From parishes and organizations, Catholics made their annual trip to the Capitol to advocate on behalf of vulnerable people.  This year their efforts were more critical than ever, as the state is having its worst financial crisis in thirty years.  All social services are being scrutinized, some will be eliminated, and most will be cut in order to meet a forecasted over $8 billion deficit looming for the 2009-2011 biennial budget. 

Advocates met with legislators, asking them to put the needs of poor people first and not eliminate the safety net for the most vulnerable people in the state.  

The theme of the day was "Justice and Charity: Seeking the Common Good"; it began with prayer offered by Bishop Tyson.  Representative Kelli Linville, Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, spoke briefly on the realities of the budget deficit facing the state.  Dr. Wolfgang Opitz, Assistant State Treasurer, presented the “nuts and bolts” of how the budget process works and the constraints the deficit places on the state.  The day concluded with participants visiting their Representatives and Senators, advocating on behalf of specific issues dealing with the budget, housing, healthcare and the environment.