Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green

plants, I now give you everything.

Do Christians have to vote?

Why?YES? NO?

“Be careful how you live; you will be the only Bible some people will ever read.”

Take a minute to think quietly on your own about this quote.

How would you recognize a follower of Christ by the way that they vote?

Catechism of the Catholic Church

Official Church teaching states:

It is “morally obligatory to pay taxes, to exercise the right to vote, and to defend one's country”

Discuss in pairs

1.What does “morally obligatory” mean?

2.Do you agree that it is “morally obligatory” to vote?

3.Do you have any other thoughts on these teachings?

Russell Brand… “I have never voted.”

Russell Brand on revolution: “We no longer have the luxury of tradition” (2013 New Statesman)

“I have never voted. Like most people I am utterly disenchanted by politics. As far as I’m concerned there is nothing to vote for.”

Discuss in pairs

1.Why does Russell Brand choose not to vote?

2.Do you agree with his decision?

Toni Pearce (journalist at The New Statesman)…

Toni Pearce - Russell Brand is wrong…

“If you don’t vote, you won’t have your voice heard. If you want to see yourself reflected in parliament elect people

who can achieve this. Seriously look at the candidates in your constituency and work out who is most closely affiliated to

your values.”

Discuss in pairs1.Why does Toni Pearce say that if you don’t vote “you won’t have your voice heard”? 2.How can you decide which person to vote for in an election?

Class activity:

Make a poster encouraging people to take an interest in politics and

to vote.Why is voting important to Christians?

.

“Prayer

Lord we pray for all those who are about to vote in the General Election, help them to think about everyone in our society as they make their choice.We pray especially for the needy and

vulnerable people in our societyAmen