Role of Government
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Because we are social beings, the state is natural to the person. Therefore, the state has a positive moral function. It is an instrument to promote human dignity, protect human rights, and build the common good. It's purpose is to assist citizens in fulfilling their responsibility to others in society. Since, in a large and complex society these responsibilities cannot adequately be carried out on a one-to-one basis, citizens need the help of government in fulfilling these responsibilities and promoting the common good. According to the principle of subsidiarity, the functions of government should be performed at the lowest level possible, as long as they can be performed adequately. If they cannot, then a higher level of government should intervene to provide help. |
It is often expressed that churches should not be involved in politics. Why is that? How does one balance the needs of the community with the call to lead a holy life?
Jesus himself was not immune to politics. He often spoke up against the rulers of the day, especially if they were more concerned about themselves and power than those most in need. His crucifixion was pushed by those in power because of what he said, how he challenged their authority and how he called all to love God and neighbor.
Today this is also a challenge to people of faith – to speak up for those who are most in need by loving our neighbor. As active citizens we are called to raise up the needs of the community and work with those in government to provide for those needs. These are acts of outreach and working to build structures of a just community. As people of faith we can look to our faith for guidance and strength so that the common good is built and human dignity of all neighbors is ensured.
Please send an e-mail to Jason in the Social Ministry office if you would like to receive legislative action alerts and information on important bills via e-mail. These action alerts are sent by the Archdiocese’s Office of Social Justice and Isaiah.
IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT A PARTICULAR ISSUE:
You can contact your local, state or federal representatives if you are concerned about a particular issue. You may also contact Jason in the Social Ministry office. Only by listening the needs to those within our community can grassroots community organizing action happen. Once issues are identified, parishioners can use collective action to impact decisions that affect us.
The following is a list of resources that can help you identify your representative at all levels:
For residents of Crystal: http://www.ci.crystal.mn.us/
For residents of New Hope: http://www.ci.new-hope.mn.us/
For residents of Plymouth: www.ci.plymouth.mn.us
To learn who your state representatives are: http://www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/Districtfinder.asp
To learn who your federal representatives are: http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE:
Hennepin County offers various assistance programs for food, health care, and child care for those in need. For more information on its various programs, call (612) 348-4111 or visit http://tinyurl.com/2k4ms8.
Overview | Human Dignity | Common Good | Rights and Responsibilities | Option for the Poor | Participation
Dignity of Work I Stewardship of Creation I Solidarity I Role of Government I Promotion of Peace
This page was last updated on 11/24/2008