Scottish bishops urge Catholics to use their vote for solidarity and the common good

‘Our participation in public life expresses our love of neighbour and our desire to build a society that honours God through truth, justice, and charity.’

The Scottish Parliament election, in which Scottish citizens vote for their Member of Scottish Parliament (MSP) who then vote to appoint the new First Minister, will be held on 7 May.

The Catholic bishops of Scotland have urged Catholics to approach the election with “faith‑formed minds and hearts moved by charity”. They released an election briefing to guide voters to consider the key principles of Catholic social teaching: human dignity, the common good, solidarity, and subsidiarity.

The bishops said these principles illuminate the “key moral issues of our time”: care for the poor and vulnerable, fair and sustainable economic conditions, accessible healthcare, the protection of life from conception to natural death, the elimination of modern slavery, the strengthening of marriage and family life, care for creation, the promotion of peace and support for poorer nations, and the defence of religious freedom and conscience.

The bishops said, “Elections are not only political events but opportunities to reflect prayerfully on our responsibilities as citizens and disciples of Jesus Christ.

“Our participation in public life expresses our love of neighbour and our desire to build a society that honours God through truth, justice, and charity. The Church and the political community have distinct roles, yet both serve the good of every person.

“The Church forms consciences through the light of the Gospel, while politics shapes society’s structures. When these work together respectfully, society flourishes, especially in its care for the weakest.”

The bishops warned that many face “deep vulnerability” in Scotland, including families in poverty, the disabled, the elderly and unborn, those with poor mental health or addictions, victims of crime and modern slavery, and migrants seeking safety, and encouraged Catholics to vote with compassion for policies that will protect their dignity.

They also called Catholics to elect representatives who will defend freedom of thought, conscience and religion, enabling “diverse voices to speak without fear and handle disagreements with civility”.  This includes protecting the rights of parents fulfil their God-given right to educate their children and to choose schools that reflect their convictions.

The bishops said, “We need representatives who act with integrity, value every human life, and prioritise the poorest. Public service is noble when rooted in humility and the common good.

“These are not merely political issues, but moral ones rooted in the Gospel and the Church’s commitment to every person’s dignity. Study and pray with these principles as you discern your vote. Above all, we urge you to use your right to vote.

“We pray for respectful and honest conversation throughout this election. Political life must not be poisoned by anger, division, or populist rhetoric. May all debates reflect concern for human dignity and the common good.

“We entrust Scotland – its people, leaders, and future – to the care of Our Lady, Queen of Peace. May her intercession guide us toward justice, compassion, and unity. May the Holy Spirit inspire candidates with integrity and humility, and voters with responsibility, prayerfulness, and love of neighbour.”

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