The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) released a statement this week condemning the federal government shutdown and calling it more than just a political problem.

What It Means For You: If you or your family rely on federal programs like Medicaid, food assistance, or housing support, the shutdown could delay or cut off services you need. Federal workers may be sent home without pay or forced to work without getting paid.

What’s Happening: The church’s Office of Public Witness says the shutdown hurts poor and vulnerable people first, not powerful ones. The statement points to recent efforts to cut Medicaid, nutrition assistance, public education funding, and environmental protections.

Who Gets Hurt: The church says millions of people depend on federal programs, including children, seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, low-income families, and communities of color. Federal workers like transportation employees, park rangers, janitors, and food service staff either lose their paychecks or must work without getting paid.

What The Church Wants: The statement calls for the government to reopen immediately and pass a budget that protects vulnerable people. It asks for no cuts to health care, food assistance, housing support, and education. The church says all elected officials, regardless of party, must govern with courage and compassion.

The Big Picture: The Presbyterian Church says budgets are moral documents that show who we value and who we leave behind. The statement quotes the Bible, saying “just as you did it to one of the least of these… you did it to me.” The church has long believed government has a necessary role in protecting the most vulnerable people in society.

The Sources: Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)