In October of 1945 world leaders adopted the Charter of the United Nations. Since that time, the UN has helped resolve over 170 conflicts, the most recent being East Timor. It has eradicated smallpox. It has ended apartheid in South Africa. Today it provides around half of the world’s food aid.
Despite all of these accomplishments and many more, today we face new challenges. Economic inequality has been increasing over the past few decades, while development assistance is declining. AIDS, a disease of poverty, threatens to unravel entire countries and regions. Today’s armed conflicts and increasing acts of terrorism bring deadly violence into the heart of communities, destroying the lives of civilians who should be protected.
The role of the churches in shaping the UN is evident in its history and in artwork in and around its building. Former Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld, the UN’s most famous leader, once said, “The United Nations stands outside—necessarily outside—all confessions. But it is, nevertheless, an instrument of faith. As such, it is inspired by what unites and not by what divides the great religions of the world.” Sixty years ago, in a world recovering from two major world wars, people were inspired by the vision of Isaiah, “Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.” The words of the prophet are imprinted in a park facing the UN.
Churches and other advocacy organizations work to support as well as to challenge the UN on a daily basis, whether out in the world or in UN offices in New York City and Geneva. In the past year, the Presbyterian United Nations Office has brought church leaders from the Middle East, Sudan, and Colombia to the United Nations. These leaders speak with a moral authority that is respected by both governments and UN staff. Each brought words of encouragement and words of challenge. They left the UN encouraged by international efforts to bring peace to conflicts around the globe.
“In a post 9/11 world the UN is eager to hear from religious communities,” says the Rev. Jennifer Butler, who represents the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) at the UN. “Religious leaders are often out in front, bringing peace where communities have been torn apart and doing work no government can effectively do. At the same time, religion is often a major factor in conflicts. The job of the Presbyterian representative to the UN is to make sure the voices of mission workers and partner churches around the world are heard in the halls of the UN. The UN is listening.”
This year you have an opportunity to remind your congregation about the role of people of faith in the international community. Make a point of including this important ministry during October. By beginning with World Communion Sunday, remind congregants the power of being a part of the Church Universal. Consider inviting a former mission co-worker or someone else knowledgeable about the role of the church in the world to speak to your congregation. Or, if possible, consider visiting the Presbyterian United Nations Office to learn more about the UN and our actions here! On October 22 consider focusing your worship service on the ideals of the UN and the role Christians can play in that system. Check out the Presbyterian United Nations Office Web site for worship resources including liturgies, children’s sermons, and more. Or simply visit the Web site and see what your representative is doing at the United Nations.
Encourage young people in your congregation to try “Trick or Treat for UNICEF.” This program, founded by a Presbyterian minister, helps to raise funds for the United Nations Children’s Fund to provide immunizations, food, and educational resources for children around the world.
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