Churches Fight 'Spirit of Divisiveness' During 2016 Election

The 2016 election has been a heated one, causing a stark divide amongst evangelicals. But one event in particular, the Election Day Communion, strives for unity and brings churches together on Election Day. 

The observance was organized by the Peace and Justice Support Network, a ministry of the Mennonite Mission Network, part of the Mennonite Church USA. It began in 2012 where 900 churches came together during the presidential election. 

It was developed due to a concern about Christians being shaped more by the tactics of politicians and ideologies of political parties rather than their identity in Jesus, according to Jason Boone, the coordinating minister for the Peace and Justice Support Network. 

So far, 100 churches have signed up for this 2016 election event, with the goal to combat the "spirit of divisiveness." 

"We watched the rancor and bitterness of this election reach new highs (and new lows). We've seen that spirit of divisiveness seep into our communities, our neighborhoods, even our churches," the EDC's website states. 

"This year more than ever we need to remind ourselves where our true hope is found. We need to participate in holy acts of union and reconciliation. We need to declare our allegiance to Jesus, the prince of peace," the statement continues. 
 

Boone told the Christian Post the observance is focused on: "The Church being the Church on Election Day, gathering at the Lord's table to remember, to practice, to give thanks for, and to proclaim its allegiance to Christ." 

"As this election cycle began to heat up, we heard from folks across the country asking if it was happening again. With the dynamics of this election being heightened compared to 2012, it was an easy decision to bring EDC back," Boone says. 
Gum Spring United Methodist Church is observing the Election Day Communion this year for the first time. 

Minister Lauren Lobenhofer explained that she had previously overseen the event with her former congregation. 

"The service was a really powerful experience of God's presence in a chaotic and divisive time. I decided to bring the service to my present appointment, Gum Spring UMC, because it was such a meaningful worship experience in 2012," says Lobenhofer.

"Our nation is deeply divided. Anger and vitriol are coming from everywhere on the political spectrum. The Church needs a way to remember that, no matter where we stand politically, we are one Body of Christ," Lobenhofer continues.

She also explained the importance of inviting everyone to the table no matter what their background may be. 

"Jesus invited disciples of different backgrounds to his table. They were fishermen and carpenters and zealots, but in breaking bread together they were one," she says.

CBN is also calling Christians to still stay involved in this 2016 election. To register to vote or find out more visit.