Friday, December 12, 2025 | | Welcome to The New Messenger, your weekly archdiocesan newsletter featuring messages from Archbishop Gustavo, news briefs, event previews, and updated information. The Archdiocese of San Antonio's weekly newsletter is published every Friday morning. | | The Holy See | Pope Leo XIV | | Pray for Christians in Areas of Conflict | | During the month of December, Pope Leo XIV asks that we pray that Christians living in areas of war or conflict might be seeds of peace, reconciliation, and hope. Watch “The Pope Video” and find a prayer resource online. | | Message from Archbishop Gustavo
García-Siller, MSpS | |
| |  | We are all called to be a sign of new life in the midst of weariness, divisions, or fears, especially as we prepare as a local Church for the great celebration of the 500th anniversary — in 2031 — of the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe. As Pope Leo XIV has said: “The Jubilee is an open door… Jesus is not a wall that separates, but a door that unites us.” This means that the mission of Guadalupe cannot be closed in on itself. On the contrary, it must be a bridge — between generations, between cultures, between those who seek God from different places. Therefore, if we truly want to honor Our Lady, we must ask ourselves: whom are we connecting with? Whom are we including? We need to hear this call especially today: to discern seriously – in prayer, in dialogue, and in the path of concrete actions -- how to pass the baton to the new generations. It is not enough to lament that young people are not coming; it is necessary to open real spaces for them, entrust them with responsibilities, accompany them with patience, and bear witness to the love that Our Lady of Guadalupe conveys. Here the Nican Mopōhua resonates, where the Virgin says: “Go, my youngest son, put forth all your effort. I send you.” And Juan Diego replies: “I will go to fulfill your command, my Lady.” That dialogue remains alive. Today the Virgin Mary looks at us and says: “I truly send you; you are my trusted ambassadors. “And we, like Juan Diego, must respond with humility, but also with determination. As we celebrate Advent and journey toward 2031, let us embrace our mission to be signs of hope, bridges of communion, and sowers of new life, together with — and through — our young people. In this way, the Mother of Heaven will continue to show and give her love through us.
| | Around the Archdiocese of San Antonio | |
Gathering for Leaders in Youth and Young Adult Ministry
Saturday, December 13, noon to 5 p.m., Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Selma
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Ministry is a journey, but it was never meant to be walked alone. If you serve in ministry to youth or young adults, join us at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Selma (directions) for an afternoon gathering dedicated specifically to you. You pour your heart into ministry. It’s time to fill your cup, to step away from the day-to-day routine and reconnect with your "why." This isn't just another meeting; it's a chance to laugh with fellow ministry leaders, swap new ideas and strategies, and look ahead to 2026 with renewed hope and vision. Come for the collaboration, stay for the community.
PLUS: Get a sneak peak of an upcoming weekend of renewal designed specifically with you in mind. Mark your calendars for February 6–8. We are heading to the beautiful Slumber Falls Camp in New Braunfels (directions) for our Youth & Young Adult Leadership Retreat. Get ready for deep reflection, formation, and rest.
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Jubilee of Prisoners:
Bringing Light to the Incarcerated
December 14
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As we celebrate the 2025 Jubilee Year, this month holds a special grace for those on the margins. Sunday, December 14, marks the Jubilee of Prisoners, a day to remember that God’s love is stronger than any chain.
We ask the faithful of the archdiocese to pray for our incarcerated brothers and sisters, specifically the men at Torres State Prison and the Bexar County Jail. In a profound sign of solidarity, Archbishop Gustavo and Auxiliary Bishop Gary Janak will celebrate Mass at these facilities, administering sacraments and bringing the Jubilee message of hope directly to those who need to be reminded that their God-given dignity does not expire behind bars.
Get Involved:
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Celebrate Advent & Christmas with San Antonio Deaf Catholic!
Our Lady of Sorrows Church
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Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church
Looking for a welcoming spiritual community this holiday season? Join us at Our Lady of Sorrows Church (directions) for beautiful ASL-interpreted Masses and festive gatherings designed for Deaf Catholics and their loved ones.
In addition to this liturgy schedule, on Sunday, December 28, after the 11 a.m. Mass, join us in Chavez Hall for our Christmas party and potluck. Bring your favorite dish, enjoy fellowship, and try your luck with the Three Kings Cake — find a baby figure and win a prize. This is more than Mass — it’s community, friendship, and faith celebrated together. Families and friends, spread the word and invite deaf Catholics you know. For more information, email Alejandra B. Lozano, Director of Deaf Ministry.
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Worship on the River—Christmas Concert
Tuesday, December 16, 6:30 p.m., San Fernando Cathedral
| | Mark your calendars for an annual Advent celebration that you don’t want to miss. Archbishop Gustavo and the archdiocesan Young Adult Ministry invite you to a special night with the Blessed Sacrament. Join us for adoration, fellowship, food, and a Christmas concert with your favorite songs of the season. We hope to see you at San Fernando Cathedral (directions). See the Lord’s love through the power of the Eucharist and the beauty of sacred music. Lift your hearts and minds in Jesus Christ to prepare the way for his birth at Christmas. | | Catholic Television of San Antonio | | The Federation of Guadalupanos from across the archdiocese gathered at St. Mark the Evangelist Church December 7 for the 2025 feast day celebration in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Archbishop Gustavo celebrated the Mass with Auxiliary Bishop Gary Janak and Father Dennis Aréchiga, pastor of St. Mark’s, as concelebrants. | | The Catholic Charities Twelfth Annual St. Nicholas Ball was celebrated at the La Cantera Resort and Spa on December 6 with new memories, laughter, and cheers with new and old friends. The event’s chair couple was Cecilia and Frank Herrera, Jr., and presenting sponsors were The Catholic Community Foundation, The Klesse Foundation, and The Malú and Carlos Alvarez Family. Emcee Bill Taylor of KENS 5 News entertained guests throughout the night. | |
Today's Catholic Newspaper
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2025 Catholic Directory
Five Dollar Fall Sale
Limited Quantity
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Five Dollar Fall Directory Sale $5 each!
The directory includes information and Mass schedules for parishes in the archdiocese; updated clergy assignments and a listing of religious orders and organizations; sections dedicated to archdiocesan, educational and health services; and information about archdiocesan priests, deacons, brothers, women religious.
Limited quantity available. To purchase, email Mandy Franco, call (210) 734-1610, or click here.
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Treasures of the Archdiocese of San Antonio: A Commemorative Book
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When you buy the commemorative book Treasures of the Archdiocesan of San Antonio you will also receive the Today's Catholic 150th anniversary magazine as an added bonus.
Don't let this opportunity slip away. Purchase your book now and take home or pass along a piece of history!
- Published by Editions du Signe | ISBN: 978-2-7468-4515-2
- 9.65” x 11.81”
- Soft cover – glossy paper – 440 pages
- Full color throughout
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Seeking to live in sacramental communion with one another, the Archdiocese of San Antonio exists to make disciples and missionaries of Jesus Christ to prepare for the promise of Eternal Life.
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