(The following statement was issued by the Archdiocesan Office of Urban Affairs)

The primary election for the Congress of the U.S., governor and many state offices is to be held on September 9, 1970. A two party primary is a very recent development in Georgia and a gratifying one.

The determining of good men for the task of guiding and governing is a most serious responsibility. To quote from Vatican II on The Laity - “In fulfilling this mission of the Church, the laity, therefore exercise their apostolate both in the Church and in the world, in both the spiritual and the temporal orders. These realms, although distinct, are so connected in one plan of God that He, Himself intends in Christ to appropriate the whole universe into a new creation, initially here on earth, fully on the last day. In both orders, the layman, being simultaneously a believer and a citizen should be constantly led by the same Christian conscience.”

Because of tremendous changes technologically, new political developments, and what appears to be the undermining values held dear, our times have witnessed great excessives in fear and anxiety. We are retreating to a denial of freedom and recognition of the unique dignity of every man.

We have observed throughout the various campaigns and by statements of elected officials a seeming insensitivity and disregard of certain groups of people because of their color, age or economic condition. Disrespect and evasion of the law and in some instances outright disobedience has been encouraged by some. They call forth man’s irrational passions of fear, hate, and revenge and deny the ideals or spiritual realities for which we must continuously strive.

“Moreover, although rightful differences exist between men, the equal dignity of persons demands that a more humane and just condition of life be brought about. For excessive economic and social differences between the members of the one human family or population groups cause scandal and militate against social justice, equity, the dignity of the human person, as well as social and international peace.”

“A man more precious for what he is than what he has.”

Therefore on September 9, 1970 we urge you to cast your conscientious and informed vote.

Your conscience should be formed by the teachings of the Church on Social Justice, Judeo-Christian values of concern for all men and on the one law that is truly binding - that we love one another.

Information on all candidates and election procedure is available through newspapers and nonpartisan groups such as the League of Women Voters.