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. | | In observance of Independence Day, the Pastoral Ministry Center is closed today, Friday, July 4. | | The Holy See | Pope Leo XIV | |
Charismatic renewal leader confident
Pope Leo XIV will affirm movement
status in Church
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A leader of the Catholic charismatic renewal said he believes that charismatics will enjoy harmonious relations with Pope Leo XIV following a mixed experience with Pope Francis, whose efforts to centralize the grassroots movement at the Vatican raised concerns among some members.
“I truly believe Pope Leo will be very supportive of the renewal and of other lay movements,” said Shayne Bennett, the director of mission and faith formation at the Holy Spirit Seminary in Brisbane, Australia. “What we do know about him was that he was supportive of the charismatic renewal in his own diocese back in Peru.”
| | Message from Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, MSpS | |
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Saint Junípero Serra knew hardship on the frontier. He faced unknown seas and unfamiliar peoples with courage born of faith. His motto, “Siempre adelante!” — “keep moving forward” — echoes this trust. He learned native languages, embraced new cultures, and defended indigenous dignity, all because he believed God’s Kingdom needed his small yet bold steps. He did not look back. He forged ahead in hope, even amid misunderstanding and hardship. So too are we called to press on, guided by the Holy Spirit, confident that no storm can undo the work of God in Christ. May St. Junípero Serra’s life inspire us to leave behind the ash of guilt and fear, to embrace the Gospel with fresh zeal, and to navigate every trial with unwavering faith. And to the Virgin of Guadalupe, mighty protector of the oppressed, we entrust our journey: Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us.
| | | | Around the Archdiocese of San Antonio | | |
Pray for Priests and their
Communities in Transition July 5-6
| | On July 1, some of our priests transitioned to new parishes. This period of transition will be a time for growth rooted in the call to serve God’s people. Let us pray for the priests’ physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being, and welcome them into our communities with joy. Join the entire archdiocese this weekend, July 5-6, as we pray for all newly assigned priests and the communities they have been called to serve. | | |
Come & See:
Free event for high school students
Saturday, July 12 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
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San Antonio Vocations invites high school students to come, see, and live the life of a seminarian at Assumption Seminary (2600 West Woodlawn Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78228 – directions).
Don’t be afraid to embrace your vocation. For more information call (210) 735-0553 or email vocations@archsa.org.
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Cristero Mexican Martyr Mass & Talk
Sunday, July 13 from noon to 3 p.m.
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The Archdiocese of San Antonio invites us to the celebration of the 137th anniversary of the birth of Blessed Anacleto González Flores, which will be held at St. Andrew Church in Pleasanton (626 Market St., Pleasanton, TX 78064 – directions).
The celebration will include Mass followed by a reflection, a book presentation, and veneration of the first-degree relics of Blessed Anacleto González Flores.
As part of the Jubilee Year festivities, participating in this initiative while observing the Church’s teachings creates an opportunity to obtain a plenary indulgence. This celebration will be bilingual. See the schedule and more information online.
| | Summer Events for College Students continue through the end of July! | | |
College students from around the city enjoyed watching "Father Stu" on the grounds of the Pastoral Ministry center on June 19. Have you had the chance to join archdiocesan Campus Ministry for any of the summer events? If not, there’s still time!
Every Tuesday and Wednesday, swing by the St. Anthony Catholic Student Center (directions) for Adoration and confession at 5 p.m., followed by Mass at 6 p.m. It’s the perfect midweek reset for your soul.
Each Thursday brings a new social adventure. From baseball games to bonfires, hiking to movie nights—there’s something for everyone! Let’s make this summer one to remember, together in faith and fellowship!
For more information, join our GroupMe.
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Discover San Antonio's Sacred Spaces
with your smartphone:
Spotlight on Mission San José
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The new Sacred Space Virtual Tour from El Camino de San Antonio Missions is narrated by KENS 5 anchor and reporter Alicia Neaves. The Tour pairs engaging commentary with on-screen images accessible via QR code on the pilgrim-passport stamp stand inside (or just outside) each church. Often called the “Queen of the Missions,” Mission San José offers ornate stonework and a beautiful sacristy.
Discover the legendary Rose Window — it is widely considered one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in North America. The sacristy features an ornately carved lavabo, where water flowed from a cherub’s mouth into a bowl with a carved shell feature.
To experience the full tour, visit Mission San José today. Click here for more information on this mission.
| | Catholic Television of San Antonio | | |
Go “Back to the Roots” of Your Faith
with Father Krikor
Online Video Series
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Discover the beauty and depth of the Catholic faith with Back to the Roots, a free, powerful, and accessible video series hosted by Father Krikor Chahin, JCD — professor, author, homilist, and judicial vicar for the archdiocese.
With each episode just under 15 minutes, Father Krikor takes viewers on a rich journey through the essential teachings of the Church, exploring their foundations in Scripture and Tradition. Whether you're a lifelong Catholic, a recent convert, or just curious about the faith, these short, compelling videos offer a fresh opportunity to deepen your relationship with Christ.
The video series follows the structure of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, making it a perfect companion to your faith journey. Best of all, every episode is available in both English and Spanish. Watch on CTSA YouTube, online, or on the CTSA app on Google Play or the App Store.
| | An Interview with Executive Director Crista Balli | | |
Celebrating 46 years of powerful Latino storytelling, CineFestival is the nation’s longest-running Latino film festival returns to the historic Guadalupe Theater with fresh voices, bold stories, and community at its heart.
Led by Executive Director Cristina Balli, this year’s CineFestival continues to uplift local talent and showcase films that reflect the depth and diversity of our cultura. Watch this special moment from the festival and experience the spirit of CineFestival.
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Today's Catholic Newspaper
| | GOOD NEWS! For just $20, subscribers receive 22 issues of Today's Catholic Newspaper delivered straight to their mailbox. | | An incredible morning celebrating dads took place recently at the Catholic Charities Field Day with Fathers event on June 28. From fun craft projects to interactive field day activities, smiles were ear to ear all day. The Supporting Dads program is a free, group-based, 12-week class for fathers who want to become more active, engaged dads. Classes include what it means to be a man, productive communication, discipline techniques, managing emotions, case management, and basic needs assistance for the baby. If you or someone you know are interested in more information, visit the website or call (210) 226-6178. | | 2025 Catholic Directory Summer Special | | |
The BOGO sale will continue through the end of summer! 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.
To purchase, click here or contact Mandy Franco at (210) 734-1610 or email mandy.franco@archsa.org.
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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.
| | | | | Don't miss out on the latest news and updates! Visit our Linktree profile now to subscribe to Today's Catholic Newspaper, sign up for The New Messenger, and explore archsa.org. Join our community and stay informed. | | | Copyright © 2025 Archdiocese of San Antonio. All rights reserved. | | | | |
