Catholics from across the state of Texas gathered in Austin for Catholic Advocacy Day on April 1 to meet with legislators and advocate for policies in line with social and moral concerns of the Church. A small group from the Diocese of Tyler attended this one-day event hosted by the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishop (TCCB).
For Catholic Advocacy Day, the TCCB determines which bills are a priority for the bishops of Texas. This year, the priorities included education, life and family life issues, restorative justice, immigration, religious liberty and various social concerns, always prioritize the poor and vulnerable.
A highlight of Catholic Advocacy Day is the rally on the south steps of the Texas Capitol when Catholics from dioceses all over the state gathers with the Texas bishops to express their support for Catholic policies in accord with Church teachings.
Addressing those present, TCCB Executive Director Jennifer Allmon said, “As Catholics, we support life, family, immigrants, the poor, religious freedom, restorative justice, access to health care, education for all, and caring for God’s Creation. Today you are joining me in this necessary and critical role as advocates. Thank you for standing with your bishops and encouraging legislators in supporting our agendas.”
Standing with Senator Lois Kolkhorst at the TCCB rally, Bishop Greg Kelly spoke about family life and the continued need to support families in Texas
“The Catholic Church in the state of Texas has done so much to support families in need over the years. Thanks to Senator Kolkhorst and Senate Bill 1388 which makes further improvements to the Thriving Texas Families program, which helps so many of our pro-file pregnancy centers and Catholic Charities proved case management services as we walk with moms in need,” Bishop Kelly said.
In addition to the Advocacy Day rally, participants from the Diocese of Tyler met with legislators in and from the diocese to discuss issues important to Catholics. Participants discussed issues related to education such as House Bill 2, which will increase funding and support for public school teachers and students, and House Bill 3347 which closes loopholes that exclude non-certified school employees from the “Do Not Hire Registry”, making schools safer for all children.
Additional issues included the “Life of the Mother Act”, which clarifies language around medical care for pregnant women, and “Yes, In God’s Backyard,” which proposes an approach to affordable housing.
About Advocacy Day
Catholic Advocacy Day is organized by the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishop every two years. Advocacy Day provides an opportunity for the faithful from across the state to advocate for legislation aligned with Catholic moral and social teachings. It is a day dedicated to promoting Catholic causes at the legislative level. For more information visit, www.txcatholic.org.
Pictures from Catholic Advocacy Day 2025 can be found here.
