In the Catholic social vision, the human person is central, the clearest reflection of God among us. From the point of conception to the point of natural death, all human beings are sacred, deserving of respect and worthy of government protection.

The Catholic Church has long promoted respect for religious liberty, a core value that helps to shape international, national and state policy. The Church supports the fundamental right of individuals and institutions to conduct their activities publicly and privately according to their religious or moral beliefs. These rights are increasingly endangered by intrusive legislation and regulation, and are inadequately protected under current law. The Church strongly affirms the principle of religious freedom in the provision of all publicly funded services.