Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

More than 30 Catholics from the Diocese of Orlando traveled to Tallahassee on February 6-7, 2024, to participate in the annual Catholic Days at the Capitol event. Organized by the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, this event allows Catholics to engage with state representatives and senators in defense of Catholic values and to advocate for laws that uphold the life and dignity of all individuals.

During their visit, the group of Catholics actively participated in the legislative session, fulfilling their civil duty by voicing their concerns and opinions on various issues. Their presence served as a powerful witness to the importance of Catholic values in the public sphere.

Bishop John Noonan of the Diocese of Orlando expressed the significance of this event, stating, "Catholic Days at the Capitol provides an opportunity for Catholics to engage in the democratic process and to promote the values that are fundamental to our faith. It is our duty as Catholics to be actively involved in shaping a just and compassionate society."

The Catholics from the Diocese of Orlando were joined by Catholics from across the state of Florida, collectively standing as advocates for the principles and teachings of the Catholic Church. Their presence demonstrated the strength and unity of the Catholic community in Florida.

In addition to defending Catholic values, the group also showed support for legislation that upholds the sanctity of life and the dignity of every individual. Their presence and active participation in the legislative process highlighted the importance of protecting the vulnerable and promoting a culture of life.

Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops Executive Director, Michael Sheedy, emphasized the significance of Catholics engaging in the political sphere, saying, "As Catholics, we are called to be active participants in the public square. Catholic Days at the Capitol provides the opportunity for us to bring our faith into the public discourse and to contribute to the common good."

Catholic Days at the Capitol is an annual event that allows Catholics to make their voices heard and to advocate for policies that align with their religious beliefs. By actively participating in the democratic process and engaging with their elected officials, these Catholics from the Diocese of Orlando and across Florida are making a tangible impact on the legislative decisions of the state.

As the event concluded, the Catholics from the Diocese of Orlando returned home, knowing that they had fulfilled their duty as faithful citizens and defenders of Catholic values. Their efforts serve as a reminder to all Catholics of the importance of active engagement in shaping a just and compassionate society.

In the words of one participant, "Being able to come together with other Catholics and advocate for our beliefs is empowering. Catholic Days at the Capitol allows us to make a difference and stand up for what we believe in."

Catholic Days at the Capitol is not only a demonstration of the commitment of Catholics in Florida to their faith but also a testament to the enduring influence of Catholic values in the public sphere.