Legislative Advocacy Committee
The Spirituality Commission includes the Legislative Advocacy Committee. The mission of the Legislative Advocacy Committee is to encourage legislative advocacy within the affiliations of the Orlando Diocese Council of Catholic Women by providing resources to the members that will help guide a formation of conscience rooted in Catholic Social Teaching. This Committee encourages all women to promote Catholic values in the public square in accordance with the guidance provided by the Office of Advocacy and Justice of the Diocese of Orlando, the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Our objectives are to facilitate an understanding of and participation in the legislative process; to empower women with the tools to analyze current and proposed laws; and to promote action with mercy that will effect greater social and economic justice in our society at local, state and national levels. All Council members are strongly encouraged to participate annually in Catholic Days at the Capitol, an initiative of the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops. Suggested resources to empower and educate members are readily available at:
http://www.orlandodiocese.org/ministries-offices/advocacy-and-justice
http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/index.cfm
With elections coming up soon, we are hearing a lot about forming consciences for faithful citizenship.
The focus of documents from the Florida Bishops and USCCB are concerned with WHAT to stand for rather than WHOM to vote for. Elections are not popularity contests. Our vote should reflect what we as Catholics stand for. Our vote should not be based on a party, a personality, a person, a race or a gender.
Some things Catholics should know:
* Intrinsic evil is always incompatible with love of God and neighbor; always opposed to the authentic good of persons; never a situation where the action is justified; we can never support intrinsically evil actions.
* Abortion is # 1 on the list of intrinsic evils, euthanasia is #2. They are considered preeminent priorities. Preeminent: "surpassing all others; very distinguished in some way."
"Those who knowingly, willingly, and directly support public policies or legislation that undermine fundamental moral principles cooperate with evil" (FPFC, 31)
Before you cast your vote, find out where the candidates stand on issues that should be important to you as a Catholic. Know where they stand on all issues, including what our children could be exposed to in public schools. Learn more at the references below:
Resource from USCCB:
This document was used to provide information in this post Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship
Resource from Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops
Resource from Florida Family Policy (bottom line positions on issues with references)
Statement on the Defeat of Amendment 4
We are profoundly relieved at the defeat of Florida’s pro-abortion Amendment 4. This is a positive outcome for Florida and all efforts to promote the flourishing of our state.
Though Amendment 4 failed to reach the 60% threshold required to pass, a majority of Floridians voting in the general election supported it. While significant gains to protect women and preborn children in recent years will remain in place, abortion in Florida will continue at a very high rate under our current laws.
Much work remains to open hearts and minds to the dignity and goodness of life in the womb and at every stage. We will continue to proclaim in our churches and in the public square the value of every human life and to highlight that there is a better way forward for women, families and society than abortion. Through our many ministries, we will continue to support, encourage and assist pregnant women and young families. For those who regret their abortion or abortions, or their cooperation in one, we reiterate that the Lord is eager to forgive, and the Church is ready to facilitate healing.
We express our gratitude to all those who worked against Amendment 4, giving of their time, talent and resources. Those efforts were clearly fruitful in this election and will reverberate to the good for generations to come.
God bless the people of Florida.
Dear Sisters in Christ,
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! You have made a difference with your dedication and courage to speak out against Amendment 4. Through your speaking out at meetings, talking to your friends and family, having signs in your yard or stickers on your car, your prayer and devotion to Our Lady has been fruitful. I am brought to tears when I think of the thousands of babies who will now have a chance at life! I am so proud to be part of the Orlando Diocese Council of Catholic Women! Enjoy your victory!
Kim Kendall, ODCCW President 2024-2026