Beloved siblings in Christ across the Greater Northwest Area,

I write to you with care and conviction regarding a matter that is drawing public attention and raising important questions for us as United Methodist leaders and congregations. A recent IRS ruling suggests churches and religious organizations may not automatically lose their tax-exempt status if they engage in political endorsements. While such a ruling may provide legal cover for partisan endorsements, it does not change who we are—or how we are called to live out our faith—as United Methodists.

Here in the Greater Northwest Area, we know what it means to hold diverse perspectives in community. From the bustling, tech-driven culture of Seattle to the rural landscapes of Alaska and Idaho, from Portland’s creative activism to the agricultural heart of eastern Washington and Oregon, from indigenous wisdom to the voices of immigrant communities—the Pacific Northwest teaches us that diversity is not a weakness but a gift. This region shows us daily that we can listen across differences, wrestle with complex issues, and remain bound together by grace.

Our mission is clear: we exist to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. That mission does not align us with political parties or candidates. When churches or clergy engage in partisan political endorsements, we risk diminishing our witness, distorting our message, and dividing the Body of Christ. Instead, our calling is to be a beacon of God’s love, justice, and grace for all people, not a platform for political agendas.

The Social Principles of The United Methodist Church give us guidance here. The United Methodist Church affirms the integrity and independence of both the Church and the State, advocating for a relationship rooted in mutual respect, not domination or coercion. We encourage churches to speak out boldly on issues and policies from a gospel perspective. We further believe churches have a right and responsibility to educate and equip their congregations and communities to be effective advocates for justice in the wider world” (United Methodist 2025–2028 Social Principles, The Political Community, Government Responsibilities, A., Church and Governments).

I strongly advise all United Methodist clergy and congregations in the Greater Northwest Area to refrain from engaging in partisan political endorsements or affiliations in the name of the Church. As individuals, clergy and laity are encouraged to participate fully in the democratic process. But as the Church, our pulpits and platforms are not tools of partisan politics. They are spaces where the gospel is proclaimed, governments are held accountable, and the marginalized are defended. They are spaces where we speak and act against poverty, racism, violence, and injustice—not out of allegiance to any party but rooted in scripture and our Wesleyan tradition of faith put into action.

Our time to live our witness is now. Every disciple can have opinions, voice support, and maintain integrity without having pulpits and meeting rooms mimic our political arenas. Be the difference the world needs. Give the world an alternative view of what is possible.

Let us continue to lead with conviction and humility, always keeping our eyes on the calling to love God, love our neighbors, and embody the gospel of Jesus Christ in all that we do.

Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth
Greater Northwest Episcopal Area