What does United Methodist leadership say about the 2020 elections and the church’s witness?

United Methodist bishops based in the United States, including Bishop LaTrelle Easterling, call on the people of The United Methodist Church to vote in the Nov. 3 election and to protect free and fair elections and a peaceful transfer of power. They remind us,  "We are in a moment of national crisis as we navigate two viruses, COVID and Racism, and suffer the economic consequences of both. In these crises we are reminded that our religious faith and our nation's principles support elections that faithfully reflect the will of the American people. Our faith in God who created all people in the divine image, and our hope that our nation can live into the aspirations of our founding ideals, lead us to pledge ourselves to the fullest expansion of this right to vote." Read the full A Crisis in Faith and Democracy statement.

The Church's Witness | Preparedness & Planning  | Liability & Legal Questions

The Church's Witness

Are any United Methodist churches in the BWC serving as polling places?

Yes, there are several churches serving as polling places in the BWC. 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 in Para.164.F: “...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 costs 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 (this is almost true of The United Methodist Church as well). We can connect people in need with people who care. It is also important to understand that the local church or congregation is the primary contact for all religious community assistance in unrest. 

What is our theological framework for a faithful response should there be civil unrest?

Matthew 28, the first and second commandment, 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 percepts 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.

Why Should we plan for unrest?

Early planning is important for necessary strategic planning and implementation to have multiple options for us to successfully remain vigilant and safe should unrest occur as local authorities handle the situations within our communities.

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 Preparation 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.

Church leaders may also want to set up a text-messaging network. Here's how (go to item 7 once you open this link).

Are we allowed to open our church space to the community in this season of the coronavirus? 

Abiding by all the established protocols for health and safety during the on-going pandemic is essential. Mask-wearing and social distancing must be maintained, as should all the other guidelines recommended by the Conference in their re-entering well protocol and by the Centers for Disease Control. We celebrate the fact that, throughout the pandemic, churches have found ways to be in ministry with their communities while maintaining appropriate protocols.

 

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

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. >Learn more from Brotherhood Mutual

How should we respond to individuals who disrupt a ministry service or event?

Train your ministry volunteers to persuade disruptive individuals to leave the sanctuary or event without using force. See Brotherhood Mutual's guidelines entitled, Dealing with Disruptive Individuals t

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. 

WHICH insurance should be used if a pastor or other church leader is injured as a result of civic unrest?

It depends. Please learn more on our Medical Insurance FAQs page.

 
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