Ash Wednesday in Brazos County: locals advised to worship at home
Typically, worshipers might attend an Ash Wednesday service. In the Brazos Valley, however, both the pandemic and the recent winter storm may prevent people from flocking to their houses of worship.
and last updated 2021-02-16 16:00:03-05
BRAZOS COUNTY, TX â Ash Wednesday will mark the beginning of Lent this week, an important occasion for many followers of the Christian faith.
Typically, worshipers might attend an Ash Wednesday service. In the Brazos Valley, however, both the pandemic and the recent winter storm may prevent people from flocking to their houses of worship. Some churches, like St. Andrewâs Episcopal in Bryan, are considering their options should the roads remain slick with ice.
Brazos Valley pastors offer hope through Christmas sermons amid pandemic
Though the coronavirus pandemic prevented many people from physically attending religious services, church leaders in the Brazos Valley found new ways for their holiday homilies to be delivered.
and last updated 2020-12-26 12:22:08-05
Though the coronavirus pandemic prevented many people from physically attending religious services, church leaders in the Brazos Valley found new ways for their holiday homilies to be delivered.
Clergy members in Aggieland and its surrounding communities werenât quite sure what to expect this season, considering the need for social distancing and other safety precautions at their sanctuaries on Christmas Eve and morning.
Faith communities across the Brazos Valley will have Christmas Eve services today and tonight in a wide range of formats due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Some congregations will have in-person worship gatherings with varied COVID-19 safety protocols in place, with others holding livestreamed or prerecorded worship services. In interviews this week, local faith leaders shared their plans for the holiday services amid the pandemic and spiritual reflections on a Christmas season that is emotionally challenging for many.
The Rev. Daryl Hay, rector of St. Andrewâs Episcopal Church in Bryan, said his congregation has planned three Christmas Eve services. An indoor service will be at 3 p.m. with limited attendance and RSVPs required; at 5 p.m., St. Andrewâs will have a outdoor Eucharist in the parking lot; and a livestreamed virtual service will begin at 7:30 p.m.