Council of Bishops Graphic
October 23, 2025
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
As a people called United Methodists, who proclaim God’s justice, peace, and care for all people, we lament the ongoing government shutdown in the United States and the harm it is causing to countless families, workers, and communities. Many individuals are without income, vital social services are being disrupted, and many who are already living in vulnerable situations are being placed in greater distress. This moment calls for our collective compassion, advocacy, and prayerful action.
This government shutdown is not only affecting families and communities in the United States but also impacting people and partners across the world who depend on the stability and aid of the United States.
We urge those elected or appointed to public posts or holding other positions in government to act as responsible leaders and stewards of the authority and resources entrusted to them. We call on all government officials to aspire to the highest standards of professionalism, honesty, and integrity. Furthermore, we urge all governments to adopt policies and practices that guarantee accountability and transparency in fostering and maintaining the trust of the public.” (UMC Social Principles ¶163, The Political Community).
We call on members of the United States Congress and all elected leaders to set aside partisanship, seek common ground, work together toward a just resolution and act responsibly for the sake of the welfare of all people who they have been elected to serve.
We call on the people of The United Methodist Church to join together in prayer —for our elected leaders to act with wisdom and courage, for individuals and families whose livelihoods are at risk, and for justice and compassion to prevail.
Finally we reclaim our call to be attentive to the needs of people within our communities. May we respond with tangible acts of compassion and kindness to those experiencing hardship during this time.
Scripture reminds us: “Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). May this be our ongoing collective witness as a people of faith and hope—trusting that God is able to bring unity out of division, justice out of oppression and peace out of chaos.
Yours in the name of Jesus the risen Christ,
Bishop Tracy S. Malone,k President – Council of Bishops, The United Methodist Church