Name
Michigan Catholic Conference
Phone
(800) 395-5565
Fax
(517) 372-3940
Address
510 S. Capitol Ave.
Lansing, MI 48933

The Word from Lansing

The Word from Lansing is a regular column written by Michigan Catholic Conference (MCC) staff for Catholic news outlets. Through these columns, MCC outlines current advocacy issues of importance to the Conference and discusses the Catholic position and role in the political process. This publication complements the more regular updates provided by Michigan Catholic Conference’s Catholic Advocacy Network.

A woman closes her eyes and clasps her hands in prayer over her Bible

So-Called ‘Equality Act’ Threatens Society and Religious Communities

Earlier this year, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Equality Act (HR 5), which would add new regulations in federal anti-discrimination laws for “sexual orientation” and “gender identity and expression.” However, if passed, the act would discriminate against people of faith for their beliefs about marriage, sexuality, and the place of religion in society. The Word from Lansing column shares the Church’s concerns about the bill and instructs Catholics about advocacy opportunities against it, as the measure is now before U.S. Senators. Read more…

A young girl and her mother wearing protective face masks and walking hand in hand to school.

During Pandemic, Catholic Schools Rise to the Challenge

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Catholic schools have prioritized safety while providing nearly uninterrupted instruction, which has mattered a great deal for Michigan families. Sadly, due to political disagreements among state elected officials, nonpublic schools are uncertain about the status of federal funding to assist them with COVID-related expenses. The Word from Lansing for April dives into the importance of this funding and encourages politicians to work together for the benefit of all students. Read more…

A happy family laughing on the sofa together

Small Steps of Love in the State Budget Process

Each year, the State of Michigan makes budget determinations for its people, just as a family makes decisions for the good of its members. If done well, the budget can act as a document of love and of care, recognizing all Michiganders have value and considering carefully the needs of the marginalized. The Word from Lansing column for March provides thoughts about the 2021–2022 state budget process and the priorities MCC believes should be included in the final version. Read more…

Sister Thea Bowman, on stage and smiling at an event held at Walsh University on September 18, 1989

Catholic Advocacy in 2021—Be a Light

The Catholic Church has many inspiring models of faith, including Sr. Thea Bowman, a religious sister in the early stages of consideration for sainthood. Sr. Thea’s life of service to others and dedication to her faith remind Catholics that it is important to stand up for the vulnerable and the common good, even in difficult community and policy conversations. The Word from Lansing column for February reflects upon Sr. Thea’s example and calls for Catholic to be a voice for others. Read more…

An elderly woman receives the COVID-19 vaccine from her health practitioner

COVID-19 Vaccines and Moral Considerations

Over the past ten months, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed life for people across the globe, impacting physical health, emotional well-being, and economic outcomes for families and businesses. In 2021, many are feeling optimistic with vaccines for COVID-19 becoming available, including two from Pfizer and Moderna. The Catholic bishops of Michigan recently commented on the importance of vaccinations for public health and addressed moral questions that are facing Catholics about the vaccines that are available. Read more…

A young girl washing her hands in a bathroom sink

Water Shutoffs Are a Health Concern in COVID-19 Pandemic

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, communities have recognized the important role water plays in protecting community health. As a result, Michigan implemented early pauses to water shutoffs throughout the state through an executive order, especially to encourage and facilitate frequent handwashing. State lawmakers passed legislation, which MCC supported, to again implement this temporary assistance measure for residents. Read more…

A mother smiles at her daughter, holding her on her lap in a park

Catholics Emboldened to Fight Abuse, Encourage Healing

Within the Catholic Church, all are called to care for one another and to protect one another from harm. Sadly, a recent report released by the Vatican about abuse reminds of the need to be vigilant. In light of the report’s release, MCC has written a new column to share many of the protocols that have been implemented in the Church over the past two decades to protect against and to report incidents of abuse. MCC’s Word from Lansing column also calls leaders and lay members to action, as all are needed in the work to create safe environments. Read more…

Voters standing in line, waiting to vote in front of an American flag

This Election, Let’s Vote, then Act

On Tuesday, November 3, Michiganders will participate in the 2020 Election. The Church does not endorse candidates, but it highlights the Catholic responsibility to be active in the public realm, including through voting. As Catholics consider their voting choices, they are called to consider candidate positions on a wide range of issues important to the common good, while also weighing each according to its moral importance. As the U.S. bishops outline, all issues do not bear the same moral weight on one’s conscience. Read more…

A group of three young people discussing politics while sitting outside

Promote Civility, Love Others, and Build Community This Election

Together, people of faith have the opportunity to elevate the tone of political discussions and contribute to a greater sense of civility this election season. The Word from Lansing column for September addresses the importance of committing to such actions, especially through the nonpartisan Civilize It campaign. It also highlights resources to help Catholics prepare for voting, including ten insights from Catholic saints that apply to action in the public realm. Read more…

More The Word from Lansing

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6

For a complete list of all The Word from Lansing columns, please visit the archives.

Name
Michigan Catholic Conference
Phone
(800) 395-5565
Fax
(517) 372-3940
Email
Address
510 South Capitol Avenue
Lansing, Michigan 48933
Multiple People Add Symbol Arrow Pointing Upward Two Arrows Forming a Circle Federal Building Chat Bubble Catholic Church Clipboard and Checkmark Clipboard and Plus Sign Office Building Envelope Person's Face Paper Document Flag Waving Lightning Bolt Person Raising Their Hand Key Hamburger Menu Icon Newspaper Clipping Graduation Cap Magnifying Glass Dollar Sign Five-Point Star Speech Bubbles