Democracy: Open Eyes & Act

We are called to create and live in and support communities of equity, full inclusion of all God’s Beloved Children, and shared power and decision-making.

Democratically elected leaders are key to this vision.

Rev. Cameron Trimble urges us to Pay Attention Before It’s Too Late (Piloting Faith; Substack, 09.08.26) and offers a quick read with language that helps us talk through the current instability of our democracy – and urges us to careful attention to what is real so we can wisely move into a better reality.

‘People often wait until something goes wrong before realizing that the warning signs were real… [B]eing careful means we should not wait until Election Day to pay attention. Call your representatives. Pay attention to the court cases. Learn how voting works in your state… Something valuable is at risk. That is why we need to pay attention.’

Her Reflection Questions would foster an important congregational and/or community discussion.

Her ‘Prayer for Keeping Watch’ is worthy of worship gatherings and prayer groups from now until and beyond Election Day. If shared prior to Election Day, it might also be helpful in an Election Vigil. We’ll have resources for an Election Vigil in coming soon!

Her Spiritual Practice, ‘Protect Something Before It Breaks’, is easily adaptable for all age groups and helps people of any age connect ‘prayer’ and ‘action’ while strengthening democracy before and after the mid-term elections.

Until then, it is time to:

And:

  • Cultivating Relationships with Local Election Officials (ELCA Advocacy, 09.10.26)
    • ‘Congregations and rostered ministers must ensure that activities related to the electoral process are transparent, nonpartisan and legal, yet even within these boundaries,
      there is much we can do. Cultivating relationships with local election officials can be an important support for the individuals, communities and generations impacted by the outcomes of U.S. elections.’

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We’re working with ISAIAH, Faith in US, and others to prepare resources for an Election Day Vigil: creating a safe space for people to gather throughout the day and particularly as results are publicized helps folx know the congregation is concerned about our shared communities and national responsibilities.