10.23.24 | Advocacy and Action, Legislative Advocacy
The Church's Witness During the Election Season
Are any United Methodist churches in the Area serving as polling places?
Yes, there are several churches serving as polling places in the Baltimore-Washington and Peninsula-Delaware Area. Many others intend to offer prayer services on Election Day.
What does The United Methodist Church say about civil obedience and civil disobedience?
The United Methodist Social Principles state: “...we recognize the right of individuals to dissent when acting under the constraint of conscience and, after having exhausted all legal recourse, to resist or disobey laws that they deem to be unjust or that are discriminately enforced. Even then, respect for the law should be shown by refraining from violence and by being willing to accept the cost of disobedience. We do not encourage or condone any form of violent protest as a legitimate exercise of free speech or civil disobedience.” Under these guidelines, peaceful protests are allowed.
What about the separation of church and state? Can churches speak about the election?
Local church leaders need to be aware of the principles surrounding the separation of church and state. As religious organizations, churches are tax-exempt and cannot endorse candidates in the electoral process without losing their tax-exempt status. However, they can be voices for justice and shalom. In a non-partisan manner, United Methodists can speak out for and support issues that are important to them and their communities.
Preparedness and Planning
What is the Church’s role in Civil Unrest Preparedness?
The church has a unique ministry during and after a disaster, which includes civil unrest of any kind. Acts of civil unrest can provide some of the greatest opportunities to serve as agents of peace and light addressing the needs of the community. The church's involvement or lack of involvement speaks volumes and leaves a lasting imprint upon the lives of those directly affected by civil unrest. The religious community is represented in every county of our nation. We can connect people in need with people who care.
What is our theological framework for a faithful response should there be civil unrest?
Matthew 28, the first and second commandments, continues to guide our work along with the General Rules of the Church: “Do no harm. Do all the good that you can and attend unto the ordinances of God.”
Those affected by civil unrest may ask many difficult questions, some of which may have no appropriate answer. Some may ask, "Why did this occur and how can we preserve life and property, understanding that life is most important?”
As you minister remember that:
- We seek relationship because this is how Jesus lived
- We respect different forms of expression, understanding that we may not really know what is going on
- We will examine our own assumptions precepts so that we might avoid projecting our cultural values onto others
- We will assume positive intent as we are all moving onto perfection
- We will listen for understanding because agreement is optional
- We will exercise cultural humility, understanding that the world in which we were born is just one model of reality
What should we do if there is civil unrest post-election?
Please remain as calm and as orderly as possible. We must not allow ourselves to be a part of the unrest. However, we must be ambassadors of peace and goodwill. With proper planning and discernment, your church could decide to be a safe haven as permitted and safe to do so.
What should we do if violence or some other sort of crisis unfolds in our church's community after the election?
Please be prepared. See Civil Unrest Preparedness Checklist for more information. Remember:
- Privilege human life and safety over other concerns
- Follow your church's disaster preparedness plan
- Stay informed with reliable information
- If you are expecting any instances of unrest in your community make sure important church documents and digital files are stored off-site, preferably in a safe-deposit box
- If you have any concerns or worries about violence, share them with the local police
- Heed any instructions or advice given by law enforcement officials
- Members of your church should not take security into their own hands
- If a crisis does erupt, sheltering in place is usually advised. If your church is serving as a community center, follow the established best practices for disaster relief and response
Isn’t thinking about disaster preparedness an overreaction?
No. Many informed commentators have suggested that the season between Election Day and the presidential inauguration may be a time of unrest. Whether this occurs or not, it is in the best interest of churches to prepare and be ready to meet any challenges that may arise. Many of the conversations and preparations involved in getting churches ready can serve churches well in meeting other natural disasters or crises that may lie ahead.
Where can we find accurate information if a crisis occurs?
One of the most crucial resources in times of crisis is information. If they haven’t already, local church leaders should sign up to get alerts from newspapers, radio stations, or TV stations they trust. In addition, most phones are already connected to WEAs, or Wireless Emergency Alerts, which announce storms, Amber Alerts, and other emergency information. Learn more about WEA.
Liability and Legal Questions
How do we prepare for violence in the church?
Brotherhood Mutual advises: "First, form a team to assess the risks. Second, create a plan that establishes guidelines on how to respond to each risk." Learn more.
Should our church have armed security guards?
Every church must make its own determination whether circumstances exist that warrant an armed security team. Learn More from Brotherhood Mutual. The Baltimore-Washington and Peninsula-Delaware Area does not condone the presence of firearms in churches
How should we respond to a demonstration at our ministry location?
If the demonstration is one that is aligned with your church's vision, mission and values, build relationships with the organizers and collaborate. If not, contact local law enforcement for assistance.
What happens if a pastor or other church leader is arrested?
Each person should make arrangements and have contingency plans for a variety of eventualities if they participate in protests. Those who do protest should have a person who is “on the sidelines” to handle all arrangements for bail and other concerns that may arise. This person should have detailed and pertinent information about those participating in the protest. Each protestor is responsible for making their own arrangements. Pastors who are arrested should make sure their district superintendent is notified.
