The announcement on 22nd May of a General Election on 4th July probably came as something of a surprise, the received wisdom having anticipated an Autumn election as the most likely.
Campaigning has begun in earnest. As time goes by, we may become less than enthusiastic about the continuous stream of policy initiatives, debates, and arguments by the various parties. However, the election presents a “once every five years” opportunity to influence the nation’s political priorities.
The Church, declining membership notwithstanding, still has a powerful voice on issues it regards as fundamental for a just society. How we make that voice heard for maximum effect is the issue.
In an increasingly divided society, views and opinions may easily become polarised. In such situations, the reputation of a charity or church must be maintained. The way we engage with political candidates and parties whose views and policies may differ significantly from a Christian perspective is important for the maintenance of the churches’ reputation.
On 20th May the Charity Commission published a reminder to charities of their responsibilities in respect of political activity and campaigning. The guidance centred on several aspects.
The commission has also produced a short “five-minute guide to political activity (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/political-activity-and-campaigning-by-charities) ” which expands the guidance further. The guide focuses on four main aspects.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/campaigning-and-political-activity-general-election-lessons-learned
The response to the calling of the election has been swift, balancing a prayerful hope for tolerance, and consideration for others with practical advice for those churches likely to be venues for political hustings.
On 23rd May the President and Vice President of the Methodist Conference issued a joint statement hoping that the election campaign will be one where people will feel able to discuss and disagree in a spirit of kindness and understanding. That the needs of the vulnerable in society will be heard by those with the power to bring about change and end the scourge of poverty.
https://www.methodist.org.uk/about/news/methodist-leaders-issue-election-call-to-love-pray-and-vote/
The Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT) is a partnership between the Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church. Its purpose is to help the Churches work together for peace and justice through listening, learning, praying, speaking and acting on public policy issues.
The JPIT has published some helpful practical guidelines and resources for those involved in aspects of the election process with the banner headline “LOVE, PRAY and VOTE
These guidelines and resources cover subjects such as:
The Archbishops of Canterbury and York have stated that the General Election provides an opportunity for voters to consider the sort of country they wish to live in and the questions which need to be asked with that in mind. They also hope that the campaign will be conducted in a spirit of integrity and grace. Its importance may be summarised in this quote from their recent statement.
“The coming General Election is a critical moment in the life of our nation, which will shape our future by electing those who will make decisions affecting generations to come.”
The Church of England has launched a campaign ‘Pray Your Part’ which aims to promote prayer and participation of voters in national as well as local community life.
In the final three weeks, prior to polling day, a series of biblically based reflections will be available free through social media, email and in booklet form.
https://www.chpublishing.co.uk/features/pray-your-part
https://www.churchofengland.org/about/topics/pray-your-part-general-election-2024
https://www.stalbansdiocese.org/about-us/general-election-resources/
FIEC has produced a podcast entitled ‘Pastoring through a General Election’. This discusses how church leaders can support and pastor their churches through the election process. Among other issues the podcast explores whether polls can be trusted to present a true picture, should church members focus on ethical issues and whether to vote specifically for a Christian candidate if one is standing in your constituency.
https://fiec.org.uk/resources/pastoring-through-a-general-election
Catholic organisations have produced a series of resources to help parishes, groups and individuals preparing for the general election. These aim to encourage engagement in the election process, emphasising those issues of importance to churches but without supporting one political party to the exclusion of others
https://www.cbcew.org.uk/election24/
The general election is an opportunity for church members to influence political priorities for the next parliament. Engagement with the process is important, as is ensuring all who are eligible are registered to vote. Consideration and tolerance are essential in discussions with those with views that may be contrary to ours.
Throughout the next few weeks, prayer is vital. For candidates, for the electoral process and above all that the concerns of God’s people are heard and acted upon.
So finally, a prayer from the Methodist Church announcement of a General Election
Loving God, now that an election has been called, hear my prayers for our country and the campaign ahead.
I pray for those who are standing for election, for their safety, and for their willingness to listen and to speak.
I pray for truthfulness and kindness to prevail as the issues are debated.
I pray that each of us will be inspired to use our voice and our vote for your goodness and glory. Inspire me, God, to Love, to Pray and to Vote.
Amen.
God bless,
Robert Scott-Biggs
ACAT Trainer
