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 calls for fasting and prayer for peace today | | Pope Leo XIV has called for a day of fasting and prayer for peace on Friday, August 22, coinciding with the liturgical feast of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary. | | Message from Archbishop Gustavo
García-Siller, MSpS | |
|
God speaks to His people, gathers them into communion, and sends them forth in service. The Lord tells us His Word is not far from us — it is already in our hearts and on our lips. We see that same Word shaping communities united in teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. To listen to God is to live in communion, and to live in communion is to serve. This journey begins and continues in the same way. The early Christian community gathered for the breaking of bread not as a ritual formality, but as the heart of its identity. In every liturgy, Word and Sacrament are inseparable. We first hear the Lord speaking to us — His Word planted deep within — and then we see Him in the breaking of the bread. Live with hearts on fire, eager to announce, “The Lord has truly been raised!” In doing so, you will help the Church remain a community rooted in the Word, nourished by the Eucharist, and sent in mission to the world.
| | | | Around the Archdiocese of San Antonio | |
How to Celebrate Respect Life Month (October) in Your Parish
Thursday, August 28, 7 p.m.
| | |
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is hosting an online workshop to help parish leaders celebrate Respect Life Month in October. Get easy ideas and ready-to-use digital resources during this introductory-level, one-hour webinar.
USCCB staff will walk through this year's new materials, as well as the perennial Respect Life Month action guide. This webinar is perfect for parish staff, ministry leaders, and volunteers, but anyone is welcome to join. Although developed with parishes in mind, the materials are adaptable to a variety of settings, such as Catholic schools, youth ministry, and more.
| |
Remembrance Mass for Those Who Have Died by Suicide
Wednesday, September 10, 6:30 p.m.
| | |
In prayerful observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, Archbishop Gustavo will celebrate a special Mass at Holy Spirit Church (8134 Blanco Rd., San Antonio, TX 78216 - directions) to remember those who have died by suicide and to offer healing and hope to all who carry the pain of their loss.
During the liturgy, all will be invited to place a flower at the altar in honor of a loved one as a sign of entrusting them to the infinite mercy, love, and tenderness of our God. If you have questions or comments, email Carmen Vidal or call (210) 734-1913.
| | |
Care for Creation Mass and Pilgrimage
Sunday, September 14, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
| | |
Mass at Mission Espada followed by a Pilgrimage to Mission San Juan
Join Archbishop Gustavo as we celebrate the Season of Creation with a mariachi Mass at Mission Espada followed by a pilgrimage in support of God’s creation on the river trail to Mission San Juan. During the Season of Creation, we are encouraged to celebrate the gift of creation and act together to care for our common home. The pilgrimage will take us to Mission San Juan where Archbishop Gustavo will provide a special blessing. Bring your water bottles and comfortable shoes as we join in protecting, restoring, and enjoying all of God’s creation.
Transportation sponsored by VIA will be provided from Mission San Juan back to Mission Espada.
| | Catholic Television of San Antonio | | Nurturing students to become servant leaders, community builders, zealous learners, and peacemakers, Catholic schools in the archdiocese began their first day of classes on August 13. The halls were buzzing, backpacks were packed, and hearts are full. From tiny uniforms in pre-kindergarten to leading the way as seniors, they are shining examples of faith, leadership, and school spirit. Here’s to making every moment count in a year filled with joy, friendship, learning, and God’s blessings. | | |
This Summer, the faithful were able to experience the celestial spectacle of the double solar illumination at Mission Concepción on August 15, as attendees witnessed the annual alignment where setting sunlight passes through two windows of the church in a breathtaking display, aligning on the altar. This event marks the Feast of the Assumption, a Marian feast day that Catholics around the world celebrate. It is a fusion of history, theology, and astronomy.
There was a special presentation at as well as Mass directly following the illumination. The doors to the church were closed for a moment of silence. This event was free and open to the public, and the Padre Margil Pilgrimage Center had extended hours for all who wished to visit.
| |
Today's Catholic Newspaper
| | GOOD NEWS! For just $20, subscribers receive 21 issues of Today's Catholic Newspaper delivered straight to their mailbox. | |
2025 Catholic Directory Sale
Buy 1 Get 1 at 50% Off!
| | |
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.
| |
Treasures of the Archdiocese of San Antonio: A Commemorative Book
| | |
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
| | | | |
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. | | | | |
