Friday, February 27, 2026 | | 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 Leo XIV says freedom is fulfilled by saying yes to God | | CNA — Pope Leo XIV on February 22 visited Rome’s Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in the central Castro Pretorio neighborhood, steps from Termini station, telling parishioners that true freedom “is fulfilled by saying yes to God” and urging the community to be a visible sign of charity in an area marked by sharp social contrasts. The visit was part of the pope’s Lenten round of pastoral stops at parishes across Rome. | | Message from Archbishop Gustavo
García-Siller, MSpS | | |
God takes the initiative. He bends down. He speaks. His Word is not a sound; it is like a seed. And that seed is the Lord Jesus. Beneath the surface, the Holy Spirit is already at work. If we allow the rain to soak the soil, the harvest will come. However, we must remain aware that we have been called to be sowers, not necessarily harvesters. Jesus then teaches us how to stand in that rain. Notice the image: rain over dry land. You do not have to force the rain. You prepare the soil. Lent invites us to clear the stones, to remove resentment, to soften what has become hard. Seek spiritual direction. Become exercised masters of prayer. Your presence becomes calm. Your words carry hope. Your decisions reflect the Kingdom for which we pray in every Eucharist. Brothers and sisters, let the rain fall. Let it fall on your fatigue, your dreams, your mission. Trust that the Father knows. Trust that the seed is alive.
| | Around the Archdiocese of San Antonio | |
Hundredfold Follow-Up Workshop for Lay Vocation Promoters
Saturday, March 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at St. Matthew Church
| | In collaboration with Vocation Ministry, San Antonio Vocations invites Lay Vocation Promoters to this free workshop at St. Matthew Church (directions) to strengthen and sustain a culture of Vocations. The English session will be presented by Bob McMorrow, Vocation Strategy Coach, and the Spanish session will be presented by Leticia Ramirez. Read about the presenters on the Vocation Ministry website. This workshop will help you build and sustain a parish vocation, ministry, overcome common challenges confidently, and plan meaningful vocation efforts for the year. Registration is free and should be completed by priests for four parishioners of their choice. | |
31st Annual People’s Law School
Sunday, March 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at St. Mary’s University School of Law, Law Classrooms Building
| | The People’s Law School is an annual event sponsored by the San Antonio Bar Foundation and St. Mary’s University School of Law (directions). Qualified local attorneys present on legal considerations for a variety of topics including family, wills, financial crimes, auto accidents, immigration, guardianships, and landlord/tenant law. This event is free and registration is not required. For more information about People’s Law School, visit the website or email Phil Davies, J.D. | | Catholic Television of San Antonio | | Photo: Veronica Markland for Today's Catholic Newspaper | | The annual 40 Cans for Lent and 40 Days of Service kickoff, a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community, was held February 19. This Lent season, Catholic Charities encourages the community to unite in support of those who are most vulnerable by donating canned goods or volunteering. Each can represents the spirit of kindness, showing that even the smallest sacrifice can lead to significant change. Every volunteer has the power to make a positive impact on the world around us, helping to bring about the change we wish to see. Whether you donate one can or 40, one hour or 40, your generosity helps provide meals, offer support, and share hope with families in the community. | |
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.
Table sponsorships and individual seats are available. Please RSVP by March 27.
Parking Information
Please enter on Tuleta Drive to Brackenridge Parking Garage at 3501 Avenue B, San Antonio, TX 78209 (directions). Please note that there is an elevator available in the garage for your convenience.
Questions/Comments?
Email Janet Mefrige or call (210) 734-1938.
| | The first Stations of the Cross of the Lenten season at San Fernando Cathedral was led by Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, MSpS, on February 20. The archbishop will lead the Stations each Friday in Lent — except on Good Friday — at 7:30 a.m. at the cathedral at 119 Main Plaza. | |
Today's Catholic Newspaper
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2025 Catholic Directory Five Dollar
Only a few left
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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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