Make sure to mark your calendars! The Universal Life Church Ministries is founding a new holiday, Universal Day, and we're inviting all of our members in Kansas to join the inaugural celebrating on November 3. Use the guide below to view our list of some of our favorite ways to celebrate this exciting occasion in your area.
1. Become Ordained in Kansas
Take this opportunity to become ordained yet with the ULC. If you haven't yet signed up to join us, that’s step one! The Universal Life Church Ministries is proud to be pioneers of breaking down the barriers to ordination by providing a clear and simple path online for anyone who feels so-called. The application is very simple and only a few minutes to fill out. If you are interested, click the button below to begin the online ordination process!
2. Vote in Kansas
As individuals, it sometimes feels like we may not have the power to create change. It is important to remember we can elect leaders who are ready and willing to actualize our visions of a better future. Casting a vote is the single most straightforward way to make your individual voice and demands heard by those in positions of power. We acknowledge these are not normal times, but as a part of Universal Day, we encourage all to take part in the democratic process by still filling out a ballot.
If you are registered as a voter in Kansas, you are able to request an absentee ballot simply by filling out an application on the state government’s website. To save you some time, we've included a direct link below. Kansas law does not require voters to provide a reason for requesting an absentee ballot, but you should request it ASAP. Also, remember these key dates that we have laid out here for you. Remember to always submit your ballot as early as you can to avoid missing the deadline.
Voter Registration Details
- In-person Registration Deadline: 10/13/2020
- Mail Registration Deadline: Postmarked 10/13/2020
- Online Registration Deadline: 10/13/2020
- Election-Day Registration: Not Allowed
Register to Vote
If you haven't had a chance to register to vote, it may not be too late. Follow the link here to get signed up:
Taking Time Off Work
Health officials have provided suggested measures and guidelines for staying safe while voting in person. If you are going to a physical polling location to cast you vote on Universal Day, please keep these in mind. We want everyone to be aware of employees rights around voting and what your employers responsibility is. Employers are required to make accommodations allowing their employees the ability to participate in the voting process. Check with your HR department to better understand how the company policy works. If you run into any issues when you request for time off to vote, you can let them know you will be observing Universal Day on November 3rd. . As an official religious holiday, your employer ought to be aware of federal law allowing you to observe Universal Day. No matter who or what you vote for, here's a wholehearted reminder to make sure your choices are in-line with your values and are made freely with a conscientious mind and heart.
3. Write to Elected Officials
After you have voted, there is still more to do! Once you've taken that step, consider other strategies like contacting your elected representatives to your voice heard. Establishing a line of communication with these officials directly lets them know what policies you support. To help in making this process as simple as possible, we've created a database of contact information for elected officials. All you need to do is enter your zip code below to see your representative and how to get in touch with them!
4. Meditate or Pray
After you make sure your voice is heard by others, also take some time to connect with your inner self. It is necessary in life to, set aside time to re-energize your mind and organize your thoughts. Try an activity such as prayer, meditation, or a different preferred mental exercise. Don't dismiss the power of thought and reflection as powerful precursors to action. There is so much work to be done, so it’s imperative you take all possible measures to ensure success. Having your mind and body centered and on the same page is not a step to be overlooked.
5. Help Build Community
As a member of the Universal Life Church Ministries, you have already demonstrated a propensity for leadership. We’re consistently inspired by the work that our ministers undertake in their communities, and it is our hope that Universal Day creates an additional platform from which to launch effective organizing and community-building efforts. We encourage you to connect with your fellow ULCM members to join forces and ensure that your voices are heard by those in power.
Stay Connected
Individual people pushing for change can be a powerful force, but groups working together with a common goal are guaranteed to increase their reach and effectiveness.