CO Resources - Central Plains Mennonite Conference

Resources on Conscientious Objection

As a historic peace church, Mennonites have a long tradition of conscientious objection to military service. Before World War II, leaders of peace churches secured legal exemption from military service for anyone who "by reason of religious training and belief is conscientiously opposed to participation in war in any form."

Here are resources for churches to help their youth think through their beliefs on military service and help them prepare for the possibility of a draft. Central Plains Mennonite Conference congregations who would like paper copies of these resources may contact Shana Boshart at shanaboshart @centralplainsmc.org.

Think in terms of leading a study on conscientious objection every two years, so that youth are able to study the subject twice during their high school years.

For the Youth
Make a copy of each of the following for each youth.

Letter to Central Plains Youth
An introduction to the CO File

How to Create a CO File
easy instructions

Christian Peacemaker Registration Form
a short version just for CPMC youth; they can type directly into this Word doc

Formulario de Inscripcion como Pacificador
the form above in Spanish. Youth fill out the last two pages.

For youth considering enlistment:

Do You Know Enough to Enlist?

Tienes Suficiente Informacion Para Registrarte?

For the Leaders
Lead the 5-session Bible study, Decide for Peace.

The video, The Good War and Those Who Refused to Fight It, tells stories of conscientious objectors and includes a CO Handbook and Guide to the Draft. It would go well with the Bible study above.

Below are additional items that will be helpful as you educate youth on conscientious objection.

Registration and Basic Draft Information

Who is a CO?
an explanation of draft law

Christian Peacemaker Registration Form
MCC's longer version with commentary

Mennonite Central Committee
resources on conscientious objection

Center on Conscience and War

Viviendo la Paz

Should I register?

Page last modified 01/04/2012