Preparing for the Welsh Elections: Some reflections
As the Welsh elections approach (May 7th), many of us are taking time to reflect on how our vote can express our faith in public life. These reflections are not party‑political and do not endorse any candidate or party. Instead, they offer gentle prompts to help our discernment, rooted in Christian discipleship and in the values of our Diocese of Monmouth Culture Guide: love, generosity, joy, humility, courage, and integrity.
Voting is one way we seek the common good. It invites us to look beyond ourselves, to consider our neighbours, and to imagine a Wales shaped by compassion, fairness, and hope.
The following short reflections offer some thoughts for you to consider on themes that matter deeply to our communities: poverty, peace, social responsibility, health and education, and the dignity and rights of all people. Importantly, our decision making should always include prayer and so prayers are included for each section which you may wish to use.
Prayer
God of wisdom, guide our hearts as we prepare to vote. Fill us with love, humility, and courage, that our choices may reflect your hope for the world. Amen.
Poverty and Economics
Choosing a Wales Where Everyone Can Flourish
Poverty is not an abstract issue - it affects families, children, and whole communities. As Christians, we are called to respond with love, to act with integrity, and to imagine an economy shaped by generosity rather than scarcity.
As we consider economic policies, we might ask:
- Does this help lift people out of poverty?
- Does it protect those who are most vulnerable?
- Does it encourage fairness, dignity, and opportunity?
- Does it reflect a commitment to the flourishing of all, not just the fortunate?
Our Culture Guide reminds us that love is active, generous, and attentive to those who struggle.
Prayer:
Peace
Seeking the Things That Make for Peace
Peace grows where humility, courage, and integrity meet. It is more than the absence of conflict — it is the presence of justice, reconciliation, and mutual respect.
As we reflect on our vote, we might consider:
- How do these policies help build peace in our communities?
- Do they reduce division and encourage understanding?
- Do they support restorative approaches to conflict?
- Do they help create a Wales where people feel safe, valued, and heard?
Our Culture Guide calls us to be people who choose peace with courage and humility.
Prayer:
Social Responsibility & the Environment
Caring for God’s Creation and One Another
Caring for creation is an act of love and integrity. It is also a source of deep joy, reminding us that the world is a gift entrusted to us.
As we consider environmental and social policies, we might ask:
- Does this honour our responsibility to one another and to creation?
- Does it protect those most affected by climate change?
- Does it encourage sustainable, generous living?
- Does it reflect long‑term thinking rooted in integrity and hope?
Our Culture Guide invites us to live generously, caring for the earth and for one another with joy and purpose.
Prayer:
Health and Education
Supporting the Wellbeing and Growth of Every Person
Health and education shape the wellbeing of individuals and communities. When we vote, we are invited to consider how our choices reflect love, generosity, and humility.
We might ask:
- Does this strengthen the NHS and support those who care for others?
- Does it ensure access to good education for all?
- Does it promote mental health, inclusion, and dignity?
- Does it help create a society where everyone can grow, learn, and live well?
Our Culture Guide calls us to honour those who serve and teach, and to act with integrity in seeking the wellbeing of all.
Prayer:
Immigration and Rights for All
Honouring the Dignity of Every Human Being
Scripture calls us to welcome the stranger with love, to act with courage, and to uphold the dignity of every person with integrity.
As we consider policies on immigration, asylum, and human rights, we might ask:
- Does this uphold the dignity of every person?
- Does it protect those seeking safety?
- Does it promote fairness, compassion, and inclusion?
- Does it reflect our values of love, generosity, and courage?
A society shaped by Christian values is one where every person - without exception - is treated with honour.
Prayer:
