Bishop Hutterer Joins Arizona Faith Leaders’ Call for a Peaceful Election
Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer has joined faith leaders across Arizona in calling for informed participation, safe and accessible voting, and a peaceful 2026 election. The shared statement, coordinated by Arizona Faith Network, urges communities to protect human dignity, seek truth and reject political violence before, during and after the election.
The signatories represent Christian, Jewish and Muslim communities. Together, they affirm that people of faith can disagree politically while remaining responsible for one another’s well-being.
For Lutherans, this call reflects our baptismal vocation to serve our neighbors and work for justice and peace. Grounded in God’s grace, we bring our faith into public life through care for others, especially people who are vulnerable, marginalized or too often unheard.
The statement offers practical guidance for individuals and congregations:
Participate thoughtfully. Eligible voters are encouraged to study the issues and vote according to conscience, with concern for their neighbors. Those who cannot vote can volunteer, learn about public issues and support peaceful participation.
Protect people and access. Support safe voting without intimidation or discrimination. Treat election workers, volunteers and public servants with gratitude and respect.
Verify before sharing. Consult responsible election officials and credible sources, correct misinformation and allow time for counting and certification. Election-night projections are not final results; disputes should follow established procedures.
Practice active peacemaking. Stand alongside people facing threats, reject dehumanizing speech and create spaces for prayer, listening and dialogue.
The leaders also reject using religion to justify violence or claim divine authority for any candidate or party. Their call holds peacemaking together with a firm commitment to truth, justice and protecting neighbors.
Although addressed to Arizona, the statement offers a timely invitation for congregations throughout the Grand Canyon Synod: pray for voters, election workers, public servants and candidates; discuss how your congregation can support peaceful civic life; and continue caring for one another after the election.
Read and share the full statement and watch the accompanying video. Our calling to love our neighbors continues long after the ballots are counted.