More than 150 communicators from across the country gathered in San Diego for Anchored in Hope, a four-day conference focused on learning, collaboration, and a shared commitment to strengthening how the Church tells its story.
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas emerged as a clear leader—not only through its presence in key learning spaces, including a cross-border visit to Tijuana focused on migrant communities—but also through its strong showing at the 2026 Polly Bond Awards for Excellence in Communications.
The Diocese received two major honors: an Award of Excellence for its Spanish-language website, recognized for advancing accessibility and inclusion, and an Award of Merit for the social media video Hispanic Heritage Voices: Bishop Héctor Monterroso, a piece that amplifies Hispanic leadership and storytelling within the Church.
Across the state, Texas communicators were widely recognized. The Seminary of the Southwest received an Award of Merit for its 2025 Advent Meditations and Prayers Booklet. Christ Church Cathedral in Houston received an Award of Excellence for its Every Member Canvass Campaign, while also earning an Award of Merit for its Prayer Vigil at the Federal Detention Center social media post. In Austin, The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd was honored in multiple design categories, including an Award of Excellence for its Women of Good Shepherd Retreat Guidebook and additional recognition for layout work.
Further honors across Texas included St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Kerrville, which received awards in both photography and print publication, and The Church of St. John the Divine in Houston, recognized with an Award of Merit in graphic design.
Together, these recognitions highlight the depth of talent across Texas and the growing impact of communicators who are shaping how the Church tells its story—through creativity, clarity, and a deep commitment to community.
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas celebrates all those recognized this year, honoring their work as a powerful reminder that meaningful communication can inspire, connect, and transform.
