Keep God’s creation in mind when voting this November
By Dr. Andrew Hartley, UNY Creation Justice Team Chair | Email
As voters prepare for the general midterm elections in November, it is an opportunity to reflect on how our civic participation connects with our faith and our call to care for God’s creation.
The United Methodist Church’s Social Principles affirm our responsibility to protect the natural world and work toward a more just and sustainable future. As people of faith, we recognize that caring for creation involves both individual choices and the collective decisions that shape our communities. Public policies influence energy production, transportation, clean air and water, the protection of natural resources, and the well-being of future generations.
Everyday practices such as conserving energy, reducing waste, and making thoughtful transportation choices are important expressions of creation care. We can also participate in shaping the policies that affect our shared environment by learning about the issues, engaging with elected officials, advocating for responsible stewardship, and participating in elections.
We recognize that political conversations can be difficult, particularly when people hold differing views. As United Methodists, we are called to engage in these conversations with humility, grace, and respect. We can speak faithfully about the importance of protecting creation without attacking those who disagree with us. Our witness is strengthened when we listen to one another, seek common ground, and remain committed to the well-being of our neighbors.
As the Creation Justice Team, we encourage United Methodists to prayerfully consider how they can participate in the electoral process as an expression of their faith and commitment to creation care. Voting is one important avenue for engagement, alongside advocacy, education, service, and respectful dialogue.
Micah 6:8 reminds us to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” These words offer a guiding framework for our participation in public life. Creation care calls us to consider not only our own needs but also the impact of our decisions on vulnerable communities, future generations, and the natural world entrusted to us.
May our actions reflect our gratitude for God’s creation, our care for our neighbors, and our shared hope for a world in which all people and the whole of creation can flourish.
