Resources for Conscientious Objection

 
 

From the Roman Empire,

to the American Revolution,

to the Vietnam War,

to 2025 —

People have objected to carrying out violence for imperialist interests.

This isn’t about attending our church — this is about our church attending to you and what you need.

In unlikely times,

we are working to be your unlikely partner.

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For nearly all people assigned male at birth currently between the age of 18-25, registration with the “Selective Service System” is federally required.

“Federal law requires nearly all male U.S. citizens and male immigrants to register at age 18. The agency permits males up to age 25 to complete their registration with Selective Service System.

In a national emergency, Selective Service System will use the registry to provide personnel to the Department of Defense and alternative service for conscientious objectors, if authorized by the President and Congress.” (sss*gov)

  • The Center on Conscience & War

    Veterans for Peace

    WRI - The Right to Refuse to Kill

  • Recognized as historic peace churches, the Religious Society of Friends, the Church of the Brethren, and the Mennonite Church USA provide many great resources on movements of peace, justice, and conscientious objection spanning from Pre-colonial America to 2025.

    The Religious Society of Friends, the Quakers —

    • Here, you can briefly read about longstanding Quaker commitments to peace.

    • Here, you can read about the Quaker United Nations Office (QUNO) and their work worldwide advocating for peace and justice.

    Church of the Brethren —

    • You can read here about the Brethren’s longstanding commitment to peace as well as their work related to global peacemaking.

    Mennonite Church USA, the Mennonites —

    • Offered here is a resource for Mennonite youth specifically related to conscientious objection.

    Support by mainline Protestant churches for conscientious objection has also been present throughout the history of the United States. Below you can find some statements and resources for youth and young adults.

    The Episcopal Church —

    • Check out this resource created specifically for young adults within the Episcopal church navigating their conscience relating to war.

    Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA) —

    • This blog outlines the history of the Presbyterian Church USA and their involvement and support of conscientious objectors.

  • If you’re unsure how to translate your internal beliefs and convictions into a recognized objection, we would be glad to be a partner with you.

    What do we have to offer?

    Resources agree that in the case of a draft, it is important to have built a longstanding record of outward involvement related to whatever our internal beliefs might be, especially to claim conscientious objection.

    If you would like to connect and learn more about our community, or have a conversation about your specific needs, send us an email —

    info@grantparkchurch.com

    Goodness and peace to you and your conscience.