Bishop Farr Encourages Voting

News October 12, 2020

Voting matters. It matters to the health of our American political system and to the people who participate in it. The Social Principles of The United Methodist Church affirm that we “hold governments responsible for the protection of the rights of the people to free and fair elections” while also reminding United Methodists of their political responsibility. “The church should continually exert a strong ethical influence upon the state, supporting policies and programs deemed to be just and opposing policies and programs that are unjust” (Book of Discipline 2016, ¶164).

Susan and I chose to vote in-person at our county election office this week. Many Missourians have already

voted by mail or in-person with thousands more planning to do so in-person on Election Day on November 3. We encourage you to explore the voting options available to you by visiting your county election page or the Missouri Secretary of State’s website.

I urge United Methodists across Missouri to serve as examples in our communities — rural and urban, large and small. Exercise your right to vote. Assist with voter registration for all eligible persons. Use your influence to ensure polling locations are adequate to handle the number of voters expected on Election Day. Thank you to our Missouri churches who will serve as polling places and to those of you who plan to volunteer as election workers and observers.

United Methodists in Missouri are politically diverse. Regardless of which party you favor, I urge you to pray for our country. “Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live” (1 Timothy 2: 1-2, MSG).
Earlier this month, I invited all United Methodists in Missouri to join me in praying daily in the 30 days leading up to the General Election. Pray for our communities, our states, our nation and leaders at all levels that God would grant them wisdom and just hearts to govern in ways that seek the welfare of all the people.

In Christ+

Bishop Bob Farr