Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee

Today, even though I really don’t support recall elections, I exercised my right to vote as a citizen of the United States of America. While I believe that recalls are meant for political misfeasance or malfeasance, I also believe that any election is an opportunity to express one’s opinion in the electoral process.

Personally, I think it’s a shame that we take for granted this sacred right secured for us by so many who fought and died for our freedoms. It always disturbs me when someone says, “Oh, I don’t think that I’ll vote. I’m really not that interested in politics.” Unfortunately, others believe their votes are so insignificant, that voting really doesn’t matter.

As Christians, we have an obligation to participate in our political process. The “Catechism of the Catholic Church” states: “As far as possible citizens should take an active part in public life. The manner of this participation may vary from one country to another. ‘One must pay tribute to those nations whose systems permit the largest possible number of the citizens to take part in public life in a climate of genuine freedom.’” (1915) It seems that the exercise of one’s right to vote is at least a minimal participation in public life.

Many people feel that politicians are corrupt. Perhaps there is some truth to that statement. However, every social endeavor is subject to corruption. In our Utopian idealism, there’s a little aspect that some Catholics have forgotten, “Original Sin” (I’ll bet that’s a theological term you haven’t heard in awhile). Our nature has been flawed due to a tendency to rank our own interests over the needs of our communities. Through God’s grace, we can rise above our flawed vision and seek what is possible for the common good.

I respect the candidates and elected officials who engage in politics. These citizens – our neighbors – expose themselves to criticisms and personal attacks; a challenging way of life for them and their families. Hopefully, this personal sacrifice is for the sake of public service. So, whatever your political persuasion, exercise your right to vote, for too many have sacrificed for any of us to act with indifference.

Remember, our ultimate motivation in every action is to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Note: This blog originally appeared as the June 5, 2012 "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki. If you are interested in signing up for these email messages, please click here.