In 2016 we formally proclaimed ourselves to be a Just Peace congregation of the United Church of Christ. The Just Peace movement is a direct response to the centuries-old theory that seeks to justify Christians condoning, or being involved in a so-called “Just War.” Click here for our church’s Just Peace statement
If you are interested in the work of JPAT speak with our pastor, or a member of our team. You may also visit the UCC website for more information on just peace work by clicking on this link: UCC Action Center
Support JPAT by purchasing one of these COEXIST Magnetic Bumper Stickers (see picture). As you can see, they are quite beautiful and speak volumes. They measure 3” x 10.25” and can easily be attached to any metal surface. If you would like one for your car (or refrigerator), stop by the church office to pick one up. Suggested donation of $10 supports JPAT. Pick one up and spread the word!
In following the non-violent example and teachings of Jesus we will work toward a world that promotes the well-being of all people, where conflicts are resolved through non-violent communication and negotiation, without resort to war, exploitation, or violence – and to embody these principles in our life and witness as individuals, and as a congregation.
Our Just Peace Action Team (JPAT) focuses on the following four main areas of concern and action. We currently support 25 partners (see links to their websites below). Donations to help us support these partners may be mailed to our church at P.O. Box 945, Lincoln City, OR 97367 with the notation “JPAT Fund #2270” on the memo line of the check.
Social Justice & Equality – so that all may live free from fear – Brennan Center for Justice
- Equality for all (racial, gender, LGBTQIA+, age, disability, etc.)
- Food, housing, health care, education, and voting rights for all
- Lower recidivism through prison reform and restorative justice practices
- Address anger and fear, and the hatred and the violence they breed
Economic Justice – so that all may live with dignity – Oregon Center for Public Policy
- Equal opportunity jobs and wage fairness – Economic Policy Institute
- Consumer justice – Public Citizen
- Better balance of business goals – just and moral results as well as profits and earnings:
Earth Justice – so that all species and ecosystems are sustained – Union of Concerned Scientists
- Climate Change reversal/mitigation
- 350 PDX
- Environmental Defense Fund
- Our Children’s Trust
- Honor the Earth (and its “Stop Line 3 & 5” campaigns)
- Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network, International
- Environmental and species protections
Just Peace Among Nations – so human lives everywhere are valued & protected – World BEYOND War
- War is not an acceptable solution to International disputes – Fields of Peace
- Migrant, immigrant & refugee support / End human trafficking – Salem for Refugees
In 2021, JPAT began making annual donations to various advocacy organizations whose focus is more on education and/or services, as opposed to creating and leading new and ongoing “campaigns” offering individuals opportunities to “take action” on issues of importance to them. Here are the most recent dates of those donations and the website links to the organizations that received them:
July 14, 2021 – Adalah Justice Project
September 10, 2021 – Indian Country Today
October 8, 2021 – Tribal Nations Maps
February 5, 2022 – Elakha Alliance
March 18, 2022 – Water Protector Legal Collective
April 2, 2022 – UCC Ukraine Emergency Appeal
June 3, 2022 – Protect Democracy
June 3, 2022 – Stand Up to Factory Farms
June 3, 2022 – Lift Every Voice Oregon
A resolution is a promise of action. The following “We Stand with You” JPAT Resolutions are JPAT’s promise to support the principles of peace and social/environmental justice in our community, state, nation, and world.
Each Resolution:
- describes past and present injustices related to our planet and to specific groups of people, whose voices are not being adequately heard, and
- includes website-linked names of JPAT-supported organizations, who are committed to actively address these injustices.
Congregational Church of Lincoln City, United Church of Christ 