The Church Ambassador Network of Texas (CAN) continues to build meaningful connections between pastors and governing officials across the Lone Star State.
During this legislative interim, the CAN Texas team has focused on creating space for deeper, more personal conversations about faithful civic engagement, with an approach that reflects the heart of Micah 6:8: “to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
For example, in Corpus Christi, CAN Senior Director for South Texas, Nino Gonzalez, hosted over two dozen pastors and ministry leaders for prayer and relationship-building where new pastors were introduced to the CAN ministry model. This meeting culminated in a Shepherd-to-Shepherd meeting with State Representative Todd Hunter. Pastors experienced the power of a meeting that ministered to the individual lawmaker, applied Scripture to public policy discussions, and invited all in attendance to join in a time of prayer.
Similarly, in Central Texas, CAN Senior Director Doug James facilitated a dynamic meeting with pastors at the district office of State Representative Stan Gerdes. Away from the high-pressure environment of the legislative session, this visit allowed for a wide-ranging conversation that reinforced the profound value of timeless biblical truth to the future of Texas, the need for genuine relationships between pastors and governing officials, and the unifying power of praying together for Texas.
The momentum of April was further highlighted in San Antonio, where Nino Gonzalez organized a pastors’ prayer breakfast and roundtable event. Executive Director, Bryan English, shared the vision of CAN, and invited to engage government in San Antonio and by coming to Austin.
Attendees at the San Antonio event were also introduced to the SA Hope Center—a powerful initiative born from the benevolence ministry of Oak Hills Church. The response from local pastors was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing an immediate desire to bridge the gap between their congregations and community service.
Rounding out the month of April, the CAN team remained active in the field. Bryan, Doug, and Nino were invited to be a part of an event on the south steps of the Texas Capitol with Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Commissioner Audrey O’Neill. DFPS Appreciation Events to honor those serving on the front lines of child welfare were held in San Antonio and Austin. Meanwhile, in Houston, Executive Director Bryan English lent his leadership to the planning committee for the Greater Houston Prayer Breakfast. As in years past, CAN is honored to host pastors and governing officials at this unique gathering, fostering unity across one of the state’s largest metropolitan areas.
As we look ahead, we are looking forward to May 4 and the Governor’s Prayer Breakfast. Last year, our very own Doug James was selected to lead the annual Texas Governor’s Prayer Breakfast, and this will be his first year serving in that role. This year’s event promises to be a significant moment for the network, featuring special guest Jim Daly, President and CEO of Focus on the Family. Mr. Daly will bring his unique insight and encouragement to a room filled with pastors, elected officials, and community leaders from every corner of Texas.
As the Church Ambassador Network continues to gain favor with legislators and agencies, these gatherings stand as a testament to a growing movement. Across the state, pastors are stepping faithfully into the public square—serving as voices of wisdom, prayer, and partnership for the ultimate good of their communities.
