Catholics should focus on the importance of issues when voting, the Rev. Jerry Rogers said in the St. Philips Church in Bemidji church bulletin.

"As we judge the candidates, may I suggest some criteria to use in making your choice: Am I voting for personal or material advantage or for the common good of all?" Rogers said, thebulleting reported. "To what extent does the Gospel and the witness of Jesus guide me in making my decision? Am I aware of the teachings of the Church, especially in light of the currently discussed moral issues of justice, the economy, abortion, health reform, medical ethics, poverty and hunger? Do I seek God's guidance through critical reflection and prayer?"

Rogers said that every four years he experiences a feeling of saturation, as he has heard, seen, thought and read enough regarding politics and candidates, as well as campaigns and issues. He said many people will gladly share their thoughts with you and tell you how to vote, but that parishioners need to be careful with listening to what is out there.

"The Lord created you with a mind and soul of your own," Rogers said in the bulletin. "Don't be swayed by those who claim to have it all figured out. Good Catholics are responsible citizens!"

Rogers said that the Catholic Church's teachings on social justice are the church's best-kept secret.

"It reminds us that the test of any election is how our choices touch the weak and vulnerable," Rogers wrote. 

He said that Christians must stand for Biblical values like being respectful of human life.

"The challenge before us is the building of a just society that has a reverence for life," Rogers said in the bulletin. "Without a doubt, life is threatened in our day in multiple and complex ways, ranging from abortion to global warfare, including issues of malnutrition, health reform, environmental abuse, capital punishment, euthanasia, increased violence in our streets, torture and murder in the third world, etc."

Rogers said for parishioners to ask themselves if they're voting for personal or material advantage or are they voting for the common good for everyone.