"Those who are directly involved in lawmaking bodies have a grave and clear obligation to oppose any law that attacks human life," said the document, which focused particularly on abortion and euthanasia. "For them, as for every Catholic, it is impossible to promote such laws or to vote for them."
Text of letter that Bishop Smith had read, prior to the 2000 election.
Diocese of Trenton
Office of the Bishop
I hereby direct that the attached letter be read at all Masses scheduled for the weekend of November 4/5, 2000 in all parishes and missions of the Diocese of Trenton. Legal Counsel cautions that this letter should be read without additional comments.
Thank you for your implementation of this directive.
November 3, 2000
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
On this weekend prior to our national election, I encourage you to exercise your right to vote on Tuesday. Election 2000 is critically important and will shape our national life for decades to come.
There is a multitude of serious issues facing voters this year as described in the U.S. Bishops' document entitled Faithful Citizenship. However, following the teaching of Pope John Paul's 1995 encyclical The Gospel of Life, rising above other issues is our moral responsibility to respect and sustain human life from conception to natural death.
In this context, we know that support and promotion of abortion is always wrong and can never be justified. Opposition to abortion must be a priority for Catholics who support the Church's teaching about the sacredness of life.
As you cast your ballot on Election Day, you will make your own decisions about your choices and that is as it should be. I pray that your decisions will take into consideration the teachings of the Church on all life issues. Here is an opportunity to stand up and be counted in support of life.
With prayers for our nation's future and its elected leaders, I am
Faithfully yours in Christ,
Most Reverend John M. Smith
Bishop of Trenton
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