The Bishops of New York State will join hundreds of fellow Catholic New Yorkers at the annual Catholics at the Capitol public policy advocacy day March 13, at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany.

Due to a critical meeting of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Administrative Committee that he is chairing in Washington, D.C., that same day, Cardinal-designate Timothy Dolan will not be in Albany on March 13. However, he will join his brother bishops at the state Capitol the day before, March 12, meeting with Governor Andrew Cuomo at 11 a.m. and later with legislative leaders.

Cardinal-designate Dolan (who will be elevated to the College of Cardinals on February 18 in Rome) and the Bishops are expected to discuss with the Governor the various issues on the agenda for the advocacy day the next day, as well as other issues of mutual concern.

A media availability will be held following the Governor’s meeting at a time to be determined.

Issues for the day are as follows:
• Oppose the “Reproductive Health Act” which expands abortion and support the Maternity & Early Childhood Foundation
• Preserve Catholic schools and provide equity for all school children
•  Support emergency food programs, affordable housing and increased employment opportunities for low-income families and individuals
• Support programs that  assist incarcerated individuals to successfully return to the community
• Support English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, direct legal services and assistance to recent immigrants on the path toward citizenship

On March 13, participants from all eight dioceses of New York State will attend a workshop on the issues, meet with their legislators, participate in praying the Rosary with the Knights of Columbus and process to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception for 1:30 p.m. Mass with the Bishops.

There is no cost to attend and a boxed lunch will be provided. A goodwill offering will be taken at Mass to offset the costs of the day.

For more information and to register online, go to www.nyscatholic.org or call 518-434-6195.

The Catholic Conference represents New York State’s Bishops in matters of public policy.

Click here to view the 2012 Public Policy Centerfold (May take a few minutes)