Friday, November 28, 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 | | Teens and organizers on cloud nine after live dialogue with Pope Leo | | At a press conference following Pope Leo XIV’s historic “digital visit” with 16,000 young people at the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis, leaders and young participants praised Pope Leo’s warmth, humility, authenticity, and pastoral clarity, highlighting his central message: a personal relationship with Jesus is essential. | | Message from Archbishop Gustavo
García-Siller, MSpS | |
| |  | Next year, the U.S. bishops have decided to consecrated our country to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. One hundred years ago, Pope Pius XI instituted this solemnity to affirm that Christ is King not by force that is imposed, but from the truth that liberates. A few months later, the worst religious persecution in Mexico began. On Nov. 23, 1927, 98 years ago, Father Miguel Agustín Pro, now Blessed, was executed out of hatred for the faith. Facing the firing squad, with open arms, his cry “Long live Christ the King!” reveals the power of the Holy Spirit, who sustained his life and ministry. Also on this date, 15 years ago, I began my ministry as archbishop of San Antonio, by appointment of Pope Benedict XVI. Christ the King does not come to compete with the kingdoms of the world. His Kingdom does not conquer territories, but hearts; it does not impose itself, but proposes; it does not humiliate, but reconciles. The Kingdom expands not when we raise banners, but when we lift up those who have fallen. In the Lord Jesus we find the perfect King, the image of the invisible God, head of the Church, first among the dead, the Risen One. He does not reign from a golden throne, but from the cross. His crown is of thorns, his scepter is forgiveness, his victory is his life given up. Salvation does not come to those who boast of power, but to those who open their hearts. May Our Lady of Guadalupe intercede so that the Lord Jesus may truly reign in your families and in your hearts.
| | Around the Archdiocese of San Antonio | |
Experience the Spirit of Tradition: The Annual Matachine Festival
Sunday, December 7, 1–5 p.m., Mission Concepción
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Join the faithful of San Antonio for a vibrant celebration of faith, history, and culture at the historic Mission Concepción (directions).
The mission grounds and El Camino de San Antonio Missions campus will come alive with the rhythmic drumming and colorful regalia of the Matachines. This ancient tradition creates a “prayer in motion," blending Indigenous and Spanish heritage to honor the Virgin Mary. It serves as a powerful spiritual prelude to the December 12 Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Bring the whole family to witness these breathtaking dance troupes, enjoy live music, savor delicious food from local vendors, and shop for unique fair-trade items. Come experience the living history and spiritual heartbeat of the archdiocese!
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An Afternoon Gathering for Leaders
in Youth and Young Adult Ministry
Saturday, December 13, 12– 5 p.m.,
Our Lady of Perpetual Help-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-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, 2026! 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. More details coming soon!
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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. | |
Southwest Liturgical Conference
Study Week 2026
February 10–13, 2026, Santa Fe, N.M.
| | Early-bird registration is now open for the 64th annual Southwest Liturgical Conference Study Week 2026 in Santa Fe, N.M. This annual gathering offers workshops, liturgical formation, and networking opportunities for parish leaders and liturgy enthusiasts. Secure your spot and be part of this enriching experience. | | Catholic Television of San Antonio | | |
Assumption Seminary again achieved overall victory in the Archbishop’s Cup 2025 over St. Mary’s Seminary of Houston in competition November 14 and 15. Assumption seminarians were victorious in basketball on November 14 at St. Luke’s School and won the soccer game at Our Lady of the Lake University the following day, November 15, taking two of three events.
On this episode of SA News, CTSA covers Archbishop's Cup, as well as an interfaith vigil supporting immigrants, this year’s Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner, and preparations for a winter wonderland in downtown San Antonio.
| | Photo: Veronica Markland, Today's Catholic Newspaper | | Pilgrims from the archdiocese honored the Cristeros Mexican Martyrs, heroic witnesses of faith who gave their lives for Christ the King and Our Lady of Guadalupe, with veneration of 38 first-class relics and a vigil Mass celebrated by Archbishop Gustavo at San Fernando Cathedral November 22. The event was a night filled with prayer, reflection, and thanksgiving for their powerful legacy of love and courage featuring a talk titled, “Who Were the Mexican Martyrs,” presented by Father Rafael Becerra, parochial vicar at the Church of the Holy Spirit. | |
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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