Do Christians have to vote?

YES? NO? Why?

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?

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 Why does Russell Brand choose not to vote? 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 pairs Why does Toni Pearce say that if you don’t vote “you won’t have your voice heard”? How can you decide which person to vote for in an election?

Why is voting important? 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.