06/11/2026
Dear Friends in Christ,
As our nation marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, churches across Illinois have an opportunity to reflect on our history and our calling in this moment. As people of faith, we give thanks for the freedoms we enjoy while recommitting ourselves to the work of building a society that more fully reflects the dignity and worth of every person created in the image of God.
Throughout Scripture, God calls us to seek the welfare of our communities, to pursue justice, and to care for the vulnerable. One way Christians live out this calling is through faithful civic engagement. While we may differ on policies and political affiliations, we share a commitment to ensuring that all eligible members of our communities can participate freely, safely, and without intimidation in our democratic processes.
As congregations prepare for the months ahead, we encourage churches to consider how they might commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary through prayer, education, community dialogue, and civic engagement. Such efforts can help strengthen our common life and witness to the values of dignity, participation, and the common good.
We have watched with alarm as threats begin to coalesce around the voting process - whether that be the systemic disenfranchisement of Black voters, the challenging of lawful results, or intimidation of election workers. We encourage leaders to familiarize themselves with resources that support voter participation and election integrity. These include:
• Sojourners and Faiths United to Save Democracy's Poll Chaplain and Peacekeeper Training, which prepares faith leaders to serve as a calming, nonpartisan presence at polling locations and to support voters in exercising their rights. The training includes updates on election law and de-escalation techniques.
• Interfaith America's Faith in Elections Playbook, which offers practical guidance for faith communities seeking constructive, nonpartisan engagement in election-related activities, including voter support, community education, relationship-building with election officials, and reducing polarization.
The Illinois Conference of Churches remains committed to fostering civic engagement that is grounded in faith, seeing it as one of the most important legacies we can cultivate on this 250th anniversary. We invite congregations to pray for our nation and seek opportunities to be agents of hope, reconciliation, and justice.
May God grant us wisdom, courage, and humility as we continue the work of loving our neighbors and seeking the common good.
Grace and peace,
Illinois Conference of Churches
