Clergy and laity from around Illinois will be traveling to Springfield this Wednesday, March 3, for the Second Annual Catholics at the Capitol.

Sponsored by the Catholic Conference of Illinois (CCI), it will begin with a Mass celebrated by the bishops of Illinois at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 E. Lawrence Ave. Following the liturgy, participants will hear a presentation about “Advocacy at the Capitol” given by the CCI staff.

“I join all bishops of Illinois in urging as many Catholics as possible to participate,” said Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, noting that last year’s event brought together nearly 5,000 Catholics from throughout the state. In a letter inviting each pastor in the diocese to participate or send a representative, Bishop Jenky said Illinois is facing several serious challenges in 2010. Issues of particular interest to Catholics include funding support for Catholic schools, services for the most vulnerable in the state, conscience rights, preserving programs for immigrants, and protecting traditional marriage.

Individuals who have made appointments will be free to meet with their legislators at the Capitol building starting at noon.

The Catholic Post would like to catch up with parishioners from the Diocese of Peoria who have made appointments with their state representatives or senators. If you would be willing to be interviewed and photographed at the State Capitol, please contact Jennifer Willems by phone at (309) 671-1550, ext. 287, or by e-mail at jwillems@cdop.org.