"As followers of Jesus, we participate in his ministry of peace and justice. He has called us to find our blessing in making peace and seeking justice… As disciples of Christ, we do not prepare for war, or participate in war or military service. The same Spirit that empowered Jesus also empowers us to love enemies… to practice right relationships… and to resist evil without violence" (Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective, Article 22).

For nearly 500 years, Mennonites as well as other Anabaptists have proclaimed a Christian witness against war and killing. In recent history, Mennonites have repeatedly visited Washington to speak to government regarding matters of conscientious objection. Work on this issue contributed to a decade-long discernment process by denominational bodies and peace committees leading to the establishment of the MCC Washington Office in July 1968. Presently, the office tracks legislative developments regarding conscientious objection, selective service, military recruitment and the draft.

The Washington Office works with National Campaign for a Peace Tax Fund (PTF). The Peace Tax Fund bill has been introduced in every session of Congress since 1972. In recent years, Representatives John Lewis (D-GA) and Jim Leach (R-IA) have reintroduced the Religious Freedom Peace Tax Fund Act, usually around tax day on April 15. This bill would amend the tax code to allow conscientious objectors to designate income, estate and gift tax payments for nonmilitary purposes only. This allows for full payment of taxes without violating deeply held religious or ethical convictions.

The Washington Office also works on an annual lobby and briefing day, jointly sponsored by Center on Conscience & War (CCW) and PTF, held every May in Washington, D.C. It is an effort to educate Congress about conscientious objection and to discourage a military draft. Along with CCW, we periodically visit the Selective Service System to discuss policy developments regarding registration and conscientious objection.

Right now there is no military draft. Reinstatement would require legislation by Congress, signed into law by the president. Most government and military leaders have insisted that they prefer a voluntary military. However, some policymakers have recently proposed increasing troop levels, establishing mandatory public service and expanding recruitment (even by giving recruiters access to public school students' contact information). These proposals particularly affect urban and rural youth with low income and little opportunity. We must remain vigilant, committed and active to pursue peacemaking in our world.