re: "Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Political Activity Guidelines for Catholic Entities in Pennsylvania"

Robert O'Hara, Ph.D.
Pa Catholic Conf Exec Dir
National Assoc of State Catholic Conf Directors President

223 North Street, PO Box 2835

Harrisburg, PA 17105

Dear Dr. O'Hara,
I received today's email from the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference, which directed me to your "Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Political Activity Guidelines for Catholic Entities in Pennsylvania" - which I read with great interest.

Even when candidates draw clear and unambiguous moral lines in the sand, your first paragraph introduces the major theme of the guidelines: "The tradition of the Church is not to tell people for whom to vote, but rather to help the faithful form their consciences through consistent teaching."  Yet, all of us certainly know that numerous people are in need of guidance in forming their consciences which is quite concrete, direct, and explicit.

Your introduction goes on to mention that your guidelines have passed muster with your legal counsel. 

I would be extremely interested in knowing whether justifications can be cited in the Catechism and/or Canon Law.

At least in the archdiocese of Philadelphia, we seem to have a tragic recent history emanating from excessive reliance on attorneys.

Thank you,