WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – Governor Kathy Hochul, at a faith conference, expressed the urgent need for unity in the face of political differences, encouraging religious leaders to enlist faith to mend the divide.

At a 2025 forum on Faith conference, an event that explores faith’s role in how leaders in government, religion, business and education can collaborate to strengthen communities, Hochul spoke… saying we’re in a crisis of faith, but also a crisis of lack of faith in our institutions.

Hochul says that lack of institutional faith is what’s damaging our nation, and asked that those at the forum talk solutions to societal and political problems, and speak out against policies that could hurt New York residents, constituents, and churchgoers.

“You I’m looking to for the leadership to drive us to a better place based on our beliefs, our shared beliefs, that there is a God who’s watching what we do, who’s inspiring us, who gives us the words to live by,” said Hochul, “and I’ll continue as your Governor to do that as well.“

Hochul says she hopes this will start meaningful discussions on how faith can bridge the societal and political gap, and make for a better New York, and a better Country.