SAINTS MICHAEL, GABRIEL, AND RAPHAEL, ARCHANGELS

-From Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility

(17) A Well-Formed Conscience
Conscience is the voice of God resounding in the human heart, revealing the truth to us and calling us to do what is good while shunning what is evil. Conscience always requires serious attempts to make sound moral judgements based on the truths of our faith.
(18) The formation of conscience includes several elements. First, there is a desire to embrace goodness and truth. For Catholics, this begins with a willingness and openness to seek the truth and what is right by studying Sacred Scripture and the teaching of the Church as contained in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It is also important to examine the facts and background information about various choices. Finally, prayerful reflection is essential to discern the will of God. Catholics must also understand that if they fail to form their consciences in the light of the truths of our faith and the moral teachings of the Church they can make erroneous judgments.

Father Bill +