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Christians live out their baptismal vocation in service to the world in many ways. The ELCA affirms that civic participation—including voting, public advocacy and community engagement—is one of those ways. The election season is a time when our love can shine a light with a source independent of partisan messages. Elections are a structured way for people to help choose leaders accountable for the well-being of all and to ensure that every voice, especially those of people in the margins, is heard.
Midterm Election Day on Nov. 3, 2026, is right around the corner. Here are five ways your faith community can get involved in the process.
Reach out to your election administration leaders. Secretaries of state and county or municipal officials have a key role in election administration systems, often under intense scrutiny and pressure. Lutherans recognize that one way that Christian vocation finds expression is through dedicated, competent public service, and faith leaders can honor this vocation and thank community leaders for their critical work. Their responsibilities include certifying election results, testing voting equipment, providing guidance and support to local election officials, maintaining voter rolls and ensuring eligible voters can cast a ballot that is counted. Offer support and participate in opportunities to see how these systems work.
Post voting facts on bulletin boards in your church or ministries. Witness in Society’s “Prepared to Vote Checklist” is a handy way to group together basic local registration facts and voting plan considerations, such as mail-in and early voting rules.
Start conversations about voting as a person of faith. The “Intergenerational Conversation Starter” includes questions such as “What was it like the first time you voted?” and “How has your faith impacted your voting choices?” Witness in Society’s Bible studies and ELCA study guides for the social message “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States: Discipleship in a Democracy” can also prompt rich reflection.
Help your neighbors cast their vote. Some of us need registration help or rides to polling locations. Some congregations show hospitality to voters and poll workers on election day. Individuals may even feel called to direct roles at the polls. The toolkit from Witness in Society can help determine what your faith community can do.
Witness to the opportunity of election day through prayer. Synods and local congregations of various denominations can take part in or host vigils. The ELCA Worship team has tools to help you plan, including “Worship Resources for a National Election.”
An important part of faithful civic engagement is abiding by the law. “Being a Public Church in the Electoral Process: A Guide for Churches and Rostered Ministers” reinforces nonpartisan guidance.
