Consider this your notice to make a mark on your calendars! The Universal Life Church Ministries is creating a new holiday, Universal Day, and we're inviting our members and ministers in Michigan to join us in celebrating this November 3. There are all endless of ways to celebrate, and we have put together a guide with just a few of our favorite ways to observe this exciting occasion where you are.
1. Become Ordained in Michigan
Have you been to the ULC website to get ordained yet? It is the very first step to take in order to join us! Universal Life Church Ministries is proud to be a pioneer in breaking down traditional barriers to ordination. We are happy to provide a clear and simple path for anyone who feels called to ministry. The application takes only a few minutes to fill out online; if interested click the button below to begin the process now!
2. Vote in Michigan
As individuals, it sometimes feels like we do not have the power to change the world. We need to focus on the fact that we can work together to elect leaders who are ready and willing to bring about those visions of a better future. Casting your vote is the singular most effective way to make your voice and your demands heard. We recognize these are unique times, but as part of your celebration of Universal Day, we encourage you to take part in the democratic process by making your vote.
Living in Michigan and being registered to vote there qualifies you to ask your state to send you an absentee ballot. You will have to apply with the state to receive the absentee ballot but it will allow you to safely vote from home. Request it soon! Please do remember that it is essential to return your ballot as soon as possible to ensure it gets counted on Universal Day!
Voter Registration Details
- In-person Registration Deadline: 10/19/2020
- Mail Registration Deadline: Postmarked 10/19/2020
- Online Registration Deadline: 10/19/2020
- Election-Day Registration: Yes, In-Person
Register to Vote
Haven't had a chance to register to vote? It may not be too late – click on the link here to get registered:
Taking Time Off Work
We know these are not ideal times to be in-person voting, so please follow the guidelines of public health officials to stay healthy. On this Universal Day, please keep health in mind if you’ll be casting a vote at a physical polling location. Employers are required to make certain accommodations for their employees allowing them the ability to participate in the voting process. If you're not familiar with your companies process, check in with the HR department to get a overview of how the policy works. If there is any reason they decide to refuse your request for time off to vote, we'd hope that you can remind them of the laws surrounding reasonable accommodations for religious holidays. As an official religious holiday, your employer will need to be flexible in allowing you observance of Universal Day on November 3. No matter your politics, we want to give you a friendly reminder to make sure your votes are in-line with your values and are made freely with a clear mind and a caring heart.
3. Write to Elected Officials
Don't let the work end with just voting! Once you've taken that first step, consider other strategies for making your voice heard. Reach out to your elected representatives. Establish a line of communication directly so you can let them know what policies you personally support. In order to help make this process as simple as possible, we've created a database of contact information fso you can just enter your zip code below and find out who represents you and what their contact info is!
4. Meditate or Pray
Make connecting with your inner self a priority. Setting aside the time to re-energize your spirit and organize your thoughts can be key to manifesting change in the world. Whether that activity be spending time outdoors, meditating, or praying, or a different preferred mental exercise – don't downplay the power of thought and reflection as essential precursors to action. Having your mind and body on the same page is not a step to be overlooked.
5. Help Build Community
Being member of the Universal Life Church Ministries, means you have already demonstrated a propensity for leadership. We are so often inspired by the amazing work that our ministers undertake in their communities, and it is our greatest wish that Universal Day creates an additional platform from where like minded people can launch effective organizing and community-building efforts. We encourage you to connect with each other! Find your fellow ULCM members to join forces with and ensure that your voices are heard by all those in power.
Stay Connected
Individuals insisting on change can be powerful, but by banding together with others toward a common goal, we are guaranteed to increase the reach and effectiveness of our efforts.