Call to Political Responsibility Answered Through Participation in Catholic Days at the Capitol

On February 2-3, faithful citizens from across Florida connected online to participate in a virtual Catholic Days at the Capitol. Michael Sheedy, FCCB executive director, called the proceedings to order, which included a briefing on key legislative proposals, an interactive Q and A, diocesan breakout sessions, and the presentation of the  Defensor Vitae award to Rep. Erin Grall. There were also opportunities to join in prayer, including a rosary led by the bishops of Florida and the Red Mass of the Holy Spirit.

As participants prepared for virtual meetings with their legislators, they were briefed on several policy priorities on which they will seek the support of their lawmakers:

• Improved regulation of abortion laws (bill not yet filed) and prohibiting abortion after 20 weeks gestation - SB 744 (Rodriguez, A.) / HB 351 (Gregory)
• Repeal of the death penalty - SB 568 (Farmer) / HB 6019 (Geller)
• Conscience protections for health care providers - Medical Ethics and Diversity (MED) Act (bill not yet filed)
• Expanded access to state scholarship programs for students currently in private schools and increased parental empowerment by converting state scholarship programs to educational savings accounts - SB 48 (Diaz)

Backgrounders with more information on each of the issues, as well as the legislative briefing and Q & A session, are available to view on the  FCCB website.


As Catholic Days at the Capitol participants meet with legislators, you can add your voice by sending an email to your elected officials. By asking your state lawmakers to support our Catholic Days priority issues, you amplify the efforts of Catholic Days participants and help advance legislation that promotes human life and dignity.

Take action and help advocate for Catholic Days priorities.

Diocese of Venice participants meet with Senator Jim Boyd (top right) over Zoom.