As early voting continues, more than 2,000 churches across Texas have committed to participating in a statewide effort to encourage voter turnout during the 2026 midterm elections, according to organizers.
The initiative, called “Black Out Sunday,” encourages eligible voters to research candidates and issues, make a voting plan and help others get to the polls on Sunday, Oct. 25.
Organized by the African American Pastors Coalition of North Texas through its IMPACT TEXAS 2026 initiative, the effort has surpassed its original goal of recruiting 1,000 churches, according to the coalition.
The initiative builds on existing “Souls to the Polls” efforts, in which churches encourage congregants to vote following Sunday services.
“We know how to prepare for Black Friday,” said the Rev. Richie Butler, president-elect of the coalition and senior pastor of St. Luke Community United Methodist Church in Dallas. “We study the ads, decide what matters most, make a plan and show up ready to shop.”
“Black Out Sunday asks us to prepare just as seriously for something far more consequential: the future of our families and communities,” Butler added.
What is happening in Dallas?
At St. Luke Community United Methodist Church, congregants are expected to gather following Sunday worship for a parking-lot celebration featuring a DJ before heading to the polls.
Church representatives also plan to be present at the nearby Samuell Grand Recreation Center, an early-voting location.
The coalition says participating churches across Texas may organize transportation, distribute polling information and encourage members to vote together.
Butler emphasized that the initiative is nonpartisan and meant to complement, rather than replace, existing voter outreach efforts.
“This is not a new name for Souls to the Polls, and it is not a substitute for the important work churches and community organizations are already doing,” Butler said. “It is an invitation to build on that work, widen the circle and make voter participation part of the culture of every congregation—not only for one Sunday, but for every election.”
The Dallas event is planned for Sunday, Oct. 25, after worship at St. Luke Community United Methodist Church, located at 5710 E. R.L. Thornton Freeway.
Early voting in Texas continues through Friday, Oct. 30, ahead of Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Voters can check polling locations and hours through their county elections office.
