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.

Credit: Holy See Mission to the United Nations

Pope Leo XIV has named Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia as the new apostolic nuncio to the United States, succeeding Cardinal Christophe Pierre, who turned 80, the retirement age for cardinals, at the end of January. Archbishop Caccia has until now served as the Holy Seeʼs permanent observer at the United Nations in New York, since 2019. The Italian diplomat previously served as nuncio, the pope’s diplomatic representative, to Lebanon and the Philippines.

Young adults across the archdiocese are invited to an evening of prayer, mercy, and fellowship on San Fernando Cathedral (directions). Worship on the River, now in its second decade, gathers young adults for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and the sacrament of reconciliation from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., followed by a light meal and community fellowship from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

This year, the gathering moves to the spiritual heart of San Antonio and shifts to a quarterly rhythm, making each evening all the more meaningful. Whether you are a college student discerning your path, a young professional navigating career and relationships, or a young parent seeking renewal, this evening was designed with you in mind. Christ's invitation remains as personal as it has ever been: "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28, NABRE). No registration is required. Bring a friend and come as you are. All are welcome. 

What would it look like to say yes to God with your whole life? On the eve of Divine Mercy Sunday, the archdiocese invites young adults ages 18 to 39 to find out. FIAT is a full day of hands-on service, vocational reflection, and prayer, beginning at Assumption Seminary (directions) and continuing at Catholic Charities service sites across the city. The day includes a keynote reflection from Archbishop Gustavo a dedicated Holy Hour of Eucharistic Adoration with reconciliation available, and outdoor fellowship to close. It is free, communal, and designed for young adults at every stage of their faith journey. Mary said yes without seeing the whole picture. Her fiat opened the door for mercy to enter the world. This day is your invitation to do the same. Registration is required by Wednesday, April 1. Space is limited. 

FIAT is a collaboration of the archdiocesan Office for Young Adult Ministry, the Vocations Office, Assumption Seminary, and Catholic Charities of the archdiocese of San Antonio.

Is your parish community hosting a fish fry during Lent? Let us know by sending an email to communications@archsa.org with the subject line “Fish Fry.” We will include the information in next week’s newsletter.

Every Holy Thursday, groups of Catholic faithful embark on the Seven Churches Visitation. In this special tradition, pilgrims adore Christ in seven different altars of repose while praying and reflecting on the passion of Christ. Is your parish open the evening of Holy Thursday? Let us know by sending the details to communications@archsa.org with the subject line “Holy Thursday.”

The ACTS National Conference is an event offered for fellowship, connection, and renewal. Gather at St. Rose of Lima Church (directions) with brothers and sisters in Christ for an inspiring weekend and be restored in spirit. Student and adult pricing is available. Registration for clergy is free. Register before May 15 to receive the early bird discount. The final registration deadline is August 31.

Photo: UTSA Libraries Special Collections

For more than 150 years, two iconic neighbors have stood side by side in the heart of our city — San Fernando Cathedral and Frost Bank.

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.

Photo: Veronica Markland for Today's Catholic Newspaper

The archdiocesan 2026 Life Awareness Discernment Weekend came to a conclusion with Archbishop Gustavo celebrating a closing Mass on March 1 at the Cordi Marian Retreat Center, inspiring all to move forward with an open heart. Pray for all those discerning how God is calling them to live a life of holiness. 

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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