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 marks Nicaea anniversary, urges Christians to overcome divisions | | |
Pope Leo XIV commemorated the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea on November 28 in the Turkish city historically known as the birthplace of the Nicene Creed, calling Christians to overcome “the scandal of divisions” and to renew their commitment to unity.
The pope spoke during an ecumenical prayer service held at the archaeological site of the ancient Basilica of Saint Neophytos on the shore of Lake Iznik, southeast of Istanbul. The gathering marked one of the most symbolic moments of his apostolic visit to Turkey, which has focused heavily on ecumenical and interreligious outreach.
“We are all invited to overcome the scandal of divisions,” he said, urging Christians to nurture “the desire for unity for which the Lord Jesus prayed and gave his life.”
| | Message from Archbishop Gustavo
García-Siller, MSpS | | |
We have begun the Advent season, to prepare for Christmas. I invite you to imagine a small seed planted in dry, cracked earth. It seems fragile. Yet, because of the warmth of God’s love, and the care of a gentle hand, that seed bursts forth. In the same way, our lives — sometimes rough — can become new life in the Lord Jesus, as we are renewed from the heart by the Holy Spirit. Jesus is full of the joy of the Holy Spirit, who comes to bring a new creation. Where once there was hunger, sorrow or injustice, he calls forth life, harmony, love. In him, the promises of God find their flesh. In Mass, God invites us to become a living community, one body, healed and reconciled. In unity there is strength; in love there is healing; in compassion there is hope. Let our lives be the Bread of Life broken for the hungry, kindness offered to the wounded, friendship extended to the lonely.
| | Around the Archdiocese of San Antonio | |
Celebrate Advent & Christmas with San Antonio Deaf Catholic!
Our Lady of Sorrows Church
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Looking for a welcoming spiritual community this holiday season? Join us at Our Lady of Sorrows Church (directions) for beautiful ASL-interpreted Masses and festive gatherings designed for Deaf Catholics and their loved ones.
In addition to this liturgy schedule, on Sunday, December 28, after the 11 a.m. Mass, join us in Chavez Hall for our Christmas party and potluck. Bring your favorite dish, enjoy fellowship, and try your luck with the Three Kings Cake — find a baby figure and win a prize. This is more than Mass— it’s community, friendship, and faith celebrated together. Families and friends, spread the word and invite deaf Catholics you know. For more information, email Alejandra B. Lozano, Director of Deaf Ministry.
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Experience the Spirit of Tradition: The Annual Matachine Festival
Sunday, December 7, 1–5 p.m., Mission Concepción
| | Join the faithful of San Antonio for a vibrant celebration of faith, history, and culture at the historic Mission Concepción (directions). The mission grounds and El Camino de San Antonio Missions campus will come alive with the rhythmic drumming and colorful regalia of the Matachines. Bring the whole family to witness these breathtaking dance troupes, enjoy live music, savor delicious food from local vendors, and shop for unique fair-trade items. Come experience the living history and spiritual heartbeat of the archdiocese. | |
Worship on the River—Christmas Concert
Tuesday, December 16, 6:30 p.m., San Fernando Cathedral
| | Mark your calendars for an annual Advent celebration that you don’t want to miss. Archbishop Gustavo and the archdiocesan Young Adult Ministry invite you to a special night with the Blessed Sacrament. Join us for adoration, fellowship, food, and a Christmas concert with your favorite songs of the season. We hope to see you at San Fernando Cathedral (directions). See the Lord’s love through the power of the Eucharist and the beauty of sacred music. Lift your hearts and minds in Jesus Christ to prepare the way for His birth at Christmas. | |
Southwest Liturgical Conference Study Week 2026
February 10–13, 2026, Santa Fe, New Mexico
| | Early-bird registration is now open for the 64th annual Southwest Liturgical Conference Study Week 2026 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This annual gathering offers workshops, liturgical formation, and networking opportunities for parish leaders and liturgy enthusiasts. Secure your spot and be part of this enriching experience. | | Catholic Television of San Antonio | | The 34th Interfaith Thanksgiving Service was held November 25 at San Fernando Cathedral with Archbishop Gustavo, Father Carlos Velázquez, and leaders from various civic entities and religious communities. | | Photo: Veronica Markland, Today's Catholic Newspaper | | More than 300 turkey boxes filled with a Thanksgiving meal, including rolls, green beans, a Turkey ready to be thawed and cooked for the holiday, and more, were distributed at the Catholic Charities Guadalupe Community Center November 25 with the support of friends at The RK Group, The Gonzaba Foundation, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Church of Jesus Christ in San Antonio). To help us give back to the community during this holiday season, visit their website below to learn how — | |
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
Five Dollar Fall Sale
Limited Quantity
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Five Dollar Fall 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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