When Faith Crosses Party Lines: A Story of Salvation and Friendship in the Vermont State Capitol
Serving in the Vermont State House can be spiritually isolating for legislators. Former Representatives Vicki Strong (Republican) and Tom Bock (Democrat) shared how Capitol Ministries brought encouragement, fellowship, and the life-changing truth of God’s Word into an environment often resistant to faith—one in which cross-party friendships are uncommon.
Vicki, a Gold Star mother and six-term legislator, entered the State House unsure how she could live out her faith in what she described as “rocky spiritual soil.” She found little spiritual support until Capitol Ministries began weekly Bible studies.
“Once a week we’d pray and hear God’s word. I’d continue to walk in that state house and say, “Lord, I’m encouraged through the ministry of Capitol Ministries. Just give me boldness.”
Tom, who had been away from church for 50 years, initially had no interest in Christianity. Yet through conversations with Vicki—despite their political differences—and through CapMin’s presence in the Capitol, God began working in his heart. Over time, he came to faith in Christ.
“I am grateful to Capitol Ministries. It was just such a breath of fresh air,” he said. “We had great conversation and … read the Scriptures. We never wanted to leave. It was a great experience,” Tom shared.
Today, Pastor Aaron Clark leads the weekly Bible study for Vermont legislators, continuing the ministry begun by Pastor Rosaire Bisson.
Pastor Clark first volunteered with Capitol Ministries in 2022 and assumed leadership of the study in 2024. His passion is to bring the light of Christ into the lives of public servants who often face intense pressure and limited spiritual support.
“I long to see legislators move from darkness to light—to love the Lord and love His law,” Pastor Clark said.
Even in one of the least religious states in the nation, Capitol Ministries is witnessing God transform hearts and strengthen believers to serve faithfully—across party lines.
Vicki reflected that, despite twelve years of legislative victories, nothing compared to the day she led Tom to Christ and watched his life change.
“When you lead someone to Christ in that kind of setting, it just is the most joyful thing. … I think that’s the only way our state—our politics—will change is if we have legislators who know the Creator first of all and acknowledge our need for Him and then make laws based on that.”
Through Pastor Clark’s leadership and the faithful presence of Capitol Ministries, the Gospel continues to take root even in Montpelier’s rocky soil.
If you would like to support Pastor Clark and Capitol Ministries Vermont, learn more here.
Do you sense a call from God to evangelize, disciple, and teach the Word of God to public servants in your community? → Start Here!