Choices
As we approach the beginning of early voting in Indiana on October 8 and election campaigns enter the homestretch, I’m finding myself in more conversations with people who feel a heightened anxiety about what could happen on and after Election Day. Based on what I’m reading, these conversations are consistent with a growing anxiety in the nation. What is the Christian response to this anxiety and the election itself?
Over the next few weeks, I will reflect on this and other questions we’re wrestling with in our society. I do so fully aware of the sensitivity of the task. I may frustrate those who prefer I remain silent and disappoint those who want me to write more forcefully. Before I dive in next week, let’s start with establishing clarity around what I can and cannot say and do as the leader of a church which has a 501(c)(3) tax status.
Generally speaking, churches are restricted to voter education and encouragement of civic participation. Churches cannot tell people how to vote or for whom to vote. Here is a partial list of what can and cannot be done (for a more complete list read the fact sheet prepared by Bolder Advocacy, a program of the Alliance for Justice).
Churches can:
Advocate for the organization’s issues during an election year
Criticize sitting elected officials
Conduct nonpartisan public education and training sessions as well as get out the vote and voter registration drives
Distribute communications “that do not expressly advocate for the election or defeat of the candidate, but refer to a candidate”
Churches cannot:
Endorse candidates
Make campaign contributions
Increase the volume or amount of criticism of sitting officials who are also candidates
Publish or communicate anything that explicitly or implicitly favors or opposes a candidate
Make a positive or critical reference to someone in their status as a candidate
Given these parameters, my focus will primarily be on how we respond as Christians to the important choices before us this election. How does our Christian faith influence our vote? How might scripture be a resource as we evaluate candidates and their policies? How do my values as a Christian inform my vote? Whatever happens in November and beyond, how can I be a person who bears the peace, grace, love and justice of Christ into the world?
As I prepare to offer my reflections, I have two favors to ask of you. First, please let me hear from you. Being a priest does not give me special wisdom. Your wisdom and insight will strengthen me. Second, please pray for me as I will pray for you. We need to be a community for each other as we seek to be the peace of Christ for the world.
