KING AND PRIEST ~ JOSIAH AND HILKIAH

As I think about The Church Ambassador Network of Texas (TXCAN), building relationships with our legislators and other elected officials over time, I am reminded of Josiah, the King and Hilkiah, the high priest. Josiah had given the orders to repair the temple of God. As they were bringing out the money in the temple to pay those repairing it, Hilkiah, the priest found the Book of the Law of the Lord that had been given to Moses.

Shaphan the secretary, read the book in the presence of the King. When the King heard the words of the Law, he tore his robes. He gave orders to Hilkiah, Shaphan and several other Levites, to “Go and inquire of the Lord for me…”

The relationships between shepherds of the church and shepherds of government are critical as we seek to help them be “ministers for good”. (Romans 13:4) Please be praying on how you can get involved in this ministry. During the next special session in October, the Church Ambassador Network of Texas will be inviting pastors to Austin. After the special session, we will be reaching out to pastors to join us to visit their district offices. Please let us know if you are interested in making a trip with us to the Texas Capitol during this time period.

BLESSINGS,
Pastor Tovar & Juda

New laws going into effect on September 1, 2023.

SB 763 allows public schools to employ or accept chaplains as volunteers.

If that is something you are interested in check out their website. There is a certification process you need to go through. Already one of our pastors has started the process. Your first conversation is with your Superintendent of Schools. Senator Middleton’s office would also be a great resource; call (512) 463-0111.

HB 900 regulates library materials that are sold to or included in public school libraries.

The bill prevents inappropriate books from getting to the library by using a coding system and requires school libraries to post inappropriate books on the shelf on the school or school districts website. Read about a case where books are being pulled off in Ft. Worth here.

Other new laws going into effect September 1, 2023. Knowing them will help you as you minister in your community.

SB 14 bans irreversible gender transition surgeries and puberty blockers on minors!

SB 15 bans men from competing in women’s sports at the collegiate level!

SB 12 restricts and regulates sexually-oriented performances on public property or in the presence of an individual younger than 18 years of age!

SB 24 ensures Pregnancy Resource Centers can continue to support mothers and babies keeping Texas Pro-Life!

HB 2012 is effective immediately and allows the display of the national motto in public school and institutions of higher education classrooms. In God We Trust!