At first, the community’s religious identity was almost exclusively Catholic. Texas was part of New Spain and then of independent Mexico. Even today, Catholics account for an estimated 61 percent of San Antonio’s population; but the city is now a vibrant, diverse and friendly religious community where Catholics, Protestants, Jews, Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, Buddhists and others pray together on special occasions and maintain a dialogue over common concerns.

With 1,200 churches, the community thrives on a rich legacy of interfaithcooperation. In fact, the city’s ecumenical spirit brought Pope John Paul II hiswarmest interfaith welcome of all during his 1987 U.S. tour. More than a million people cheered him here, and 300,000 attended his Mass — the Southwest’s largest gathering ever for one event.

Churches offering televised Sundayworship include The Cathedral, Alamo City Christian Fellowship, Castle Hills First Baptist, Cornerstone, San Antonio First Baptist and World of Pentecost churches.

For a complete listing of places to worship or for more information, call the San Antonio Community of Churches at (210) 733-9159.

Volunteering in San Antonio
The United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County funds 120 programs at 70 agencies. These programs help the disabled and elderly, provide affordable child care, strengthen families and reduce family violence, improve mental and physical health, and invest in children and youth. The United Way offers a thorough, timely listing of volunteer opportunities across the community. To check it out, call the Volunteer Center of The United Way at (210) 352-7097, or go to www.unitedwaysatx.org.

A variety of volunteer opportunities and contact information is also available online at www.mysanantonio.com.