The Montana Catholic Conference has organized “Catholic Day at the Legislature 2009,” set for Thursday, Feb. 5.

Organizers said that the goals of the day are to raise awareness among the legislators of Montana Catholics’ presence and involvement, as well as emphasize the economic impact of Catholic institutions such as the hospitals and schools on the state’s economy. The day presents an opportunity to let the Catholic voice be heard, to carry the Catholic message to the legislature and help shape public policy in the state.

The day will begin with a prayer service at the Cathedral of St. Helena at 10 a.m. An orientation on the day’s events will follow the prayer service, along with an update on the status of the bills the Catholic Conference is following or lobbying on.

Weather permitting, particpants will march from the Cathedral to the Capitol. Sack lunches will be available in the Rotunda from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. for legislators and participants.

Displays from Montana’s Catholic schools, college and university, hospitals and other Catholic organizations will be set up in the Rotunda prior to the prayer service.

Following lunch, participants will be able to visit the displays, meet with Lt. Gov. John Bohlinger, tour the Capitol, visit the House and Senate galleries where they will be introduced, and attend committee meetings.

For more information, contact Moe Wosepka at director@montanacc.org or Suzanne Johnson at mccadmin@bresnan.net or call 406-442-5761.


Published in The Montana Catholic, Vol. 25, No. 1, January 23, 2009.