We call on UK Christians to give voice to their values by voting at next week’s European Parliamentary Elections on June 4.
In a world grappling with global financial meltdown, climate change and poverty it is more important than ever that UK citizens choose their representatives carefully.
Voting is a right, but it’s also the right thing to do. It is a chance to make our voices heard in the midst of the current political turmoil. Many feel disillusioned with mainstream political parties, and the scandal over MPs’ expenses has emphasized the need for our politicians to be held accountable.
But we must hold our representatives accountable for more than just their expenses. They are accountable for enacting policies that promote justice and seek the common good. Extremist parties promoting values and policies which are incompatible with Christian beliefs need to be faced down with a high voter turnout.
We implore all Christians around the UK to vote next week and to use their vote positively for the values and interests they believe in.
This week the Church will be celebrating Pentecost, when God’s Holy Spirit was poured out on God’s people. In the coming days we hope that people across the European Union will discern the Spirit’s leading, and after prayerful consideration will use their vote to support peace, justice and the integrity of creation.
Revd Jonathan Edwards
General Secretary of the Baptist Union of Great Britain
Revd Stephen Poxon
President of the Methodist Conference
Revd Dr Kirsty Thorpe
Co-Moderator Elect of the United Reformed Church General Assembly
