As Presbyterians, we believe that our government is a gift from God entrusted to do what faith communities, individuals, and organizations cannot do on their own: protect and preserve the well-being of individuals, communities, and God’s creation. We learn from scripture that we are to follow God’s example: “(God) executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing.”

A shutdown devalues this commitment to people and the planet, creating undue interruption and hardship for domestic programs supporting our communities. These programs provide nutrition and food assistance, housing, health, safety, and much more. It interrupts global initiatives that bring sustainability, development, and hope. Nationally, it negatively impacts civil servants, low-wage federal employees, and government contractors who carry out the work of the government daily. A government shutdown will undoubtedly harm the health of our nation. The consequences are immediately and disproportionately felt by society’s most vulnerable. 

We urge members of Congress to avoid this outcome by passing a ContinuingResolution. We call upon policymakers to uphold the morals our nation was founded upon by passing a bipartisan resolution. This must be done without including provisions that do more harm than good. This includes efforts to decrease food security for women and children, reduce access to affordable housing, limit climate conservation efforts, or negate the rights of migrants seeking protection at US borders. 

We see the shutdown as an insidious danger to our nation, its citizens, God’s creation, and our international community. We extend our prayers on behalf of members of Congress for they play a vital role in preserving, protecting, and ensuring that none are left behind.

We urgently ask you to join your voice with ours by contacting your members of Congress and urging them to keep the government fully operating and vital community programs funded. Tell Congress to act and pass a clean Continuing Resolution.