Catholics in Political Life

One of the thorniest discussion topics among Catholics is politics. Politics is hands-off by many Catholics, especially around Cafeteria Catholics, who pick and choose their doctrine.

Catholics and Politics
This is strange to me, because the bishops of the United States are hands-on when it comes to political policy. In fact, the Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us we have a responsibility (read "sin not to exercise") our duties as citizens:

The Church, because of her commission and competence, is not to be confused in any way with the political community. She is both the sign and the safeguard of the transcendent character of the human person. "The Church respects and encourages the political freedom and responsibility of the citizen"(Catechism of the Catholic Church, #2245).

While it is generally a venial sin not to exercise our duty to vote, it can become a mortal sin when, with sufficient knowledge and full consent of the will, a person becomes a deciding vote in an election that has a moral issue at the center of it:

"Mortal sin requires full knowledge and complete consent" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1859).

 Despite many bishops speaking out about abortion being the most important issue in the 2008 elections, 53% of Catholics voted for Obama. Disregarding the informed opinion of a bishop is a lack of faith in Catholicism. We must give it due consideration.

Should We Discuss Politics Among Catholics?
It is our duty to inform and educate. Of course, we must do such according to our competencies (Christefidelis Laici, 62). Politics is often avoided. When I was studying Speech Communications, one of the key rules they said was "Do not discuss religion and politics at work or a Social."  We, however, have a different calling.

We must educate our fellow Catholics on doctrine, and how our faith should inform our voting habits. We should put Catholicism at the head of our list when choosing a candidate. In my opinion, no issue is more important in the upcoming election, except maybe the economy and possible bankruptcy of our Country.