Ahead of the United States 2024 presidential election, the Episcopal Church has set up a program that is channeled at assisting members to get involved in the democratic process in the nation.
A program called Episcopal Election Activators is being organized by the Church's Office of Government Relations (OGR). They will train Episcopalians to be involved in voter registration and education, among other election matters.
Founded in 2022, OGR Relations Officer Alan Yarborough, in a chat with The Christian Post, spoke on the aim of the program. He said, "We launched the pilot cohort of Episcopal Election Activators ahead of the 2022 midterm elections to offer educational support, coaching, and networking among Episcopalians passionate about supporting the democratic process."
He added that there are 55 activators in the current election cycle and more people are enjoined to participate as the application process is still open for others.
He said further on the program's purpose, "Through the program, we aim to motivate people to help their local churches serve their communities by promoting informed, respectful civic education and participation.”
OGR’s website states the requirements for the activator program include being involved through next year, giving updates often, and signing a pledge not to be partisan in their activator work.
The activators program comes when some churches seek to mobilize members to be involved and vote in the political process.
Speaking on the program to Episcopal New Service, one of its members, Emily Hopkins of the Episcopal Diocese of California, who is a retired Navy captain and was involved in the 2022 pilot cohort said:
"I do what I can in a nonpartisan way to strengthen our democracy. As Episcopalians, I think we're supposed to be the hands and feet in our community and our daily lives, so this is a way we can make a difference. It empowers people."
Also, a 71-year-old member of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina Kim Hayes, is another of the activators involved this year. She said she felt a sense of urgency in her efforts.
She said, "It's just crucial for people to get out and vote and take responsibility for electing who is representing us."
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