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 | | Pope’s March prayer intention: ‘For disarmament and peace’ | | Photo: Provided by CNS Rome | | |
After praying the Angelus with visitors gathered in St. Peter's Square March 1, Pope Leo XIV spoke about his growing concern about what is unfolding in the Middle East and Iran. He called on leaders to assume their moral duty "to stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss."
Let us pray that nations move toward effective disarmament, particularly nuclear disarmament, and that world leaders choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy instead of violence.
| | Message from Archbishop Gustavo
García-Siller, MSpS | |
| |  | My dear young friends, a rocking chair moves back and forth… but it goes nowhere. It makes motion, but no progress. Lent asks each of you a simple question: Are you moving, or are you growing? It’s not a matter of physics or biology. Are you moving, or are you growing? As you approach the end of your high school years, you stand at the edge of a new chapter. You can drift back and forth between distractions and dreams … or you can choose a direction. God did not create you to be a rocking chair. He created you for an awesome journey. Here is the deep foundation of your life: God will always love you more than you love Him. Always. When we move away, He remains faithful. When we are confused, He stays steady. Sin is not just breaking a rule; it is rocking back and forth away from love. But repentance is choosing to move forward again. When was the last time you made a good Confession? When did you last receive Holy Communion deeply aware that you are loved without measure? A rocking chair avoids radical choices. It stays safe. But friendship with Jesus moves you forward. It helps you discover not only your path, but what God desires for you. At the altar you see the opposite of a rocking chair. The Eucharist is not motion without direction. It is total self-gift. Jesus does not hold back. When you receive Him with a prepared heart, you are not just performing a ritual. You are receiving strength to move forward — to forgive, to serve, to choose courage over comfort; ultimately, to find a greater purpose. So ask yourselves: How do I want to finish this season of my life? Rocking back and forth … or stepping forward with the Lord Jesus? May the Holy Spirit give you clarity and boldness. And may Our Lady of Guadalupe, who always leads us to her Son, guide your steps and keep you moving toward the wonderful future God has prepared for you.
| | Around the Archdiocese of San Antonio | | Growing Generosity Across the Archdiocese | | |
The Catholic Community Foundation (CCF) exists to help Catholics and people of goodwill turn generosity into lasting impact. As a trusted ministry serving the archdiocese, CCF partners with donors, parishes, schools, and ministries to strengthen the Church for generations to come.
CCF manages endowments, donor-advised funds, scholarships, parish and ministry funds, and charitable gift planning strategies. They help families incorporate faith into their financial stewardship by providing solutions aligned with Catholic values and guided by responsible investment principles. Whether you are supporting your parish, advancing Catholic education, funding seminarians, or establishing a legacy gift in your estate plan, CCF offers expertise and long-term fund management so your generosity can grow and continue serving the mission of the Church.
As we journey through Lent, we invite you to read our latest reflection, “Lenten Giving: Turning Sacrifice into Impact,” which explores how intentional giving can transform both the giver and the community.
If you are considering starting a fund, supporting an existing ministry, or planning a charitable legacy, Catholic Community Foundation would be honored to assist you.
Visit CCF at www.ccftx.org, by email, or call (210) 732-2157. Together, we can build a stronger Church — today and for future generations.
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Worship on the River returns this Lent at San Fernando Cathedral
Tuesday, March 17 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. at San Fernando Cathedral
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Young adults across the archdiocese are invited to an evening of prayer, mercy, and fellowship on San Fernando Cathedral (directions). Worship on the River, now in its second decade, gathers young adults for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and the sacrament of reconciliation from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., followed by a light meal and community fellowship from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
This year, the gathering moves to the spiritual heart of San Antonio and shifts to a quarterly rhythm, making each evening all the more meaningful. Whether you are a college student discerning your path, a young professional navigating career and relationships, or a young parent seeking renewal, this evening was designed with you in mind. Christ's invitation remains as personal as it has ever been: "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28, NABRE). No registration is required. Bring a friend and come as you are. All are welcome.
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FIAT: A Day of Service, Prayer & Discernment for Young Adults
Saturday, April 11 at Assumption Seminary
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What would it look like to say yes to God with your whole life? On the eve of Divine Mercy Sunday, the archdiocese invites young adults ages 18 to 39 to find out. FIAT is a full day of hands-on service, vocational reflection, and prayer, beginning at Assumption Seminary (directions) and continuing at Catholic Charities service sites across the city. The day includes a keynote reflection from Archbishop Gustavo a dedicated Holy Hour of Eucharistic Adoration with reconciliation available, and outdoor fellowship to close. It is free, communal, and designed for young adults at every stage of their faith journey. Mary said yes without seeing the whole picture. Her fiat opened the door for mercy to enter the world. This day is your invitation to do the same. Registration is required by Wednesday, April 1. Space is limited.
| | FIAT is a collaboration of the archdiocesan Office for Young Adult Ministry, the Vocations Office, Assumption Seminary, and Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of San Antonio. | | Is your parish community hosting a fish fry during Lent? Let us know by sending an email to communications@archsa.org with the subject line “Fish Fry.” We will include the information in next week’s newsletter. | | Every Holy Thursday, groups of Catholic faithful embark on the Seven Churches Visitation. In this special tradition, pilgrims adore Christ in seven different altars of repose while praying and reflecting on the passion of Christ. Is your parish open the evening of Holy Thursday? Let us know by sending the details to communications@archsa.org with the subject line “Holy Thursday.” | | Catholic Television of San Antonio | | The archdiocesan Black Catholic Apostolate gathered together with the community at Holy Redeemer Church on February 2 for Mass celebrated by Father Kevin Fausz, CM, pastor, to commemorate Black History Month and celebrate African-American heritage and history. | |
CTSA 24th Annual Leadership Luncheon
Tuesday, April 7, at the Witte Museum - Dawson Family Hall
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Catholic Television of San Antonio invites you to join us as we honor Most Reverend Arturo J. Cepeda, Auxiliary Bishop of San Antonio, and legendary journalist Elizabeth (Liz) Ruiz.
RSVP by March 27
Table sponsorships and individual seats are available.
Parking Information
Enter on Tuleta Drive to Brackenridge Parking Garage at 3501 Avenue B, San Antonio, TX 78209 (directions). Note that there is an elevator available in the garage for your convenience.
Questions/Comments?
Email Janet Mefrige or call (210) 734-1938.
| | Photo: Veronica Markland for Today's Catholic Newspaper | | Seminarians of Assumption Seminary took part in the 2026 Rector’s Cup at the Mission Concepción Sports Complex February 27. The event was a friendly competition among the seminarians themselves, providing an opportunity for sportsmanship, teamwork, and a spirit of fraternity. | |
Today's Catholic Newspaper
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2025 Catholic Directory Five Dollar
Only 5 In Stock!
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Five Dollar 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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