Serving the halls
of power — faithfully.
Capitol Culture brings prayer, civility, integrity, and servant leadership into government — proven in one statehouse, built for all fifty. Faithfully present. Institutionally independent. Entirely donor-funded.
who serve our states.
Behind the policies and headlines are people — and that's where we focus our efforts.
Andrew Carlson serves as Chaplain and Minister to the Oklahoma State Legislature. He ministers to both chambers — leading Bible studies for the House and Senate and serving members of both as a pastoral presence, without institutional ties or government funding.
As Executive Director of Capitol Culture, Andrew is spearheading the development of the Chaplain Training Program — building the platform, curriculum, and network to equip chaplains in every state and around the world.
Institutionally independent.
Dr. Joel W. Harder founded Capitol Culture with a vision for transforming civic culture through civility, integrity, and servant leadership. A former Chaplain of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, Joel established the organization's values, relationships, and foundational mission. He now serves on the Capitol Culture board, and the mission continues under the leadership of Executive Director Andrew Carlson.
An experienced leadership consultant and author, Joel is committed to shaping culture among policymakers through non-lobbying, non-political engagement.
Frequently Asked
Who leads Capitol Culture?
Andrew Carlson, M.Div., is Executive Director and Chaplain. He is a former Oklahoma House Chaplain and a Tulsa Police Department chaplain, and he organizes the Oklahoma Governor's Prayer Breakfast. Dr. Joel W. Harder is Capitol Culture's founder and serves on the board.
What does a legislative chaplain do?
A legislative chaplain cares for the people who serve in a statehouse — legislators, their families and staff. That means praying with and for them, being present during session, listening in hard seasons, and pointing people to further help when they need it. A chaplain does not lobby or take sides on legislation. Read more about the role.
Is Capitol Culture partisan? Does it lobby?
No on both. Capitol Culture is non-partisan and non-lobbying. It serves both sides of the aisle and takes no position on legislation.
Is Capitol Culture funded by the government?
No. Capitol Culture is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded entirely by private donors. It receives no government money or resources. Support the work.
Is Capitol Culture independent?
Yes. Capitol Culture is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit and is not part of any other ministry or organization. Its chaplains are spiritually present and institutionally independent.
Does Capitol Culture work outside Oklahoma?
Yes. Capitol Culture began at the Oklahoma State Capitol in 2018 and is now national. Through Vision 2027, it is building training to equip independent chaplains for all 50 state legislatures.
How can I pray for my state's leaders?
Join the Prayer Network and download a free 31-day prayer guide — for Oklahoma, for any state capitol, or for Washington, D.C. Get the prayer guides.
How do I become a legislative chaplain?
Start with the Chaplain Program page, then apply. Capitol Culture trains and equips chaplains; each chaplain serves independently. Apply to become a chaplain.