| Inside this issue |
| Christmas Greetings! | ||
 As we reflect back on 2015, we want to sincerely thank you for advocating on behalf of poor and vulnerable people. By responding to WSCC action alerts and participating in Catholic Advocacy Day, you help fulfill our calling as Catholics to be a voice for the voiceless. As we celebrate the wonderful gift of the Incarnation, we wish you great joy and deep peace this Christmas. |
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| Bishops Update Statement on the Common Good | ||
 The Catholic Bishops of Washington State have released a revision of Seeking the Common Good, a WSCC statement issued first in 2003 and updated in 2011. In their role as pastors, the bishops want people to "inform their consciences so that they may establish public policies that work for the good of all, especially the most vulnerable people." The statement lays out several moral principles to help guide the public discussion on how best to meet the needs of society by an equitable sharing of resources.After reviewing the great needs of poor and vulnerable people, the bishops affirm that "[c]harities and volunteer groups have a responsibility to meet basic human needs in society, but we believe government also shares in this role as many needs cannot be met by individuals and groups." The bishops examine the main revenue sources for state government and state that "all available revenue options must receive careful consideration." Finally, the bishops pledge "to pray and work with all people of good will to assure that everyone shares in the bounty we have received from God's goodness." Click here to download the revised statement. |
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| Register for Catholic Advocacy Day, February 8, 2016 | ||
 With the 2016 Legislative session beginning on January 11, it's time to register for Catholic Advocacy Day 2016. The Advocacy Day will be held on Monday, February 8, 2016, in Olympia. The day will begin at 9:00 am at St. Michael's parish with legislative briefings and Mass, followed by important meetings with legislators at the Capitol. To register, visit ipjc.org. Promotional flyers can be downloaded here. English version or Spanish version |
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| Prepares Launches New Website | ||
 The Prepares program has launched a new website that will serve parents as well as volunteers. The new site offers an introductory video by the three Bishops, as well as calendars for upcoming classes, and resources organized by diocese. Visit this wonderful new resource and learn about what Prepares offers to young families in your community. |
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| Year of Mercy Begins | ||
 The Jubilee Year of Mercy began on Dec. 8, 2015. A handout reflects on Pope Francis' words about mercy and includes ideas for response, a prayer, and helpful links. More materials for the Jubilee Year of Mercy are available on the USCCB Evangelization and Catechesis website. |
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| Poverty Awareness Month - January | ||
 During Poverty Awareness Month this January, join the U.S. Bishops, the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and the Catholic community in the United States in taking up Pope Francis' challenge to live in solidarity with those "trapped in the cycle of poverty" (9/24/15, Address to Congress). The printable calendar (also in Spanish) is perfect to hang on a wall or door, while longer daily reflections (en Español) provide food for prayer and action for each day of the month. Sign up for daily emails during Poverty Awareness Month here. Click here to view this bulletin on the WSCC website. The Washington State Catholic Conference (WSCC) is the public policy voice of the Catholic Bishops of Washington State. |
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