Catholic Bishops of Alberta issue pastoral letter on Alberta referendum

Catholic bishops in Alberta issued a pastoral letter on October 1, 2026, to help the faithful prepare for the upcoming referendum on October 19. The bishops invited Catholics to approach the vote with prayer and an informed conscience, emphasizing the importance of treating neighbors with respect regardless of differing views.

The bishops stated that the Church remains independent of political parties while addressing moral questions in public life. They noted that the lay faithful have a responsibility to apply Christian wisdom to civic matters, citing Gaudium et Spes. The letter urged voters to consider how the referendum proposals might affect children, the sick, people living in poverty, and those who are isolated.

In the letter, the bishops encouraged Catholics not to let disagreements over the referendum lead to demeaning others or questioning their faith. They reminded the community that their responsibilities to one another will continue regardless of the election results.