The 2025 Legislative Session is officially underway, and the Church Ambassador Network of Florida has pastors actively engaged in state government. The Church of Florida is present and involved, bringing faith into the heart of civic leadership.
The first day of the Legislative Session, known as Organization Day, is a special occasion where legislators are joined by their spouses, families, and friends to celebrate the start of a new session. During this time, the Governor shares his vision for Florida, and both legislative chambers prepare to shape public policy.
Historically, Organization Day has posed challenges for the Florida Capitol Project, as the day’s special events often leave little room to connect with representatives and senators. The Florida Capitol Project exists to engage civic officials across all branches of government—through prayer, partnership opportunities, and meaningful discussions on public policy. To better align with the day’s activities rather than disrupt them, we introduced a new initiative: “Gather at the Gate.”
Originally envisioned as a small gathering of pastors in the Capitol courtyard for prayer and intercession over the legislative session, Gather at the Gate quickly gained momentum. What began as a simple idea grew into a significant event, with approximately 50 participants joining together on the historic Capitol steps and courtyard for an hour of worship and prayer.
In attendance were pastors, state representatives, legislative aides, lobbyists, and members of the Governor’s Faith and Community Office. Both pastors and government officials led prayers during this meaningful time, helping foster divine connections that will shape this session. Given its profound impact, Gather at the Gate is likely to become an annual tradition preceding each legislative session.
This week, The CAN Network also launched an exciting Bible distribution initiative made possible by a generous donor. Our goal is to personally deliver 160 customized Bibles—one for each legislator this session. Each Bible is personalized with the recipient’s name, district, and the official seal of Florida, serving as a memento of their service to the state. It is our hope and prayer that this gift will remind our elected officials that their lives, legislative duties, and districts flourish best when guided by the wisdom of Scripture. We look forward to distributing these Bibles throughout the session.
Additionally, as the Executive Director of the CAN Network, I am honored to serve on the Governor’s Faith and Community Advisory Board. This week, we held one of our quarterly meetings, bringing together an incredible cross-section of faith leaders from across Florida. The board exists to hear directly from the Governor about his vision for faith-based partnerships that serve the residents of Florida. It also provides a platform for faith leaders to offer feedback, voice concerns, and present ideas for collaboration. The Church Ambassador Network is privileged to be part of this ongoing dialogue between faith and government.
As I close this update, I want to extend an invitation to pastors—if you would like to be part of the Florida Capitol Project, I encourage you to reach out and schedule a visit. You can find all the details, including available dates, on our website: https://flchurchambassadornetwork.org. The website also offers insights into what an FCP tour entails and the ministry philosophy behind it. Hundreds of pastors have already participated, and there is still room in 2025!
Finally, I ask you to consider making a financial contribution to Florida Family Voice, which supports and funds the work of the Church Ambassador Network. Your generosity enables us to provide these impactful opportunities for Florida pastors—strengthening spiritual leadership within government. Our ability to expand ministry outreach to civic leaders depends on the support of partners like you. Will you join us in this mission? I pray you will.
Thank you for your continued prayers for our team in Tallahassee. The next nine weeks will be busy, but we are eager to see how God moves!
Kevin Baird, D.Min.
Executive Director, Church Ambassador Network of Florida