ABSENTEE BALLOTING:
I CAST MY VOTE BEFORE I LEFT HOME!

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ! A few weeks ago, by invitation, I attended the historic Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado. What makes this event, both personally and historically significant, is the nominee for the Democratic ticket for President of the United States is an African-American! What a momentous occasion! As guest of the convention, I want you to know no other occasion has reminded me more of our need to register and vote. But, those who will be “Marching into Memphis with Resurrection Power” for the National Convocation in November, please be sure you complete an absentee ballot! Equally important to our excitement for the 101st convocation is our civic contribution to impact the United States of America with our deliberate participation in this year’s historic presidential election.

I encourage every member and friend of the Church of God in Christ to register, and then VOTE in November! Make preparation to have your vote counted by applying for an “absentee ballot” from your local board of elections. Due to the uncertainty of presidential politics and the climate of the electorate, it is necessary for the saints to plan our attendance at the Holy Convocation carefully and deliberately so it does not result in your absence from the ballot box at home. This year, more than ever, The Church of God in Christ must cast its ballot in this historic presidential race. You may make application by letter or note. Whichever method you choose, the application must be made in writing and signed. There is an application form available at your local election office or by downloading an application from the web site of your Secretary of State.

We have always been a significant constituency and loyal voting bloc to the candidate that best represents our interests in matters on the economy, domestic/foreign policy, the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, and other sociopolitical initiatives that inure public confidence and benefit to the members of our global Christian organization. Our responsibility to God is demonstrated in our service to others and our participation in a democracy our forefathers and foremothers paid the price of martyrdom that brings us to this historic moment.

My prayers for this year are focused on your success around the world in every venue of ministry the Lord has called you to undertake for the sake of the Kingdom. Let us be faithful to the preaching of the Apostle Paul whose words compliment our times: “that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection!” God willing, I am looking forward to seeing you in Memphis where I expect to hear you say “I CAST MY VOTE BEFORE I LEFT HOME!”

Your Servant in Christ!
Bishop Charles E. Blake, Sr.
The Seventh in Succession
Presiding Bishop
THE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST, INC.