1 October 2026
Dear Clergy and Laity of the Diocese of Lake Charles,
Greetings in the Lord, who is our hope!
An important midterm election is fast approaching. As I have done in the past, I wish to offer a brief word of guidance, particularly concerning the importance of conscience for the Catholic voter.
The integrity of one's conscience requires that a Catholic form his or her judgment according to the authentic moral teaching of the Church and carefully consider the positions and intentions of those seeking public office. This responsibility is especially serious when fundamental human goods are at stake. The protection of innocent human life, particularly from abortion, remains a "preeminent priority" for Catholics (cf. USCCB, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, 2023).
The more fundamental the issue — such as the protection of human life, marriage and the family, or religious freedom — the greater its importance in forming a correct moral judgment. Catholics, therefore, should give serious consideration to how the candidates' positions and stated intentions correspond to these fundamental principles of the Church's moral teaching. Catholics recognize both the legitimate right of nations to regulate their borders and the fundamental human rights of every person, including immigrants who enter or remain without lawful authorization. Catholics should therefore uphold legitimate immigration laws while also treating immigrants with justice and charity (cf. CCC 2241).
A useful question for the Catholic voter is this: In voting for a particular candidate, to what end am I contributing? What good am I seeking to accomplish? Voting is a serious exercise of our responsibility as citizens, since our choices contribute to the direction of our society and to the policies enacted by those whom we elect.
This guidance is offered without prejudice toward any candidate or political party. Rather, it is intended to remind the Catholics of this Diocese that voting is a serious moral responsibility. We are called to form our consciences carefully, to act according to truth, and to recognize that our decisions and actions ultimately take place under the judgment of God: "Every one of us shall give account of himself to God." (Romans 14:12).
With prayers for your intentions and the assurance of our Lord's constant care for us, I remain
Sincerely yours in our Lord,
