Michigan Catholics are committing to join the "Civilize It” campaign pledge initiated by U.S. Catholic bishops. 

The pledge consists of three main components: civility, clarity and compassion.

The pledge urges Catholics to treat others with respect and rise above attacks. It seeks to have those taking the pledge to root political viewpoints in the Gospel and stand up for convictions. It involves honoring the dignity of others and striving to understand before trying to be understood.

The election season has become increasingly contentious, with political viewpoints being marked by unkind words, distrust and bitter divisions, a release issued on the Michigan Catholic Conference said.That is what led the U.S. Catholic bishops to announce the campaign last November.

With presidential debates on the horizon and hotly contested races for control of the House and Senate lined up, a little civility would be a breath of fresh air.

Visit www.CivilizeIt.org for more information or to sign the pledge.