Press Releases21 Feb 11

Churches encourage active engagement in the election process

The Irish Inter Church Committee sees next week’s General Election as an opportunity to bring hope through a renewed engagement in society, by acting for the change we wish to see.

The committee, co-chaired by Cardinal Sean Brady and Most Rev Dr. Richard Clarke, President of the Irish Council of Churches, met in Dundalk, on the Thursday 17th February 2011, keenly aware of forthcoming elections both North and South.

We encourage the electorate to engage fully in a process of active discernment throughout the election period. It is a time to ask robust questions of political candidates and make prudent choices in the light of Christian values. All Christians share a civic duty in shaping the future of our country. We therefore encourage everybody to go out and vote.

The Hebrew-Christian Scriptures knew nothing of political parties, as we know them, or modern parliamentary democracy. Nevertheless they show clear and eternal values that can guide our political choices. These include: justice to the poor, the wellbeing of the whole society, a realistic hope for the future and solidarity imbued with mercy. These are core values of the Christian message.

This State now faces an election where the people are choosing leaders who will guide us through one of the most difficult periods in the Republic’s history. We have an opportunity to consider a higher set of ideals for the country as it embraces the wide range of social, economic, political and cultural changes that are taking place. We remember the words of Isaiah, ‘See, I am doing a new thing.’

There is a justifiable tendency for many to respond negatively to the severe and tangible economic and social challenges that are upon us. This crisis can however also be an opportunity to make a difference in one another’s lives by working together for the good of all in a more equal society. We therefore affirm the need for a new era of social and civic participation, based on a rich sense of community and especially working alongside those most vulnerable.

As churches we pray for all those contesting the elections and for God’s guidance over our future leaders. We affirm the Sovereignty of God in Ireland and seek God’s justice, peace and hope through this time of political change.