Leading with Love in 2025 

This new year brings us a new Congress, new administration, and new political landscape across the globe. For many, these transitions bring feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and fear. Communities around the country are navigating painful divisions within their families, friends, and churches.  

But amidst this great change, we are reminded of the enduring values that bind us together in our shared mission—hope, faith, and the unwavering commitment to building a world where justice and love prevail. Regardless of this shifting political landscape, our commitment to this work remains unchanged. Our work together will continue to be a testament to the strength of our shared faith and commitment. 

Looking Ahead 

This year holds exciting opportunities for growth and transformation for the United Church of Christ Office of Public Policy & Advocacy in Washington D.C. The Justice & Peace Action Network is launching our new Action Center, making it as easy as possible to reach your legislators on the issues that matter most. This new platform will help you reach out directly to decision makers, follow legislative updates, and even work as a congregation to take action. 

Writing letters, making phone calls, meeting with elected officials, and showing up in the streets in a consistent drumbeat of prayerful advocacy keeps the causes that matter to you in front of members of Congress. Values such as supporting just immigration, protecting trans youth, safeguarding the environment, and advocating for peace and human rights abroad are just some of important issues to be addressed in this next  session of Congress, and we are ready to raise the UCC’s prophetic voice in unison with yours to let Congress know where we stand. As new members are sworn in and bills are reintroduced, we can use this moment to renew our commitment to the issues central to our vision for a just world. 

We Want to Hear from You 

As we move forward in this new year, our office wants to make sure our work reflects the passions, priorities, and perspectives of YOU—our UCC advocates. To do this, we are launching a survey to learn more about the issues you care about most, the communities you’re a part of, and how we can collaborate deeper with our network. 

This short survey will help guide our efforts and ensure that we are focusing on the issues that matter most to our faith community. We deeply value your voice and perspective, and we encourage you to take a few moments to share your thoughts with us.  

Moving Forward with Love 

During this first week of 2025, let us remind ourselves that the pursuit of a just world is an ongoing journey, and we never walk alone. As the United Church of Christ, we are always in community as we do this work. No issue rests entirely on any one person’s shoulders. Small steps have powerful results. 

Whether you have been a part of the Justice & Peace Action Network for one decade or one day, we thank you for the love and dedication you bring to this work. Let us be bold in our actions, hopeful in our vision, and unwavering in our belief that a just world is not only possible but already within our reach. 

Wishing you hope, joy, and courage in the struggle for justice and peace! 

The UCC Office of Public Policy and Advocacy