Have You Taken the Civility Pledge?

Does your family like to talk politics? Do those discussions sometimes get a little uneasy, or even uncomfortable? As Thanksgiving and holiday family gatherings approach, consider taking the pledge of civility. That upcoming dinner with your opinionated Uncle Henry and your college-aged, future political science major may call for a bit of reserve on your part. The U.S. bishops have prepared an online pledge whereby Catholics can make a promise to maintain their composure, even as they face opposing political views from family members.

As Catholics, we are called to engage in the political issues of our day, but we must do so without attacking those whose views differ from ours. The pledge offers us a chance to pledge civility, clarity, and compassion, speaking Catholic truth grounded in the teachings of the Church and with respect for the dignity of those who might disagree with us. 

It also offers us a chance to examine our conscience to help us inform ourselves about the moral teachings of the Church and how they should guide our decisions about political issues of the day. Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debate. Take the pledge today!