The purpose of Citizenship Sunday is twofold: First, it is to help our congregations be educated and inspired by God’s Word and Spirit to impact their communities for Christ by fulfilling their responsibilities as Christian citizens. Secondly it is to connect the congregation with local civic leaders, if possible, to establish a relationship of mutual respect through which we can effectively advance the Gospel as we seek to serve those who lead.
Though each Citizenship Sunday can be modified to meet the specific needs of your congregation, we would hope to accomplish the following:
1. Introduce our civic leaders to the congregation
2. Allow civic leaders to hear The Gospel of Jesus Christ.
3. Remind the congregation and Civic leaders of the faithfulness of God throughout our history, and to make clear the proper interpretation of the doctrine of separation of church and state.
4. Establish, or enhance the relationship between the congregation and local government.
5. Offer the resources of the local church to serve our civic leaders as they serve the community.
6. Provide an opportunity for every eligible church member to be registered to vote.
We believe that the above objectives are a practical way to be the “salt of the earth” according to Scripture.
1. Send a written invitation to civic leaders, e.g., town supervisor, councilmen or women, justices, public school officials, etc. (See sample letter) Have them RSVP the church.
2. When they arrive seat them near the front and prepare name tags for them so that they can be easily identified by members of the congregation.
During the service we will ask each one to come and introduce himself to the congregation.
3. As a gesture of gratitude for their response to our invitation we will present them with Dave Barton’s Book, “Original Intent” (About the intent of our founding fathers) as well as a framed plaque to hang in their office with our national motto.
Dear
Mr./Mrs. _______________
Your
neighbors and friends here at ___(Name of Church)___ are planning a
special “Citizenship Sunday” worship celebration on __(Date_and time) to
recognize our civic leaders for their diligent work in helping us to maintain
peace, order and prosperity.
We
would like to invite you and your family to join us, and give our congregation
an opportunity to meet you, and if you’d like, to share some of your concerns
for our community.
It
is our desire to help you, however possible, in your service to our community.
Please
RSVP _________________
Sincerely
Yours,
Reverend ______________________