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.

Friday, May 2, 2025

Conclave to elect next pope will begin May 7

Photo: Daniel Ibañez/CNA

Cardinals set May 7 for start of the conclave amidst discussions on challenges facing the church and qualities needed in next pope.


For live updates on of the latest news and information on the papal transition, visit the CNA website.

Message from Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, MSpS

Most Rev. Gustavo García-Siller, MSpS

We continue to pray for the soul of our late Holy Father, giving thanks for his life and ministry, and we pray for the cardinals, as they meet in the Conclave, which will begin May 7. Pope Francis asked us always to pray for him — and so we do and trust the Holy Spirit to guide the Church in this time of transition. The late pope said, “In Jesus, hope is always possible. He also sustains our hope as we journey towards him in unity.” Like the first believers, we too are called to share what we have and to build community. We fix our gaze on Jesus — on His mercy, His forgiveness, His faithfulness. Let His Word shape our thoughts and deeds. When we look to Christ, everything else falls into place. Let us ask that we may be born again in the Holy Spirit. Let us pray for Pope Francis, that he may rest in peace. Let us pray for the College of Cardinals, that the Spirit may guide their decisions. And, strengthened by the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, let us live in unity and generosity, bearing bold witness to the risen Lord so that all who believe in Him may have eternal life.

Daily Prayer to the Holy Spirit for the Conclave and the Election of the New Pope (PDF)
Send a Prayer Intention

Around the Archdiocese of San Antonio

Join the Archdiocesan Choir!

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The Archdiocese of San Antonio invites singers from across our local Church to consider joining the Archdiocesan Choir, a talented group of singers and musicians who provide music for liturgies celebrated by Archbishop Gustavo. If you have a love for sacred music and a heart for service, this is an excellent opportunity to lift your voice in praise and contribute to the prayerful beauty of our most important celebrations. While some music-reading ability is helpful due to limited rehearsal time, interested singers must be able to match pitch. For more information or to express interest, contact Bill and Lena Gokelman at ArchSAchoir@archsa.org. We are currently preparing for the following celebrations:


Transitional Diaconate & Presbyteral Ordinations

May 24 at 10 a.m. (St. Mark the Evangelist)

To participate, RSVP by Sunday, May 4


Permanent Diaconate Ordination

June 14 at 10 a.m. (St. Mark the Evangelist)

To participate, RSVP by Sunday, May 25

Catholic Seniors’ Conference

May 31, 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 

Pilgrim Center of Hope warmly invites you to this unique event. Whatever your state in life, you are welcome to this day of Mass celebrated by Archbishop Gustavo, prayer, learning, fellowship, and laughter. Come join us and learn about God’s calling for us as we enter our golden years. Discover a message of joy and hope! Interested persons of all ages are welcome. Visit the Pilgrim Center of Hope website for more information.

Download the Flyer and Registration Form

5-Week Summer Formation for Adults Serving in Youth Ministry

June 7–July 25

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The Archdiocesan Institute for Lay Ecclesial Ministry and Service is hosting a five-week Parish Ministry Formation designed for those serving in ministries with middle school and high school youth at Mexican American Catholic College (3115 W. Ashby Place, San Antonio, TX 78228 - directions). The program fee is $125 and weekly courses include Called and Sent, Sacred Scripture, Profession of Faith: Creed, Liturgy and Sacraments, Life in Christ, and Specialized Ministry. Registration is open. If you have any questions, contact Elizabeth "Liz" Ortiz or Daniela Gomez or call (210) 731-3121.

Learn more and register

Catholic Counseling Directory

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To better address mental health challenges and highlight good mental health care within our Catholic community, the archdiocese coordinates a Catholic Counseling Directory. All counselors listed have an active license to practice and are in good standing in their Catholic parish. Counselors are available in virtual and in-person formats. Bilingual counselors are available. Visit the Mental Health Ministry webpage to view the Archdiocesan Counseling Directory. If you are a Catholic counselor and you’d like to be added to the list, please fill out the form. Contact Lauren Stadelman at with any questions.

Catholic Television of San Antonio

Photo: Provided

In the week following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, “SA News” broadcast the very latest news regarding the Holy Father in segments titled, “Remembering Pope Francis.”

Visit Catholic Television of San Antonio
View Video

Photo of the Week

Photo: Veronica Markland for Today's Catholic Newspaper

A Jubilee Mass for Catholic Schools was celebrated at St. James Church in Seguin on April 27 by Auxiliary Bishop Michael Boulette. Catholic school students served in several roles at the liturgy.

2025 Catholic Directory is Here

The Catholic Directory includes updated clergy assignments, archdiocesan services, educational services, health services, contact information and Mass schedules for urban and rural parishes, priests, deacons, brothers, women religious and more.

Purchase the Directory

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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
Click here to purchase

Mutually Shared Vision




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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