Episode 55: Faithful Citizenship

Eyes on Jesus with Archbishop Vigneron

With the Nov. 5 election fast approaching, Archbishop Vigneron gives advice to Catholics trying to navigate election season in an increasingly polarized society. He and our hosts draw from the wisdom of the Church and guidance from the U.S. bishops in their discussion about forming consciences, responding to divisiveness, and trusting that “whatever direction the history of the United States takes, ultimately, the Lord is in charge.”

(0:24) Hosts Mike Chamberland and Mary Wilkerson welcome Archbishop Vigneron to another episode of Eyes on Jesus. As they discuss the summer coming to an end, Archbishop Vigneron shares about the joys of leading the annual summer seminar for Detroit seminarians and celebrating a Jubilee Mass for men and women in religious life who are celebrating milestone years in their life of service to the Church.

(5:43) Mary introduces today’s topic of faithful citizenship, an important topic for Catholics to consider ahead of the Nov. 5 general election. Archbishop Vigneron defines a faithful citizen as someone who participates in the political order in light of the teachings of Christ and the Church. The group then discusses Pope Francis’ call for a better kind of politics, one truly at the service of the common good.

(12:07) Mike asks how Catholics should respond to the polarization in our society, especially surrounding a contentious election. Archbishop Vigneron mentions the “Civilize It” initiative by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, an effort promoting charity, clarity, and creativity in political discourse. He also explains why the Church supports certain ballot initiatives while refraining from endorsing any political candidates.

(20:48) Archbishop Vigneron lists some of the issues Catholics can think about when discerning which candidates to support and explains why abortion is considered the “preeminent” issue for consideration.

(26:30) Archbishop Vigneron is asked how parishes in the Archdiocese of Detroit can approach this election season. He points out the irony of St. Peter and St. Paul telling the faithful to pray for the emperor “at a time when the emperor was no particular friend for Christians.” Following this example, he encourages Catholics to recognize that our leaders are God’s stewards, whether or not they realize it, and it’s our responsibility to pray for God’s plan to work through their lives. He also gives advice to people struggling with polarization in their communities and even families, reminding listeners that “whatever direction the history of the United States takes, ultimately, the Lord is in charge.”

(34:48) Mike invites listeners to visit aod.org/election to access resources on faithful citizenship, including the materials discussed during the episode. Archbishop Vigneron offers the “rule of thumb” of considering every initiative and candidate in light of what most advances the family and affirms participation in politics as part of the priesthood of the faithful.

(39:54) Archbishop Vigneron answers listener questions about agreeing with the Pope, saints he’s close to, and why Catholic weddings take place inside churches. He then closes the episode with a prayer and blessing.