Public witness

Conscientious Objectors

If you are considering registering as a conscientious objector, you should establish a file documenting your case through your denomination. The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Conscientious Objector Packet will take you step by step through the process. The C.O. Packet is for youth, parents, ministers, youth workers and anyone who counsels youth on important decisions about their future and the impact of those decisions.

From the Selective Service System: “A conscientious objector is one who is opposed to serving in the armed forces and/or bearing arms on the grounds of moral or religious principles.” www.sss.gov/FSConsobj.htm Resources The Central Committee for Conscientious Objectors*, an independent, non-profit organization supporting individual and collective resistance to war and preparations for war. The Seattle Draft and Military Counseling Center*, a non-governmental, non-profit organization seeking to provide accurate information about Selective Service, military law and regulations, and administrative procedures to anyone in need of such service. *These organizations are not officially related or connected to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Please know, they may or may not reflect the perspectives of individuals and or institutions which are a part of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

If you are contemplating this decision, but prefer to talk with someone first, contact Disciples pastor David Edwards. He went through the Selective Service process in 1970 as a conscientious objector, then served two years of civilian alternative service as a CO. Edwards is willing to to offer his knowledge and experience to any young person or adult wrestling with issues of Christian pacifism, military service, and conscientious objection.

To order your free packet, make your request online or download an order form here.

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