Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God (Romans 13:1, NIV).

There is so much going on in the United States today that begs the attention of missions and ministries. Crime is rampant in many of the cities where we work. The cost of living continues to drive upward, while necessities become scarcer. Laws are becoming increasingly accommodating toward people who choose the streets. Immigrants and refugees continue to pour into the country, eager for a better life, and, with a presidential election in 2024, political posturing and rhetoric is already reaching a fever pitch.

These are great challenges before us, but there are also opportunities. God, in His sovereignty, has chosen to give us an earthly authority that shapes, to some degree, what opportunities are available and how we pursue them.

This is not a time to shrink away, but to fully and proactively engage with government leaders, regardless of political leanings. Citygate Network is assembling a cast of experts, guides, and statesmen who stand ready to help us navigate the realities of 2023 and beyond.

After two years of virtual DC events, we're planning an in-person DC Forum for March 27 - 29, 2023. While online meetings can be effective, there's nothing like shaking a lawmaker’s hand, sitting across the table in his or her office in the nation's capital, telling them about the work you're doing, and describing how they can help.

The 2023 DC Forum will be a robust combination of legislative training, engagement opportunities, and rich resources. We hope you'll join us March 27 - 29, 2023; it promises to be a special event.