Dear Beloved Members of the Sixth Episcopal District of the CME Church:
I write to you today with a sense of urgency and purpose regarding our sacred duty as citizens and people of faith. As your bishop, I am calling on each of you to participate wholeheartedly in our Operation Voter Turnout Initiative for the upcoming election. Our church has long stood at the forefront of the struggle for civil rights and equal representation.
Now, more than ever, we must continue this legacy by ensuring our voices are heard at the ballot box. The power of our vote is a right and a responsibility we owe to our community and future generations. I am asking all church members to take two critical actions:
1. Vote in person on Tuesday, October 15th, the first day of early voting. Let us make a powerful statement by turning out en masse on this day. (Update: Last week saw many records broken as 1.4 million ballots have been cast in Georgia since early voting began last Tuesday.)
2. Implement our Personal Voter Plan (PVP) to encourage at least ten family members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers to vote during the early voting period.
Remember, our influence extends far beyond the walls of our churches. By mobilizing our networks, we can create a ripple effect that will be felt across Georgia.
Why This Matters
Studies have shown that regular church attendance is strongly correlated with higher voter turnout. As people of faith, we have a unique opportunity to lead by example and inspire others to participate in our democracy. Our efforts are particularly crucial given recent challenges to voting rights. By voting early and encouraging others to do the same, we can help overcome potential barriers and ensure maximum participation from our community.
Our Plan of Action
1. Vote Early: Mark your calendars for October 15th. Arrange transportation to your polling place, and if possible, organize carpools for fellow church members.
2. Implement Your PVP: Use the provided Personal Voter Plan guide to identify ten people in your circle who you will personally encourage to vote. Follow up with them regularly to ensure they have a plan to cast their ballot.
3. Spread the Word: Share information about early voting dates, polling locations, and voter ID requirements with your networks. Knowledge is power, and we must ensure our community is well-informed.
4. Offer Support: If you encounter anyone facing obstacles to voting, direct them to our church's Operation Voter Turnout committee for assistance.
Remember, our strength lies in our unity and commitment to action. Let us honor the sacrifices of those who came before us by exercising our right to vote and encouraging others to do the same. May God bless you and guide us all as we engage in this crucial civic duty. In faith and service,
Bishop Thomas L. Brown, Sr.,
Sixth Episcopal District of the CME Church
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