Catholic Bishops of Canada on the Upcoming Election "Let us pray for our country, for all political candidates" - "we are called to form our consciences prayerfully" FULL TEXT

Statement to the Catholic Faithful by the Permanent Council of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops on the 2025 Federal ElectionWednesday, April 23, 2025 (Image of Major Political Candidates in the Canadian Election)
In this Jubilee Year of Hope 2025, as we prepare for a federal election in Canada, it is essential that, as citizens and Catholics, we reflect on the challenges currently facing our nation with a spirit of hope and a vision for a better future.

In a free and democratic society, all those eligible to vote have not only a right, but also a responsibility to engage with local candidates and political parties. We are called to discern which policies best serve the common good—that which the Church defines as “the sum of those conditions of … social life whereby people, families and associations more adequately and readily may attain their own perfection” (Gaudium et Spes, n. 74.1). As faithful citizens, we are invited to help shape our earthly society in accordance with God’s divine plan, always mindful that “our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Phil 3:20).

Our Catholic faith provides essential moral and social guidance, helping us understand and respond to the critical issues facing our country. The role of pastors—especially the Pope and bishops—is to articulate the principles of faith and Church teaching so that the lay faithful may form their consciences accordingly. As the Church teaches, it is the duty of the faithful “to see that the divine law is inscribed in the life of the earthly city” (Gaudium et Spes, n. 43.2).

There are many issues which we, as Catholics, are called to consider thoroughly when voting. Among them is the fundamental right to life—from conception to natural death. This right is being undermined by the lack of legal protection for the unborn, the ongoing expansion of eligibility for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), and the insufficient access to quality palliative care for those who are suffering at the end of life.

We must also advocate for the most vulnerable in our society: those living in poverty, victims of human trafficking, individuals suffering from mental illness and addiction, the homeless, and immigrants—each deserving of both social and legal support. Furthermore, there is increasing concern over growing intolerance toward religious communities in Canada, including threats to remove charitable tax status simply for upholding values rooted in faith that diverge from prevailing secular ideologies.

This election is a profound opportunity for Catholics to contribute to building a civilization of love. We are called to walk together in justice and truth with Indigenous Peoples. We are asked to examine policies that affect access to education, healthcare, housing, and social services for all, and to support initiatives that honour the family as the fundamental unit of society and uphold the dignity of every human person, created male and female in the image of God.

In a time of significant economic uncertainty, Canada needs a national economic vision that promotes the common good while respecting international obligations and fostering global solidarity. Economic development must be rooted in justice, stewardship of creation, and care for the vulnerable—both at home and abroad.

After careful reflection on these matters in the light of faith, we are called to form our consciences prayerfully and to express our convictions through our vote. Let us pray for our country, for all political candidates, and for our fellow citizens. Before casting our ballots, let us pause in personal prayer—perhaps by reciting the Lord’s Prayer—and ask God’s blessing upon those who will be elected to lead our nation.
23 April 2025
CCCB Release with Photo Added from Elections Canada