Story perspectives

Severe Winter Weather Forces Churches to Go Virtual

1/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Severe winter weather is forcing Central Texas churches to cancel in-person services or shift online.
In Central Texas, Anderson Chapel AME and Bethel Church have closures for January 25.
In Lubbock, Winter Storm Fern prompted Faith Church and First United Methodist Church to hold online services.
Western North Carolina churches report numerous cancellations.
In Central Mississippi, Pinelake Church and Christ United Jackson shifted to virtual services due to hazardous conditions.

History

Historical Context

In February 2021, Winter Storm Uri struck Texas, causing widespread power outages for over 4 million residents and resulting in at least 246 deaths. This storm echoed the 2011 Groundhog Day blizzard, which also led to significant blackouts and highlighted Texas's unpreparedness for extreme winter weather. The crisis spurred discussions on infrastructure resilience and emergency preparedness in the face of climate change.

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Story summary

Severe winter weather is forcing Central Texas churches to cancel in-person services or shift online.
In Central Texas, Anderson Chapel AME and Bethel Church have closures for January 25.
In Lubbock, Winter Storm Fern prompted Faith Church and First United Methodist Church to hold online services.
Western North Carolina churches report numerous cancellations.
In Central Mississippi, Pinelake Church and Christ United Jackson shifted to virtual services due to hazardous conditions.

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