A new statewide partnership between Communio, a national nonprofit focused on strengthening families, and Texas Baptists aims to equip churches to support couples, strengthen marriages and help families thrive.
The initiative comes as nearly half of Texas children grow up with divorced parents and more than four in 10 births occur outside of marriage. Only about 54% of children in the state are raised by their married, biological parents, according to the latest statewide data.
JP De Gance, founder and president of Communio, said churches remain one of the most trusted places for support, yet many are not fully prepared to address relationship challenges. “Through this partnership, we’re making proven tools available to pastors and church leaders who want to better serve couples and help marriages thrive,” he said.
The program will provide churches with data- driven assessments, coaching and relationship programs designed to help couples communicate more effectively, resolve conflict and deepen commitment. Churches that partner with Communio for 12 to 24 months average a 24% increase in attendance, in part because outreach events attract couples and families who may not otherwise engage with the church.
In 2025, more than 56,000 people attended Communio outreach experiences, and more than 82,000 participated in relationship ministry programs. Among couples in the organization’s most intensive programs, 74% reported being very or completely satisfied in their marriages afterward.
Ronny Marriott, senior pastor of First Baptist Richardson and former Texas Baptists president, praised the partnership. “Partnering with Communio is like adding another staff member with extensive resources and experience,” he said. “They helped us assess the needs of our church and community and develop a clear plan to support couples and families.”
De Gance said the effort is part of a broader strategy to address rising family fragmentation and social isolation nationwide. “When marriages are strong, families and communities are stronger. When they struggle, the effects ripple far beyond the home,” he said.
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