“Christians are called to be stewards of our common life through serving as faithful and active citizens..We live out our mutual responsibility for one another by guaranteeing our neighbor’s right to vote and participate freely and fully in society.” — The Rev. Elizabeth Eaton, Presiding Bishop of the ELCA

For many of us, voting on Election Day is both a tradition and an important civic duty. Others this year may be voting for the first time or returning to the polls after a few years. As a public church committed to empowering every voice in our communities, civic participation through the ballot box is one way in which we can live out our faith.

As you prepare to vote in this election on Tuesday, Nov. 6, check out some of these helpful tips:

  • Know your ballot and where to vote: Research the candidates.  Pennsylvanians can click here to find their polling place and times, learn their rights, find a ride, call an election hotline and file a complaint.
  • Give a ride to the polls: Limited transportation means is often a major barrier to voting for many people in our pews. Consider offering a shuttle service at your congregation or local shelter to help get voters to the polls.
  • Share your experience: Mention your civic engagement experience on social media. Show that you voted by adding an ELCAvotes frame to your profile picture on platforms like Facebook, or share a story of why you went out to the polls using #ELCAvotes on Twitter.
  • Pray with your community: Join people of faith across the country and around the world by praying for our local, state and national governments.

Beyond Election Day, the decisions made at the national, state and local levels will have significant impacts on policies that affect hunger, poverty and more. Together, as people of faith and as engaged citizens, we will continue to steward our common life by serving God through loving our neighbor.

 

 

 

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