While the bishops debate a statement on U.S. political life, including an expected forceful denunciation of politicians-Catholic and otherwise-who support abortion rights, another statement on the country’s economic turmoil sailed through.

The statement, issued in the name of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops President Cardinal Francis George of Chicago, is titled “Solidarity at a Time of Economic Crisis.”

“As pastors and bishops,we see the many human and moral consequence of this crisis,” the statement says. “Across our nation families are losing their homes; retirement savings are threatened; workers are losing their jobs and health care; and many are losing a sense of hope and security.

“This disturbing and complicated situation brings home a universal truth: we are all children of God: We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. We are all in this together. Hard times can isolate us or they can bring us together. The Catholic community will continue to reach out to those in need, stand with those who are hurt, and work for the policies that bring greater compassion, accountability and justice to economic life.”