Faith into Action by Soozung Sa Rankin

A United Methodist Witness in Pennsylvania (Witness) is the social justice and advocacy arm of United Methodist ministry in Pennsylvania; committed to communicating clear, concise, and effective messages to inspire United Methodists across the state to be voices for justice. Understanding the issues affecting our short-term and long-term goals will help each of us make well-informed decisions. This is not an issue of the separation of church and state; but about the community of believers making their voices heard. We need to be voters – well-informed voters.

Witness wants to provide information about important issues of justice, relate them to the United Methodist Social Principles, and provide you with resources to feel informed and involved. For some persons, it may be as simple as exercising the right to vote. For others, it may be as important as praying for our political leaders as they lead neighborhoods, communities, cities, counties and our state. Most important is putting our faith into action; serving as voices for justice and change in our neighborhoods and communities.

Take a look at the issues facing us from a new perspective. Study the Social Principles, understand your beliefs, seek to influence your congregation, family and community in ways you never have, and discern how you can make your voice heard.

There are also significant social and economic inequities present in every issue we face. The Social Principles of the United Methodist Church can be found in the 2004 Book of Discipline. It can be found in your church library or you may download it online from The United Methodist General Board of Church and Society website: www.umc-gbcs.org or order an updated 2005-2008 Social Principles and Study Guide for $1.25 per booklet from the same website. Resource your congregation. Encourage your church members to visit the General Board of Church and Society website for many sources of helpful information about social justice issues at: www.umc-gbcs.org.

Witness calls all members to put their faith into action. Become a member and receive emails and watch for Action Alerts. To obtain a membership brochure click here or you may also become a member of Witness by calling the Witness office to have a brochure mailed to you. We can be reached at 1-800-511-4937 or 717-236-6363 or write to us at 216 State Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101.

LEVELS OF MEMBERSHIP

PARTNER - $25.00 PER YEAR – Receive email quarterly newsletters, Action Alerts, invitation to Legislative Events and to our October Annual Meeting and Luncheon.

ASSOCIATE MEMBER - $10.00 PER YEAR – Receive email quarterly newsletter, Action Alerts, and information about Lobby Days.

Please contact us at umwitnesspa@epix.net with questions.