Questions?

Contact Pat Schaffer, schaffer@catholicdemocrats.org

Planning nationwide "Catholic Values" house parties

Last presidential debate on Wed., Oct 15, 2008

Purpose: These debate house parties across the country are intended to provide Catholic Democrats the opportunity to gather in small groups of 4 to 10, and share a bit of their faith and their political hopes in the context of the final presidential debate. Ideally it might help deepen relationships, strengthen commitments, and increase interest in Catholic Democrats as an organization.

Organizer: Invites fellow Catholic Democrats to their home, and leads the sharing and conversation, which we recommend to begin one hour before the debate.

Possible Opening Prayer Outline:

• Welcome people who have come to share in the evening
• Light simple candle
• Read a scripture passage: (suggestion: Acts 4:32, about the disciples sharing everything in common)
• Brief silence

Closing prayer: Loving God, be with us in this gathering tonight, that we might grow in our understanding of one another, and discover anew our commitment to our brothers and sisters in need. In Jesus’ name we pray… Amen.

First part: Sharing of stories from our past

Could you take a moment to consider important experiences in your past, small or large, when you felt you put your faith into action in society – perhaps in service to others, or to raise a voice of concern, or when you became involved politically?

Share an experience that came to mind, and what was important about it for you. How do you feel your faith was strengthened? Your commitment to service and justice?

Note: facilitate letting everyone have a chance to share.

Second part: Sharing hopes and aspirations for this election

Could you take a moment to consider what are the most important issues you feel are facing the country right now? How does your understanding of your faith shed light on the importance of these issue(s)? What are your hopes for how the next President might address these issues?

Note: facilitator sees that all have a chance to share before suggesting closure.

Closing prayer: (take a moment for quiet)
Loving God, we thank you for the stories shared among us this evening, for the ways you inspire and guide us, and for the hopes we have for a better country and world. May you guide us in this time of a presidential election, and help us continue to support and strengthen one another. In Jesus’ name we pray…Amen.

Watch the debate, and may the discussion really begin!