The Peace Polls: Churches open their doors as prayers for unity crescendo across party lines

Phoenix, Arizona: As Arizona gears up for Election Day, a community group in the Valley is taking a unique approach to promote unity and peace, regardless of the election's outcome. At Sun City Christian Church, members gathered on Monday for a prayer vigil, seeking calmness and goodwill during a tense political season.

As America goes to the polls today, for some voters there's something equally as important as voting, and that's praying for peace.

Inside Sun City Christian Church, congregants spent half-an-hour in quiet prayer, focusing on mutual respect and non-violence. Participants expressed hope for a smooth and respectful election process, free from conflict. “I'm fearful either way it goes,” Loni, a Glendale resident told ABC15. “We were once a nation of immigrants who came together—can we get that way again?”

In the days leading up to the election, churches across Arizona have opened their doors to host similar prayer vigils. Christian leaders from various congregations have encouraged Arizonans to come together under the unifying message of 'Love Your Neighbor', emphasizing a preference for peace over partisan loyalties.

Phoenix resident Cathy Bennett told ABC15: "It’s peace over party. I feel like peace is more important than even the party I'm with."

Rev. Dr. Jay Hartley, one of the event organizers, shared the inspiration behind the gatherings. Recently returned from Northern Ireland, he witnessed how faith leaders there found that staying silent during times of civil unrest only deepened divisions.

"We all believe that every single person is a child of God and loved by God, no matter what," Dr. Hartley said. "If you truly hear that message, you can’t be violent toward a brother or sister."