowed by God and that can never be violated.”
He continues, “Once we begin to be the ones who determine what is good or what is evil, once we begin to be the ones who determine which human person has dignity and which one doesn’t, we will see…what happens to a society.” Bishop Aquila refers to the movie “Blood Diamond,” saying, “In that society the lust for power, the lust for money, the lust for control overtakes and guides the human heart, with the result that violence and murder govern the society.”
In addition to the unborn, the column addresses the dignity of illegal aliens and those sentenced to the death penalty. The bishop questions how people who believe in God can express hatred for illegal aliens or “cheer when a capital punishment sentence is given.” He notes what offenses against life are most grave. “As faithful Catholics, we acknowledge that the gravest attacks against the dignity of human life are those that destroy innocent human life, as in abortion, euthanasia and genocide.”
Tribune: Homeless are Almost Invisible
02/14/2007 09:26 AM
We don't often think of homelessness as a problem in North Dakota. The homeless, however, are among us. This Bismarck Tribune editorial reminds of us the problem.
Aquinas on Use of Deadly Force in Self-Defense
02/10/2007 10:42 AM
House Bill 1319 would revise the state's law on how much force an individual can use in defense of self or others. To proponents, it is a "stand your ground" bill because it would, among other things, remove the requirement that a person must try to avoid using deadly force, if possible. This is sometimes known as the "duty to retreat." Note: North Dakota has already removed the duty to retreat with regards to a person's home. HB 1319 would remove the duty in other situations.
To opponents, it is a "shoot first" bill, since, in addition to removing the duty to retreat, it would create a presumption in certain cases that the person using the deadly force was in reasonably fear of imminent death or bodily injury.
How much force a private individual -- not the government -- can use to defend himself or herself is something moral theologians have pondered for centuries. Thomas Aquinas' treatment of the issue is probably the most definitive. Warning: Aquinas can be difficult to understand for the novice. Aquinas in a nutshell: (1) A private individual cannot intend to kill a person in self-defense. (2) A private individual cannot use more force than necessary to repel the aggressor. (3) The use of force is only justified if it is necessary for self-defense. If protection of the self or others can be achieved without the use of force, the use of force is not justified.
The Judiciary Committee gave House Bill 1319 a Do Not Pass recommendation by a 7 to 6 vote. The full House will vote on the bill next week.
To opponents, it is a "shoot first" bill, since, in addition to removing the duty to retreat, it would create a presumption in certain cases that the person using the deadly force was in reasonably fear of imminent death or bodily injury.
How much force a private individual -- not the government -- can use to defend himself or herself is something moral theologians have pondered for centuries. Thomas Aquinas' treatment of the issue is probably the most definitive. Warning: Aquinas can be difficult to understand for the novice. Aquinas in a nutshell: (1) A private individual cannot intend to kill a person in self-defense. (2) A private individual cannot use more force than necessary to repel the aggressor. (3) The use of force is only justified if it is necessary for self-defense. If protection of the self or others can be achieved without the use of force, the use of force is not justified.
The Judiciary Committee gave House Bill 1319 a Do Not Pass recommendation by a 7 to 6 vote. The full House will vote on the bill next week.
Catholic Disabilities Group on Ashley's Case
02/08/2007 03:36 PM
The case of Ashley, a child who was administered hormones to attenuate her growth, as well as a hysterectomy and removal of her breast buds, has received international attention. An earlier column posted on this web site mentioned the case. The National Catholic Partnership on Disability has now issued an interesting statement on the case.
Smoking, Feedlots, Zoning, and Taxes -- Questions About Subsidiarity
01/27/2007 10:02 AM
Several bills introduced this session limit the powers of local governments. The issues being addressed include land-use zoning, smoking ordinances, sales taxes, and health regulations. How much power should a local government have? Or, to put it another way, how much local control should the state take away? The Catholic Church's teaching on subsidiarity can offer guidance, if not necessarily answers, to these questions. According to the principle of subsidiarity, a community of a higher order should not interfere in the internal life of a community of a lower order, depriving the latter of its functions, but rather should support it in case of need and help to co-ordinate its activity with the activities of the rest of society, always with a view to the common good. (Catechism, No. 1883.)
Pope's World Day of Peace Message
12/14/2006 12:01 PM
Each year the Pope gives a message of peace to the world. This year's message is entitled "Both Gift and Task." The address contains many references to social teaching and the role of the state.
Advent Resources
12/04/2006 02:01 PM
Looking for Advent resources with a social justice theme? The Catholic Campaign for Human Development has an animated advent calendar on-line. The Catholic Campaign to End Global Poverty also has Advent resources to download.