Do Christians have to vote?

1
Do Christians have to vote?
2
Why?
YES?
NO?
3
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
• What does morally obligatory mean?
• Do you agree that it is morally obligatory to
  vote?
• Do you have any other thoughts on these
  teachings?

4
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 Im
concerned there is nothing to vote for. 

• Discuss in pairs
• Why does Russell Brand choose not to vote?
• Do you agree with his decision?

5
Toni Pearce (journalist at The New Statesman)
Toni Pearce - Russell Brand is wrong If you
dont vote, you wont 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 pairs
• Why does Toni Pearce say that if you dont vote
  you wont have your voice heard?
• How can you decide which person to vote for in an
  election?

6
Class activity Make a poster encouraging
people to take an interest in politics and to
vote.

• Why is voting important?
• Using the handout and the information we
  discussed to show why voting is important.