RESOLUTION: A CALL FOR PRAYER AND DIALOGUE

WHEREAS, as disciples of Christ we are clearly called to be makers of peace (Matthew 5:9) and creators of justice (Micah 6:8, Amos 5:4); and

WHEREAS, there have been significant disputes in churches since the beginning of churches as evidenced by the book of Acts and the writings of Paul as he urged churches towards unity and resolution of differences, (examples, eating meat sacrificed to idols, welcoming gentiles into the churches, the question of circumcision for gentile Christians); and

WHEREAS, there are significant differences among the members of our churches regarding questions of war and peace, American foreign policy, and currently the so-called war on terrorism, as well as the possibility of military pre-emptive strike against the nation and people of Iraq; and

WHEREAS, there are many statements from religious leaders and others opposing the potential of war with the people and nation of Iraq being sent to the President and Congress of the United States; and

WHEREAS, churches are places where people might pray and seek the will of God, congregate and converse about significant issues of our times from differing perspectives, speaking and listening to one another with respect and love; and

WHEREAS, such conversation and prayer is also essential to being informed and active citizens of this nation, and will, we believe, ultimately lead us all in the direction of peace and God's shalom;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that we the delegates to the 135th Annual Meeting of the Connecticut Conference of the United Church of Christ call upon the churches of the Conference to provide opportunities for members and friends of the churches to gather in these times for significant conversations regarding the issue of war and peace, the policies and actions of the United States with regard to the nation and people of Iraq; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we call upon the Justice and Witness Ministry staff and volunteers in the Conference to make available to the churches information regarding resources that might inform and facilitate such conversation and prayer; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that we pledge ourselves as members of the churches of the Connecticut Conference, United Church of Christ, to such engage in such conversation and prayer in our churches as ways of becoming ever more faithful disciples of Christ, makers of peace, and creators of justice, and citizens of this nation.

The Executive Board, The Congregational Church in South Glastonbury, Connecticut
September 24, 2002