Catholic Advocacy Day

Meeting in St. Peter's Church, Richmond, 2011

Catholic Advocacy Day 2012

All Politics is Local

Catholic Advocacy Day, a one-day event held on Jan. 26, 2012, had its most successful turnout this year with some 275 people attending to learn the issues, caucus and speak with their legislator.

Held early in the General Assembly session, Catholic Advocacy Day provides parishioners, Catholic school parents, and others the opportunity to learn about key issues being considered by the Virginia General Assembly. A good showing of participants can make a difference in how legislators act to defend life, the poor, immiigrants, marriage, parental choice in education and religious freedom, among other issues important to the common good.

The day began with welcoming remarks from Bishops DiLorenzo and Loverde, followed by prayer and briefings on proposed state policies in the areas of concern. Following briefings, participants from Catholic churches and schools throughout Virginia met in groups to discuss the issues, then headed to the General Assembly building for constituent visits at legislators’ offices. Afterwards, Mass, lunch, and a debriefing were held.

Take a look at the Conference's 2012 Legislative Agenda, which will provide the framework for its advocacy efforts this session. Also see our 2012 Issue Sheets.

Catholic Advocacy Day 2011

Catholics from both Virginia dioceses gathered for the annual Catholic Advocacy Day on Jan. 27, 2011. The event started at St. Peter's Church in downtown Richmond, before moving on to the General Assembly Building. Among those gathered were Catholic school children who visited their legislators after the issues briefing. Arlington Bishop Paul S. Loverde welcomed those who made it to the event despite heavy snowfall throughout the state the evening before.