FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Bells Across North Carolina to Ring Weekly for Peace Ahead of Election Day
Faith communities, families, and neighbors join weekly bell ringing through the Monday before Election Day.
NORTH CAROLINA – Bells will ring across North Carolina every Monday evening this fall as faith communities, families, organizations, and neighbors join A Peals for Peace, a growing statewide witness for peace and the dignity of every human being.
What began in July as a monthly coordinated bell ringing is now expanding into a weekly statewide practice. Beginning Monday, September 7, participants will ring bells every Monday from 6:00 to 6:15 p.m. through Monday, November 2, the final Monday before Election Day.
Since the first coordinated July ringing, communities across the state have joined the call, using church bells, handbells, chimes, and other bells to create a shared, audible witness for peace.
Now, as the election season intensifies, A Peals for Peace is inviting even more communities to make that witness weekly.
Members of the press are invited to attend the next bell ringing on Monday, September 7, at 6:00 p.m. at Trinity Holy Episcopal Church, 607 N. Greene St., Greensboro, NC. Bill Drake, a Greensboro leader and participant in A Peals for Peace, will be available to speak with members of the media.
“Longfellow said, “Music is the universal language of mankind.” These bells speak every language sending hope for peace out into the world. I am thankful to have this powerful elegant way to join voices with others in a prayer for peace everywhere. Join the growing numbers in Ringing Bells for Peace and the dignity of every Human being.” said by Bill Drake, Co-Organizer of A Peals for Peace, Greensboro, NC
“For the past three months, we’ve gathered each Monday to ring our bells for peace. What began with a few voices has steadily grown, bringing more people and communities together each week in a shared hope for peace! Come join us and make these joyful noises for Peace” said John Canning, Co-Organizer of A Peals for Peace, Apex, NC.
A growing statewide witness
A Peals for Peace began in the spring with conversations among clergy and lay leaders searching for a faithful, public witness that could rise above political division. The answer was intentionally simple: ring bells, pray for peace and affirm the God given worth of every person.
The effort is faith-rooted but open to everyone. Churches, synagogues, mosques, temples and other places of worship are invited to participate, along with families, neighborhood groups, organizations and individuals. Ring a church bell, handbell, chime or any bell available, or simply pause at 6:00 p.m. for prayer and reflection.
As the weekly effort begins in September, communities across North Carolina are invited to join the sound each Monday evening leading up to Election Day.
Join the peal:
The North Carolina Council of Churches is helping connect participating communities and share the growing effort across the state.
Learn more and participate:
ncchurches.org/a-peals-for-
When asked why the bells are ringing, the answer is simple:
“For peace; and for the dignity of every human being.”
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