Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

As the November 5 general election approaches, Deacon Dave Camous, director of the permanent diaconate, has been considering how best to prepare diaconal candidates to respond effectively in this politically charged year. He emphasized the importance of parish leaders responsibly teaching the Church’s position on forming consciences.

A recent 90-minute workshop titled "Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: The Role of the Deacon in Pastoral Leadership During an Election Year" was held. It was based on teachings from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and aimed at helping Catholics navigate these times by exercising their civic duties grounded in Gospel truth.

Deacon Richard Ferris from Blessed Sacrament Parish in Clermont attended with about 30 others. He noted that while he is not overly political, this election feels particularly polarized. His focus was on learning how to communicate Catholic teachings without alienating members of either political party.

The workshop stressed that each person should be seen as a child of God and encouraged attendees to assume positive intentions from others—a concept rooted in Ignatian theology. Listening patiently and seeking understanding were also highlighted as important practices.

Deacon Elbert Pagan from St. Rose of Lima Parish shared his struggle with maintaining focus amid societal noise and sought guidance on aligning decisions with Gospel teachings. He found value in recognizing conflict as a chance for growth and deeper understanding.

Participants were reminded that voting should not be based solely on one issue but should consider broader implications, including various life dignity issues such as immigration and poverty alongside abortion debates.

Deacon Camous clarified that conscience involves both reason and emotion, urging participants to make informed decisions based on truth rather than feelings alone. He underscored that no political candidate or party can be equated with Jesus Christ; thus, Catholics must form their consciences through study, reflection, and prayer.

The USCCB highlights the role of Catholics in engaging politically as an expression of faith but warns against divisive rhetoric replacing constructive debate. Deacon Pagan expressed hope for healing within Christian communities which could extend nationally.

Deacon Ferris plans to apply what he learned by being more mindful about how his words impact others while remaining true to Church teachings.

Resources available for voter discernment include materials from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Faithful Citizenship initiative, Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, and Florida Catholic Advocacy Network.