Religion in Texas is diverse, with Christianity historically dominant but with substantial Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and nonreligious communities, especially in metropolitan areas.
## Christian traditions - **Evangelical Protestant** traditions have long had a strong presence, including Southern Baptist, nondenominational, Pentecostal, and other churches. - **Roman Catholicism** is especially significant in South Texas, along the border, in historic mission communities, and across major cities. - **Mainline Protestant** and historically Black churches remain important parts of civic and community life. - The state also includes significant **Latter-day Saint**, Orthodox, and other Christian communities.
## Other faith communities - **Jewish communities** are established in cities such as Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. - **Muslim communities** have major mosques and Islamic centers in large metro areas. - **Hindu temples**, **Buddhist centers**, **Sikh gurdwaras**, and interfaith organizations are present across major suburbs and cities. - Immigration has expanded religious diversity significantly in recent decades.
## Notable religious sites and institutions - **San Antonio Missions** are historically central Catholic landmarks. - **Lakewood Church (Houston)** is one of the best-known megachurches in the U.S. - Large cathedrals, seminaries, and faith-based universities are found across the state. - Baylor University in Waco has historic Baptist roots; other faith-linked institutions also operate in Texas.
## Religious life and public culture - Religion plays a visible role in community service, education, social conservatism in some regions, charity work, immigration support, and disaster response. - Patterns vary sharply by region: major urban areas are religiously diverse, while many small towns and suburban belts remain more heavily church-centered.
