Over the past few Sundays, we have invited those gathered at Good Sam to make a commitment to vote in the upcoming election. This Sunday, October 18, we invite you to bring your completed ballot to church and join us for a short, prayerful procession to the ballot drop box at the Jewish Community Center on Executive Drive.

Together, we will offer a visible witness to our belief that voting is sacred public witness.

Everyone is welcome to participate, whether or not you have a ballot with you. We recognize that some are not eligible to vote, others have already submitted their ballots, and some may still be preparing to vote. All are welcome to walk with us as we affirm the importance of participating in the civic life of our community.

Immediately following the 10 a.m. service, we will gather under the tent between the Worship Center and Roetter Hall for a brief prayer. Those participating in the procession will then head to the ballot drop box, while others are welcome to continue to the Parish Hall.

A note about the Pastoral Care Forum: The forum originally scheduled for this Sunday has been postponed until November 1. I am grateful to the Pastoral Care Team for their flexibility in making room for this opportunity, organized through our JustAction ministry, to connect our faith with civic engagement.

Other Ways to Support Our Neighbors This Election Season

There are additional opportunities to help ensure that our neighbors can exercise their right to vote:

• Poll Monitoring: Serve as a nonpartisan observer at voting sites, helping ensure that eligible voters can cast their ballots. Alliance San Diego is offering an online Election Protectors training on October 20, from 6:30–7:30 p.m. After training, volunteers can sign up for shifts during early voting, beginning October 24, or on Election Day.
• Voter Accompaniment: Help neighbors get to the polls by offering rides or walking alongside them as a supportive presence. The San Diego Organizing Project is offering an online training on October 22, from 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Voter Registration: Know someone who is not yet registered to vote? The regular registration deadline is October 19. Those who miss the deadline may still be able to register conditionally and vote at the Registrar of Voters office or a vote center.

These are simple, practical ways to put our faith into action by supporting our neighbors and strengthening our community.

Please bring your completed ballot and join us this Sunday for a prayerful procession to the ballot drop box. And please mark your calendar for November 1, when we will gather for our Pastoral Care Forum.

Blessings,

Paul