Current Issue

Our Faith in Action

Stories That Model Catholic Social Teaching

We are called to be informed citizens, but what does that mean to Catholic voters? What issues should be considered when we are examining candidates? In these profiles, Parable offers examples of the four principles of Catholic social teaching, which the United States bishops offer as a framework for making decisions in public life. Forming our consciences as Catholic voters is one important role, and one we take seriously in New Hampshire. We are called to live lives of Christian Beatitude that form the heart of Jesus’ teaching and Catholic social doctrine. The people and organizations profiled in the following stories show that building a world of respect that promotes the common good, dignity of the human person, and teaches us to live in solidarity as one human family involves much more than a one-time political commitment. It is our life-long work. 

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Dear Father Kerper

Dear Father Kerper: When it comes to politics, I feel confused and frustrated. Some candidates seem to have morally good positions on a few issues, but have really bad positions on others. And I am deeply troubled by candidates who act rudely, even cruelly, yet present themselves as good Christians. Everything seems jumbled. I even think about not voting at all. Why doesn’t the Church give Catholics clearer directions about how to vote?

Many faithful Catholics share your unease as they navigate through the noise and bitterness of contemporary American politics. Moreover, some well-meaning Catholics try to convince other Catholics to vote as a bloc for or against specific candidates or parties. This violates the Church’s long-standing defense of freedom of conscience in politics. There is no Catholic party.

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How Codependency Mimics Christian Love

It’s a strange and beautiful thing, becoming one flesh. When two people marry, they begin the lifelong process of intertwining their hearts, growing into each other’s lives, sharing joys, sharing sorrows, finding self-worth through assuming responsibility for each other’s emotions and behaviors . . .

Hold up. That last part doesn’t belong. That last part describes something we call “codependency,” and it has no place in a loving relationship. It’s very common to find it there, though, because it’s great at mimicking sacrificial love.

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Other Columns in the Current Issue

Bishop's Message - Advancing the Common Good
Catholic Quiz
Dear Father Kerper - Why is Prayer the Ultimate Political Act?
Cover Story - Our Faith in Action
Keeping Faith With Teens - Where Have All the Sneakers Gone?
On Call With Dr. Pepe - CMC welcomes New NaProTECHNOLOGY Doctor
Marriage and Family Life - How Copendency Mimics Christian Love
Catholic Charities Report - Scholarships Help CCNH Nurses Advance Their Careers
Catholic Life - Lead, Kindly Light
Have You Ever Thought of Being a Priest? - Meet Father Volney DeRosia
Your Faith - Lent: The Opportunities for Renewal are Endless
School Profile - Holy Trinity School, Laconia
Local News
Calendar of Events
7 Days a Pastor: Reflections from Father Andrew Nelson - The Great Sleep Bandit
Mission Moment - Hospital Chaplains: The Heart of Catholic Healthcare