Classroom Activities

October: Faithful Citizenship

Every four years in November, United States citizens embark on the serious business of electing a president. And every two years, at the same time of year, we elect members of Congress. However, elections are not the only ways that we play a part in the significant work our government. Each day, policies are made and bills voted on by our governments. These bills and policies impact our lives and the lives of our brothers and sisters around the world.

If you are 18 years old or older, you have a very direct role in elections--that of voter. However, no matter your age, if there's an election at hand, or just the daily work of government, we invite you to consider Faithful Citizenship--how to be a Catholic citizen and voter, how to make your voice heard through the very public, very important choices you make on Election Day and the work you do to influence the government between elections. Now's the time to really dig deep and wonder, "What would Jesus do?" ...even if there's no clear answer.

But not to get mired down in political issues, we also look at the fun-loving side of this time of year: our favorite candy-filled, mask-wearing, trick-or-treating day known as Halloween. Where did Halloween come from? Is it a holiday invented by Hershey's? What's the real reason for the ghosts, spooks, and goblins that we associate with this day?

Disciples and Citizens
Seven Ways to a Better World
Top Ten Things that Catholic Voters (and Future Voters) Need to Know
Top Ten Things to Know about Halloween