Election season can stir up strong emotions. Whether it’s debates over policies, candidates, or the future direction of the country, the tension is palpable. Conversations around elections often bring out differing opinions, and sometimes, these differences can cause rifts between friends, family members, and even fellow members of the faith community. As Catholics, we are called to respond to all situations, especially those that challenge us, with charity—the highest form of love that seeks the good of others and strives for unity in Christ.
In these divisive times, maintaining charity in our relationships during the election season is more important than ever. So how can we stay grounded in our faith and avoid letting political differences create lasting tensions or harm our relationships? Here are a few thoughts on how to approach election season with a heart of charity.
1. Practice Active Listening
One of the most important tools in managing any tense conversation is listening. Active listening means really hearing what the other person is saying—not just waiting for your turn to speak, but giving them space to express their thoughts and feelings fully.
In political discussions, it’s easy to tune out someone who disagrees with you, but to maintain charity, we must remember that every person’s opinion is shaped by their experiences, values, and concerns. Taking the time to truly listen can not only help you understand where the other person is coming from but also helps to keep the conversation respectful and open, rather than escalating into an argument.
2. Respond with Humility
It can be tempting to become defensive when someone challenges your views. However, humility is key when navigating any difficult conversation. Rather than feeling the need to “win” the argument or prove the other person wrong, approach the conversation with an open heart, willing to learn and understand, rather than dominate.
As Catholics, we are called to humility, recognizing that we do not have all the answers. Humility allows us to be open to correction, to new perspectives, and to the fact that our opinions may not be the only valid ones. Responding with humility is an act of charity that respects the dignity of the other person, no matter where they stand politically.
3. Avoid Personal Attacks
During tense political discussions, it’s important to remember that the person you’re engaging with is not the issue. The issue is often the policies, ideas, or candidates being discussed. However, it’s all too easy for discussions to turn personal, with individuals questioning each other’s integrity, intelligence, or even morality based on political views.
Charity demands that we keep the discussion focused on ideas, not on attacking the person with whom we disagree. Personal insults or dismissive comments only serve to widen the divide and breed resentment. Instead, strive to engage with respect, acknowledging that while you may disagree, the other person’s dignity remains intact.
4. Pray for Peace and Unity
In times of division, prayer can be a powerful tool for healing and clarity. As Catholics, we believe that prayer is not only a way to communicate with God but also a way to intercede on behalf of others, asking for the grace of peace, understanding, and charity.
Pray for your own heart, that you may remain charitable and loving in the face of disagreement. Pray for those with whom you disagree, that they may come to know the peace of Christ. And pray for the healing of divisions in society, so that all may work toward the common good. Prayer helps us keep our focus on Christ, the ultimate source of unity and peace.
5. Seek Common Ground
In the heat of political debate, it can be easy to focus on the differences rather than the shared values or goals. As Catholics, we believe that human dignity, justice, and the common good are essential to any healthy society. Whether or not we agree on the best path forward, there are always common goals that can bring people together.
Look for ways to build bridges rather than walls. Focus on the values that unite, rather than those that divide. When we emphasize what we share in common—such as a commitment to caring for the poor, advocating for peace, or protecting the dignity of every human life—we can engage in more constructive dialogue, grounded in charity and mutual respect.
6. Know When to Step Back
Not every conversation needs to be a political debate, and sometimes, the most charitable thing you can do is step away from a heated discussion. If the conversation is escalating into hostility or frustration, it might be time to gracefully excuse yourself. This is not an act of avoidance, but a deliberate choice to protect both your peace and your relationship with the other person.
Sometimes, silence is more loving than continuing a conversation that is only going to cause harm. Stepping back shows that you value the relationship over the need to be right, and it allows both parties time to cool down before continuing the discussion in a more charitable way.
7. Reflect on the Call to Love Our Neighbor
Ultimately, our faith calls us to love our neighbors—no matter their political affiliations, opinions, or backgrounds. Jesus commands us to love our enemies, pray for those who persecute us, and to be peacemakers in the world (Matthew 5:44). Political disagreements are not exceptions to this call.
When we engage with others, especially during contentious times like an election season, we are called to reflect the love of Christ. This love is not conditional on agreement or uniformity of thought, but is a self-giving love that seeks the good of the other person. Whether we are discussing policy, a candidate, or the direction of our country, charity should be our guide.
Conclusion: Charity Above All
Navigating election tension with charity isn’t always easy. It takes practice, patience, and a deep commitment to the love of Christ. However, by practicing active listening, responding with humility, avoiding personal attacks, praying for unity, seeking common ground, and knowing when to step back, we can engage in political discourse in a way that honors God and strengthens our relationships.
Election season may come with heightened emotions, but our response as Catholics should always be grounded in charity. In this way, we can contribute to healing divisions, promote understanding, and build a culture of peace that reflects Christ’s love to the world.
Let us keep our eyes on the ultimate goal—unity in Christ—where true peace and charity reside.