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.

Tens of thousands of people joined Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square October 11 to pray for peace in the world.

Before the statue of Our Lady of Fatima, which was brought to Rome from Portugal for the October 11–12 Jubilee of Marian Spiritualities, the pope entrusted believers to the Mother of God to guide the Church in its “pilgrimage of hope.”



During the special prayer vigil, which included a contemplative recitation of the rosary and time for Eucharistic Adoration, the Holy Father delivered a short address and encouraged those present to ask the Mother of God for the gift of a “listening heart.”

Visitors still have access to the centuries-old churches on the grounds of Missions Concepción, Espada, San José, and San Juan. The churches are operated by the archdiocese and all continue to hold Masses. The missions, all located near the San Antonio River from downtown and through the South Side, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract more than one million visitors each year. The San Antonio Missions can be visited daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of San Antonio will be a proud participant in Texas’s new Education Savings Account (ESA) program, launching Fall of 2026. Both new and current families may qualify to receive $10,000 per child, per year to cover tuition and education costs. Catholic education forms both hearts and minds, rooted in faith and academic excellence. With ESA support, this education is now more accessible than ever. Learn about our Catholic Schools and sign up here to get ESA updates. 

In every parish, God is calling to help us recognize and encourage those who may be called to the priesthood or religious life. Beginning at Masses this weekend, San Antonio Vocations is launching “Called by Name,” a powerful initiative designed for parishes. Together, we can awaken vocations from within communities and transform the archdiocese. To learn more, visit the San Antonio Vocations website, contact the Vocation Office at (210) 735-0553 or email vocations@archsa.org.

“Help me help the missions” - Pope Leo XIV  

World Mission Sunday is celebrated across the world this Sunday! Pope Leo has sent a special message asking Catholics everywhere to support the missions by giving generously during the second collection at all Masses this weekend of October 18-19. This World Mission Sunday, our Holy Father — the Church’s chief missionary — is asking each of us to support those proclaiming the Gospel in the 1,124 mission territories across Asia, Africa, Oceania, the Pacific Islands, and Latin America. Jesus reminds us, “Give, and it will be given to you” (Lk 6:38). Today is the day to help bring Christ’s love to the ends of the earth. Pray for missionaries, plan your offering, and be generous in this global collection of solidarity. Together, let’s help Pope Leo XIV bring Christ’s light to the ends of the earth.

Join us in a safe space for families impacted by the criminal justice system for Mass celebrated by Bishop Gary W. Janak, prayer, fellowship, support, sharing, and resources. We welcome all individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system tomorrow starting at 8 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church (directions). Whether you have previously been incarcerated or have a family member or friend who is currently incarcerated, we invite you to join us for faith and fellowship. Food and drinks will be provided. Criminal Justice Ministry works with Catholic Charities Archdiocese of San Antonio to provide social and family services to those in need. Some of the information on the registration form will be used to help us provide services to families impacted by incarceration, mental wellness, and spiritual formation.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” — Psalm 34:19 

Join us for a Mental Health Retreat at Church of the Holy Spirit (directions) for a day of rest, reflection, and renewal for all who live with or support someone living with mental illness. The retreat includes prayer, fellowship, breakout sessions, and a keynote by Deacon Ed Shoener, president of the International Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers. The retreat will end with Vigil Mass celebrated by Bishop Janak. Free admission thanks to the generosity of the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers. 

Photo: Provided

The International Folk Culture Center at Our Lady of the Lake University invited the community to the Hip Hop & We Don’t Stop Summit, a week-long celebration of Hip Hop culture, education, and creativity October 3-12. This eight-day summit explored how Hip Hop shows up in our lives and communities through classes, workshops, performances, and community gatherings. From DJing and MCing to style writing and dance, participants were immersed themselves in Hip Hop’s artistry and cultural impact. 

Photo: Veronica Markland, Today's Catholic Newspaper

Auxiliary Bishop Arturo Cepeda was welcomed to the archdiocese at two Masses at San Fernando Cathedral October 12. The liturgies were celebrated by Archbishop Gustavo, and receptions followed both services in the Plaza de la Cruz, featuring food, drink, and mariachi music.

Assembly 2025: Special day to be renewed as pilgrims of hope for the world at jubilee pilgrimage sites

Major relics coming to Little Flower Basilica October 31 to November 4

Tourism to Missions contributes $171 million to local economy

Holy Father writes that poor are not only objects of charity, but also evangelists

St. André Bessette relics visit San Antonio, was a healer who loved St. Joseph

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