Archbishop Joe Vásquez,
The staff of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston offers prayers and thanksgiving for your many years of leadership and service to our Church.
May God’s grace continue to sustain and strengthen you as we work together to build up the Body of Christ.
Peace be with you, today and always.
We are pleased to welcome you back to Galveston-Houston!
+ Daniel Cardinal DiNardo
+ Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS and the Chancery Staff of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
Shrine of St. Juan Diego and Our Lady of Guadalupe, Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
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Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez
President & Publisher
Daniel Cardinal DiNardo
Archbishop Emeritus
Jonah Dycus
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Rebecca Torrellas
Managing Editor
James Ramos
Content Editor
Catherine Viola
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Adam Brill, Karina Herrera-Inzunza, Lisa May, Elizabeth Morales and Deacon Paul J. Sullivan
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Very special thanks to the Diocese of Austin: Andres Almendarez, Camille Garcia, Melinda Johnson and Shelley Metcalf
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Issue date: April 8
Deadline: Noon on March 18
Issue date: April 22
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Editorial deadlines are no later than Tuesday at noon, 21 days prior to the issue date.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4 • REFLECTIONS FROM THE BISHOPS
Archbishop Vásquez, Cardinal DiNardo and Bishop Dell’Oro share messages of welcome
9 • MEET ARCHBISHOP
VÁSQUEZ
Getting to know Galveston-Houston’s new shepherd in a timeline of faith and history.
11 • A FAMILY ROOTED IN FAITH
For Archbishop Vásquez, family responsibility and deep roots grow a faithful vocation
12 • A COMMITMENT TO LIFE
Archbishop Vásquez advocates for marginalized, stands to witness life
17
• LOCAL CLERGY REJOICES
Local clergy remembers connections to Archbishop Vásquez
20 • EX CATHEDRA
St. Mary Cathedral Basilica and Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart are full of history, years of prayer
22 • LEADING THE AUSTIN DIOCESE
In Central Texas, Archbishop Vásquez lead faithful amid record growth
26
• WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?
All your Archbishop-related questions answered
30 • THE STORY OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON
An overview of the history of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston and its bishops
38 • A WARM WELCOME BACK
Local ministry leaders are excited to welcome back ‘one of the family’
40 • A STUDENT’S WELCOME
Students from Archdiocesan Catholic schools welcome Archbishop Vásquez with colorful messages and drawings and even food recommendations
44 • CARTAS DE LOS OBISPOS
Por Arzobispo Vásquez y Obispo Auxiliar Dell’Oro
50 • LOOK TO THE CROSS
A retrospective of Cardinal DiNardo’s journey of faith and leadership
55 • A VATICAN REPORT
Updates from the Holy See
Your neighbors, Bishop Anthony B. Taylor and the people of the ese of Little Rock Dioc on your appointment by Pope Francis We wish you many blessings in your
A LETTER FROM ARCHBISHOP VÁSQUEZ
BY ARCHBISHOP JOE S. VÁSQUEZ • ARCHBISHOP OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON
My Dear Brothers and Sisters: I remain deeply humbled by the confidence the Holy Father has placed in me to serve as archbishop.
I follow in the footsteps of eight shepherds who have served the people of this Archdiocese generously and with loving care. I am excited to return to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, one of the most diverse and dynamic dioceses in the country, where I began my episcopal ministry 23 years ago. My episcopal motto is “Sígueme,” which means, follow me; these words come from the Gospel when Jesus calls His apostles to come after Him. He calls them, and us, to leave everything and follow Him. I pray that together, we may be faithful disciples of Christ, placing our trust in Him always.
FROM THE Scanlan Foundation TO THE Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez, ARCHBISHOP OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON
To mark the occasion, we would like to invite all faithful in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston to join us in prayer for more vocations to the priesthood, religious life, and holy families.
I especially look forward to serving with my brother priests who sacrifice themselves and faithfully provide pastoral care to the people of God. I appreciate our deacons, whose ministry is often fulfilled quietly and sometimes goes unnoticed. I am deeply grateful for our consecrated men and women, whose dedication gives powerful witness to their lives of faith and service. Finally, I rejoice in our laity who live their Catholic faith every day and serve in our parishes, ministries and communities. As I begin this important mission, I pray the Holy Spirit helps me to listen and
learn so that I can serve you better.
In this Year of Jubilee, Pope Francis reminds us that as pilgrims of hope, we look to God, who is the source of peace and joy. May this Holy Year be a blessing for all and strengthen our faith and courage to trust in the Lord. May Christ’s Body and Blood, the source and summit of our Catholic faith, nourish and sustain us to continue His work in our world today. Through the intercession of our patroness, Mary, under her title of the Immaculate Conception, may we grow ever closer to her Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. †
A LETTER FROM CARDINAL DINARDO
BY DANIEL CARDINAL DINARDO • ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I joyfully welcome Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez as the next Archbishop of Galveston-Houston and give gratitude to the Holy Father for naming an experienced, prayerful and humble shepherd to lead this local Church.
Archbishop Vásquez is a faithful, articulate and bicultural bishop who has wisely led the Diocese of Austin for the last 15 years. Further, we are delighted to welcome him back to the local Church where he was ordained a bishop and served diligently for many years as auxiliary bishop.
I, along with Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, the many priests, deacons, women and men religious, and lay faithful who constitute this incredibly diverse local Church assure Archbishop Vásquez of our continued love, prayers, support and cooperation as he begins to lead us.
Ad multos annos! †
Queridos hermanos y hermanas,
Es con gran alegría que le doy la bienvenida al Arzobispo
Joe S. Vásquez, próximo Arzobispo de Galveston-Houston y agradezco al Santo Padre el nombramiento de un pastor experimentado, piadoso y humilde para dirigir esta Iglesia local.
El Arzobispo Vásquez es un obispo fiel, elocuente y bicultural que ha liderado sabiamente a la Diócesis de Austin por los últimos quince años. Además, nos complace darle la bienvenida nuevamente a esta Iglesia local, donde fue ordenado obispo y sirvió diligentemente durante muchos años como obispo auxiliar.
Yo, junto con el Obispo Italo Dell’Oro, los numerosos sacerdotes, diáconos, hombres y mujeres religiosos, y los fieles laicos que constituyen esta increíblemente diversa Iglesia local, le aseguramos al ArzobispoVásquez nuestro continuo amor, oraciones, apoyo y cooperación mientras comienza a dirigirnos. ¡Ad multos annos! †
“Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
As
you continue your journey with Jesus, walks with you and gives thanks to God!
A LETTER FROM BISHOP DELL’ORO
BY BISHOP ITALO DELL’ORO, CRS • AUXILIARY BISHOP OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON
Dear Archbishop Joe Vásquez, welcome back to the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston!
I remember it as if it were last week, the evening of your episcopal ordination at the Catholic Charismatic Center. There was a full house, so many priests and faithful, Bishop Joseph A. Fiorenza as proud as he could ever be and the young priest in his early 40s, soon to become a bishop, both smiling happily. Then the ordination rite began, and it came to the anointing of the Holy Spirit through the pouring out of Holy Chrism on the one being ordained, you. It seemed as if Bishop Fiorenza was rejoicing quite a bit as he continued pouring the sacred oil on your head, somehow indifferent to how much was flowing down on all sides, as your head was soon soaked.
From my seat, another image came to mind, overlapping that which was in my eyes. That of the prophet Samuel anointing the young shepherd David on whom, according to the New American Bible translation, “from that day on, the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon.” Hurry, ándale, apúrete, hasten up, Holy Spirit, and fill the life of this young priest that he may go and proclaim in words, deeds, and
the Sacraments, the life, the truth and the way that is Jesus Christ!
Only a few months earlier I had begun my new activity in vocations promotion for the Somascan Fathers. Then, when you arrived, you became involved in Hispanic and youth/young adults ministry. Later on, I became involved with the priests ministry. Thus, for the next eight years, serving both Archbishop Fiorenza and then Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, I was fortunate to interact with you frequently, thus getting to know the kind and smiling man of God, the reflective man of responsibility open to other people’s input, the guide who persevered with resolve once the decision was made.
I see how you have allowed God’s plan to weave in the events of your life. You were ordained a priest by Bishop Fiorenza in San Angelo in 1984. Then, you were appointed auxiliary bishop of GalvestonHouston on Jan. 23, 2002, by Bishop Fiorenza, who also ordained you as his auxiliary bishop. Four years, mostly of pastoral ministry, ensued until his immediate successor, then archbishop and now Cardinal DiNardo, introduced you to another four years long of enriching administrative ministry. After 15 years in
Austin, now you are returning as the third Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, Fiorenza’s second successor.
In the meantime, the city and the Archdiocese have grown in population and diversity. New trees and their fruits are now here. The orchard is the same as it was when you left 15 years ago but has now grown larger and more diversified, still producing good fruits.
Welcome back, Archbishop Joe!
Perhaps from of old, this was really meant to be your home before the Father’s house.
In the meantime, I, too, have been inundated by the Holy Spirit and have experienced the overwhelming effects of such a momentous event. Still in Houston, I am serving in your same administrative and pastoral roles under the attentive eye of our common mentor, Cardinal DiNardo, and am waiting for you to take the lead of this beautiful portion of the Church.
I look forward to resuming my collaboration with you as I did 20 years ago, and I trust that faith, hope and charity will continue to spread for many years to come.
Bentornato, Arcivescovo Joe! †
In reflection, Archbishop Fiorenza called Archbishop Vásquez ‘the real thing’
HOUSTON — When the Diocese of Austin received news they’d gain a new bishop in 2010, Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza of Galveston-Houston wrote a reflection and message to congratulate then-Bishop Joe Vásquez of his appointment.
“What can the people ... expect in their new bishop, Joe S. Vásquez?” he wrote. “They will soon realize that he is, as the saying goes, ‘the real thing.’ He is a bishop who will love the priests and people of the diocese with a true shepherd’s heart. He will minister to all with joy and with a beautiful capacity to listen with sensitivity and understanding. He has great compassion for the poor, the immigrants, the sick and the elderly.”
Archbishop Fiorenza, who ordained now-Archbishop Vásquez both as a priest and as an auxiliary bishop, died on Sept. 19, 2022. He said Archbishop Vásquez “is blessed with a positive outlook on life and a very pleasant personality. He smiles easily and laughs often with coworkers and friends.”
He continued: “I have had the opportunity to observe him as he grew in episcopal responsibilities and as a competent administrator. He has a calm and effective ability to relate with priests
and people of all backgrounds and every ethnicity, race and language. He speaks Spanish and Italian as easily as English. He is proficient in speaking the language of Gospel love. He was reared on tacos and enchiladas but also loves Italian food. I hope there are good Italian restaurants in Austin. His easy-going manner and friendly style should not lead one to think he could be a pushover. That would be a serious mistake. In an appropriate
HERALD FILE PHOTO
Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza lays his hands on Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez during his episcopal ordination as GalvestonHouston’s auxiliary bishop in 2002.
will teach clearly and with fidelity to the Magisterium, and he will celebrate the Sacraments with joy, leading all to growth in the holiness of Jesus Christ. He is ‘the real thing,’ which the Church desires in a bishop.”
Reflecting on his long-held and beloved relationship with Archbishop Fiorenza, Archbishop Vásquez said it was “a great blessing to have known and worked with Archbishop Fiorenza.”
situation, he will be kind, but firm, and when necessary, he can make difficult decisions without notable anxiety. As an administrator, he will not make rash decisions, but neither will he delay in making needed decisions.”
Archbishop Fiorenza lauded Archbishop Vásquez’s love for the Church: “Above all, Bishop Vásquez loves the Catholic Church and will govern with decisiveness and compassion; he
“He was a mentor and cherished friend. I was privileged to have been ordained to the priesthood and the episcopacy by Archbishop Fiorenza,” he said. “He was a humble man and a true shepherd who loved to serve people; he particularly had a closeness to the poor, the immigrants and the suffering. He also cared deeply for his priests, always having their well-being in mind, but at the same time expecting them to be men of service and faithful to the Church. He loved his priesthood, and because of him, I try to live the same life of service and concern for those in need just as he did.”
Archbishop Fiorenza first served as the Bishop of San Angelo from 1979 to 1985 and as the Archbishop of GalvestonHouston from 1985 to 2006. †
HERALD STAFF REPORT
With gratitude for his 15 years of faithful shepherding of the Diocese of Austin, the priests, deacons, consecrated men and women, and all the faithful congratulate
THE MOST REVEREND JOE S. VÁSQUEZ ARCHBISHOP OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON
May the patroness of Galveston-Houston and Austin, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, intercede for him, asking God’s continued blessings upon his episcopal ministry in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
Meet Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez
HERALD STAFF REPORT
ARCHBISHOP JOE S. VÁSQUEZ
A TIMELINE OF FAITH AND HISTORY
Archbishop Vásquez was born July 9, 1957, in Stamford, Texas to Juan and Elvira Vásquez. He is the eldest of six children with three brothers: Robert Vásquez, Samuel Vásquez, and James Vásquez; and two sisters: Cynthia Martínez and Consuelo Garza.
He attended Stamford and Abilene public schools and then studied theology at the University of St. Thomas in Houston from 1976 to 1980. He attended the Gregorian University, North American College, in Rome from 1980 to 1985. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of San Angelo on June 30, 1984, by Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza.
In the Diocese of San Angelo, he served as associate pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Odessa from 1985 to 1987; as pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Fort Stockton from 1987 to 1997; and as pastor of St. Joseph Parish in San Angelo from 1997 to 2002.
In January 2002, Archbishop Vásquez was installed as auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. Archbishop Vásquez was the vicar general and chancellor for the Archdiocese, overseeing the administrative operations of the largest diocese in Texas and what was then the 11th largest diocese in the U.S.
He also served as episcopal vicar for Hispanics and as the liaison for youth during his years in Galveston-Houston.
Archbishop Vásquez currently serves as a consultant to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities and as lead bishop for Region X for the Fifth National Encounter for Hispanic/Latino Ministry (V Encuentro). He has previously served on the following committees of the USCCB: chair, Committee on Migration; administrative committee; and Committee for Religious Liberty; and as a consultant to the committee on International Justice and Peace, the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, the Subcommittee on Hispanic Affairs; and the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism.
He also previously served on the board of directors of Catholic Relief Services and the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc. (CLINIC).
Archbishop Vásquez was installed as the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Austin on March 8, 2010, and he was installed as the third archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston on March 25. †
1957
July 9: Joe Steve Vásquez is born the oldest of six children to Juan and Elvira Vásquez in Stamford, Texas, 40 miles north of Abilene. 1959
July 25: Diocese of Galveston becomes the Diocese of Galveston-Houston.
1976
Joe Vásquez graduates from Abilene High School and then heads to St. Mary Seminary and the University of St. Thomas in Houston to eventually earn a Theology degree.
1980
San Angelo Bishop Joseph A. Fiorenza sends Joe Vásquez to continue studies in Rome at the Pontifical North American College and Pontifical Gregorian University, earning a licentiate in Sacred Theology from the Gregorian.
1983
Archbishop Vásquez as a young boy
April 14: Father Vásquez is ordained in Rome as a transitional deacon of San Angelo by Archbishop Jean Jadot. 1984
June 30: Ordained a priest of the Diocese of San Angelo by Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in San Angelo.
Father Vásquez is named parochial vicar of St. Joseph Parish in Odessa.
Archbishop Vásquez’s mission to call all to follow Jesus returns to Archdiocese
HERALD
Archbishop
Vásquez served
as auxiliary bishop in Galveston-Houston from 2002 to 2010
HOUSTON — Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Daniel Cardinal DiNardo of Galveston-Houston on Jan. 21 and named as his successor Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin.
Archbishop Vásquez, 67, has headed the Diocese of Austin since 2010. Additionally, he served as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Tyler, Texas, from November 2023 to the Feb. 24 installation of Tyler Bishop Gregory Kelly.
The resignation and appointment were publicized in Washington on Jan. 20 by Christophe Cardinal Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the U.S.
“I am delighted by the appointment of Bishop Vásquez as the next Archbishop of Galveston-Houston,” Cardinal DiNardo said. “I give gratitude to the Holy Father for naming an experienced, prayerful and humble shepherd to lead this local Church.”
His successor expressed gratitude to God “for bestowing this responsibility on me, and I am humbled by this appointment. With God’s grace, I pledge to serve the needs of this local Church to the best of my ability.”
Archbishop Vásquez’s installation
Mass is being held on March 25 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston. Of Mexican American descent, the archbishop is one of 26 active Hispanic Catholic bishops in the U.S. His episcopal motto is “Sígueme,” Spanish for “Follow me,” in reference to Jesus’ words to Peter in the Gospel of St. John.
Pope Benedict XVI appointed him the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Austin on Jan. 26, 2010. The central Texas diocese is home to more than 700,000 Catholics across 25 counties.
Before his appointment to Austin, the newly named archbishop was an auxiliary of the Archdiocese he will now head. He was named auxiliary bishop of Galveston-Houston on Nov. 30, 2001, by Pope John Paul II and ordained early the following year. At the time of his episcopal ordination, he was the youngest bishop in the U.S.
At a Jan. 20 press conference, Cardinal DiNardo said the Archdiocese is “joyful” about welcoming back the newly named archbishop “to the local Church where he was ordained a bishop.”
“I and the many priests, deacons, women and men religious, and lay faithful who make up this incredibly diverse
1987
STAFF REPORT See APPOINTMENT, page 12
Father Vásquez is named pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Stockton, where he remained for 10 years.
Bishop Gregory Aymond who is appointed to New Orleans.
March 8: Bishop Vásquez is installed as the fifth Bishop of Austin, the first Mexican American bishop to lead the Diocese of Austin.
For Archbishop Vásquez, family responsibility and deep roots grow a faithful vocation
HOUSTON — Nearly seven hours away from the Downtown Chancery in Houston, in West Texas, is a tiny town named Stamford that is home to just under 3,000 people. Just under 40 miles north of Abilene, Stamford is home to an event venue called The Stagecoach, a restaurant named the Dixie Dog, and an art display called the Truck Bed Ranch. It is here that Archbishop Joe Vásquez’s story began.
The oldest of six children, Archbishop Vásquez would watch over his siblings while their parents worked, making sure they did their chores and helped with their homework.
His sister, Cynthia Martinez of Abilene, Texas, said Archbishop Vásquez was very protective of his
BY REBECCA TORRELLAS • TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
younger brothers and sisters.
“A lot of the responsibility fell on him,” she said. “He took good care of us and made sure we helped our parents and each other.”
His sister, Consuelo Garza, also of Abilene, recalls how Archbishop Vásquez also watched them during the summer, ensuring they did their chores, such as cleaning the garage and closets and working on the yard. But it wasn’t always hard work.
“We would play outside with our neighbors, pick teams, and play kickball, baseball, and tag,” she said of their youth. “When it was really hot, we would run through the sprinklers and
See FAMILY, page 14
2012
March 15: Other Texas bishops join Bishop Vásquez for an “ad limina” trip to visit Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican.
2013
April 25: Bishop Vásquez meets with U.S. President Barack Obama, Texas U.S. Senator John Cornyn and a firefighter during a memorial at Baylor University in Waco for those who died in a fertilizer plant explosion in West, Texas, where at least 15 people died and more than 200 were injured.
2015
March 3: Bishop Vásquez welcomes Father
2016
November 15: Bishop Vásquez is elected chair of the U.S Conference of Catholic bishops committee on migration.
2018
September 20: Bishop Vásquez serves as lead bishop for Region X at the Fifth National Encuentro in Grapevine, Texas, a gathering of more than 3,200 Hispanic Catholic leaders and about 125 bishops.
2020
January 20: Bishop Vásquez and other Texas bishops visit Pope Francis for an “ad limina” trip to the Vatican.
2021
Bishop Vásquez oversees the construction of four new churches including Santa Barbara, San Francisco Javier, Sacred Heart and St. Joseph, reflecting the diocese’s major growth.
2022
October: Bishop Vásquez invites the Austin Diocese to participate in the 2023 assembly of the Synod of Bishops.
Daniel Garcia, appointed Diocese of Austin’s first Auxiliary Bishop, a sign of Austin’s significant growth.
Archbishop Vásquez meets U.S. President Barack Obama in Waco at Baylor University
Then-Bishop Joe S. Vásquez is ordained as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston. Left to right are brother Robert Vásquez, sister Cynthia Martinez, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez, his father Juan Vásquez, brother James Vásquez and sister Consuelo Garza.
A commitment to life
BY JAMES RAMOS • TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
Since his ordination, Archbishop Vásquez has advocated for the marginalized and stood in witness to life
HOUSTON — Both as a bishop and a priest, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez has made clear the call of Jesus to love thy neighbor as thyself.
Sister Heloise Cruzat, O.P., who served as vicar for religious for the Archdiocese from 2005 to 2018, recalls always feeling like a “welcome colleague” of Archbishop Vásquez when he served as auxiliary bishop in Galveston-Houston.
“How fortunate we are to welcome a native Texan as its shepherd,” she said. “Archbishop Vásquez has the heart of a faithful shepherd, with profound belief in the dignity of each person, welcoming and accompanying each and all. His episcopal leadership is proven, and his experience with Catholic Relief Services and with the Catholic Legal Immigration Network — CLINIC — calls me to deep hope that during so many challenges to our Catholic beliefs, we are welcoming a servant leader who will be effective in guiding us to Gospel fidelity.”
In Austin, Archbishop Vásquez was a
APPOINTMENT, from page 10
“we continue to promote vocations to the priesthood because they’re necessary for
regular visible witness to choosing life, most recently giving the invocation at the 2025 Texas Rally for Life. He worked with the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops in Austin to advocate for legislation that sought the protection of life at all stages, from conception to natural death.
Now in Galveston-Houston, Archbishop Vásquez oversees an Archdiocese that is unfortunate home to the State of Texas execution chamber in Huntsville.
In 2022, in collaboration with the Catholic Mobilizing Network (CMN), Archbishop Vásquez and Brownsville Bishop Daniel Flores made public to call off the execution of Melissa Lucio, a Catholic Texas woman who was wrongfully convicted for the tragic death of her young daughter.
Archbishop Vásquez said, “We are created in God’s image. And as such, we must commit to protecting every human being and caring for their soul. The execution of Melissa Lucio would be a tragedy. Members of her own family,
continuing the service to the people of God, the Sacraments, the preaching, the living out their faith.”
Archbishop Vásquez also recalled the
¡Felicidades!
especially her children, are pleading for Melissa’s life to be spared. Our faith teaches us that our response must be rooted in justice and mercy.”
Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy, CMN executive director, said,“The reality of our work in advocating for an end to the death penalty is that we are often surrounded by the presence of death. But, with the strong support of the Catholic faithful and our Church leadership, particularly Archbishop Vásquez, Melissa’s case was one where life won over death! I’m so grateful to have shared in this experience and committed advocacy with Archbishop Vásquez.”
Lucio’s execution was stayed just days before she was set to die in Huntsville. These calls for her freedom, according to Vaillancourt Murphy, set in motion a series of events that advocates hope will lead to Lucio’s release.
“The Texas Catholic bishops have consistently been leaders in speaking out against the death penalty,” Vaillancourt Murphy said. “This kind of pastoral leadership, especially in a place where the death penalty is alive and active, is critical.”
late Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza, who ordained him as a priest and then years later as a bishop. “He was truly a spiritual father to me and continues to be a source of inspiration. I think he had a hand in this (appointment) somehow.”
The archbishop also thanked the priests, men and women religious, deacons, seminarians and lay faithful of the Austin Diocese for their “love, support and prayers.” “I will always carry you in my heart,” he added.
Most Rev. Robert Coerver and the people of the Diocese of Lubbock celebrate with their brother and sister Texas Catholics welcoming the new Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston!
In Austin, Archbishop Vásquez drew focus to vocations of the religious life
2022
November 19: Bishop Vásquez celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Diocese of Austin with an opening Mass and celebration at the Bell County Expo Center in Belton.
2023
August 27: Bishop Vásquez consecrates the Church of the Visitation in Westphalia that replaced the historic 1895 hilltop church lost in a 2019 fire.
Then, in 2023, CMN also worked with Archbishop Vásquez and the Catholic Prison Ministries Coalition. Archbishop Vásquez celebrated Mass among women who were on death row in Texas at the Mountain View Unit prison in Gatesville near Waco.
The Mass was livestreamed, “and individuals around the country watched virtually, was an experience of prayer I’ll never forget. It couldn’t have happened without Archbishop Vásquez,” Vaillancourt Murphy said.
DIVERSE, FERVENT FAITH
Many faith advocates look to the Archdiocese as a model of citizenship and collaboration, including Bishop Jaime Soto of Sacramento, who chairs CLINIC’s board of directors.
“The Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston embraces people from around the world,” he said. “The diverse fabric of cultural and faith expressions pulsates with fervent faith and bountiful portions of neighborly kindness. These characteristically Houstonian qualities now extend a strong abrazo (a hug) to their new Archbishop, Joe Vásquez.”
In tandem with CLINIC’s efforts, Archbishop Vásquez chaired the U.S. bishops conference’s Committee on Migration from 2016 to 2019.
He shared a clear voice of the U.S. bishops’ calling for comprehensive immigration reform that advances the common good, imploring executive and congressional leaders to work together to create a border solution. †
Cardinal DiNardo said he will remain in the Houston area in retirement — which, he noted, does not mean he is retired as a cardinal. His position among the College of Cardinals remains, but his ability to vote in a papal conclave does have an time limit.
“That holds on until I’m 80,” he said, adding that he will be “very happy” to assist his successor in whatever he asks him to do. “Except to go to meetings,” he added with a laugh. †
November 11: Pope Francis appoints Bishop Vásquez as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Tyler, a position he held until Feb. 24, 2025.
November 18: The Austin Diocese’s 75th anniversary celebration closes with a Mass presided by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, and concelebrated by Bishop Vásquez, San Antonio Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, 10 brother bishops, over 175 priests, deacons and religious and about 800 faithful.
2024
July 17: Bishop Vásquez leads 275 pilgrims from the Austin Diocese at the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis.
2025
January 20: Pope Francis accepts Daniel Cardinal DiNardo’s retirement as Archbishop of Galveston-Houston and returns Bishop Vásquez back to GalvestonHouston in naming Bishop Vásquez as Cardinal DiNardo’s successor.
March 25: Archbishop Vásquez is installed as the ninth Bishop and third Metropolitan Archbishop of Galveston-Houston. †
God bless Archbishop Vásquez!
We offer our prayers and best wishes to all in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston on this joyous occasion!
Catholic Extension Society’s work began in Texas 120 years ago.
Since then, we have helped build or repair over 2,000 church facilities in Texas and have supported the seminarian education of thousands of priests, including Archbishop Vásquez.
Extension Society works in solidarity with people to build up vibrant and transformative Catholic faith communities among the poor in the poorest regions of America.
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chase down the ice cream truck. We had fun and amazing summers.”
His brother, James Vásquez, also of Abilene, said Archbishop Vásquez would delegate work to them much like he does today.
“Joe would always walk around with a stick in his hand, pointing with it, and isn’t it funny how he still has one now and delegating even today. Time hasn’t changed much at all, and I love him for it,” he said. “Though he was hard on us as younger siblings, he has a heart of love and compassion.”
Archbishop Vásquez said his siblings have always been supportive throughout his life.
“As the oldest sibling, I felt a responsibility to care for them, and they
continue to be a great source of love,” he said. “I count on their prayers and presence in my life.”
While his parents have both passed, Archbishop Vásquez said their example and support remain with him today.
“My father loved my mother and their six children. His example helped shape my understanding of my priesthood,” he said. “His sacrifice, strength and dedication to our family are traits that I value as a priest.”
While his father was very important in his vocation, initially, he didn’t support him going into the seminary, hoping Archbishop Vásquez would prefer to enter a profession.
“It wasn’t that he did not hold priests in high regard, but he thought the life of a priest would be difficult and lonely,” he said.“He believed I would be happier with
Archbishop Vásquez as a young seminarian
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CONSUELO GARZA, CYNTHIA MARTINEZ AND JAMES VÁSQUEZ
A toddler Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez with his mother Elvira Vásquez.
Then-Father Joe S. Vásquez celebrates Mass along with his uncle, Deacon Juan Bustamante, at a Vásquez Family Reunion in the Festival Gardens in Abilene, Texas.
Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez (right) and two of his colleagues in Rome.
At left, family friend Anita Diaz (left), Monsignor Bernard Gully and Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Abilene, Texas. At right, (from left) sister Consuelo Garza, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez and sister Cynthia Martinez.
“He was never really interested in what most teens were interested in at the time,” she said.“He did all the leg work; this was not something that was pushed on him but something he openly pursued.”
Garza said she recalls that he went to a retreat, and he came back “different.”
“I didn’t really understand because I thought seminary was just like going to another school,” she said.
It wasn’t until her parents asked Archbishop Vásquez if he really wanted to do this that she realized the kind of commitment he was making.
“The impact of him becoming a priest has made me and my family trust in the Lord and know that God has a plan for each one of us,” she said.
Martinez agreed with that sentiment.
faith,” she said. “We have dealt with a lot of loss in our family, and we have always been able to draw from his strong faith.”
James Vásquez said his brother’s priestly journey has helped him personally, knowing he could ask Archbishop Vásquez anything about their faith. When he was having marital issues, his brother gave him comfort by praying and telling him that God knew he was hurting.
“Joe doesn’t know, but that made me feel so much better,” he said. “I was hurting at that time, but to hear him tell me was something I will never forget. I felt his comforting words sink in and touch my heart.”
Garza said she has called on her brother’s prayers and comforting words
prayers over the phone, and he would listen to her cry when she was scared.
“He said, ‘Trust in Jesus and remember God has a plan.’ I remember he told me to pray the Rosary and ask Mother Mary to help me during this difficult time,” she said.
Garza has been cancer-free for five years. “I continue to do the Rosary, and my faith has grown,” she said.
Garza said her brother is a good and kind person, a good listener, and faithful.
“When he was first ordained, I looked at him, and I could see him as my big
brother,” she said. “Then, I could see his transformation as a servant and shepherd of God.”
James Vásquez said seeing his brother be ordained as a priest was a memorable moment for him, as well as being ordained a bishop.
“I know that being installed as an Archbishop will be another great memory,” he said.
Martinez said Archbishop Vásquez “is a faithful servant and will be a good shepherd to the people of GalvestonHouston.” †
Queen of Peace in La Marque welcomes our new Archbishop Most Rev. Joe Vásquez nd offers him our cordial good wishes with the assurance of our prayers. Pastor, Deacons and Lay Faithful
The whole Vásquez family gathers at Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez’s priestly ordination in San Angelo, Texas. Left to right are brother Samuel Vásquez, his father Juan Vásquez, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez, sister Cynthia Martinez, his mother Elvira Vásquez, brother James Vásquez, sister Consuelo Garza and brother Robert Vásquez.
Left to right, brother James Vásquez, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez, brother Robert Vásquez, and sisters Cynthia Martinez and Consuelo Garza. Sitting is his father Juan Vásquez.
Family at St. Joseph Catholic Church in San Angelo, Texas. From left to right, sister Cynthia Martinez, brother James Vásquez, his mother Elvira Vásquez, his father Juan Vásquez, and sister Consuelo Garza.
Congratulations
Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, MSpS; Auxiliary Bishop Michael Boulette; Auxiliary Bishop Gary Janak; and the faithful of the Archdiocese of San Antonio congratulate Archbishop Joe Vásquez on his appointment to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston by Pope Francis.
Welcome back to the Church of Southeast Texas, where you had so capably previously served in episcopal ministry.
A Friend and Brother: Local clergy remembers past connections to Archbishop Vásquez
BY ELIZABETH MORALES • TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
HOUSTON — From Stamford, Texas, Archbishop Joe Vásquez first moved to Houston in 1976 to begin formation as a young seminarian for the Diocese of San Angelo. Enrolled at St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston, Archbishop Vásquez graduated with a degree in theology. Excelling in his studies, he was sent to further his education at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, where he received a licentiate in sacred theology.
Formation at St. Mary’s introduced Archbishop Vásquez to clergy from dioceses throughout the state of Texas, who served as faculty, and to seminarians, who were local diocesan clergy in-themaking like himself.
Those mentorships with professors based in Houston and fraternity with seminarians, who became his brother priests at Texas dioceses — the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston included — familiarized Archbishop Vásquez with the area he now is appointed to lead. It connected him with local Church leaders of the time and future diocesan clergy who
MONSIGNOR CHESTER BORSKI
would serve alongside him leading up to present day.
“He was a good student for sure, always friendly, cooperative, got along well with the other seminarians,” said Monsignor Chester Borski, former rector of St. Mary’s Seminary when Archbishop Vásquez attended. “That’s my first remembrance of Archbishop Joe.”
Ordained as a priest in 1984 for the Diocese of San Angelo, Archbishop
Vásquez served at multiple parishes in his home diocese and became a recognized leader within the faith community.
Monsignor Borski recalled the time when he was recruiting faculty for the seminary and looking for representatives from Texas dioceses to assist with the education of future priests. He had thenFather Vásquez on the shortlist.
“I had requested from his bishop, who was Bishop (Michael) Pfeifer at the time,
“He came across as a shepherd to the shepherds, and for that, I am grateful.”
if he could release Father Joe to serve on our seminary faculty,” Monsignor Borski said.
Bishop Pfeifer agreed to release “Father Joe” to work at the seminary, but Monsignor Borski soon received a phone call from Bishop Pfeifer, letting him know to put the agreement on hold. Shortly thereafter, it was announced that “Father Joe” would be made auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
From 2002 to 2010, Archbishop Vásquez served as auxiliary bishop in Galveston-Houston, overseeing multiple
See CLERGY, on page 18
FATHER NORBERT MADUZIA
Father Norbert Maduzia
FILE PHOTO
Archbishop Joseph Fiorenza, left, with newly ordained Auxiliary Bishop Joe Vásquez, right at St. Mary’s Seminary on Jan. 25, 2002.
offices during the eight years, such as vicar general, chancellor, moderator of the curia, secretariat director for administration, and vicar for Hispanics. Each role acquainted him with local clergy as they worked together on different initiatives, projects and events, creating a unique dynamic of trust and respect with each priest.
“He was always very personable with me — looking for my best interest and potential growth as a pastor and ministerial leader,” said Father Norbert Maduzia, pastor at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church in Spring. “This was especially true when he served as vicar to Hispanics. He came across as a shepherd to the shepherds, and for that, I am grateful.”
Father Maduzia served as co-chair of the Ongoing Formation of Priests Committee and directly interfaced
him.
“I have always found him to be a gentle spirit, a person who listens intently and attentively to the person in front of him,” he said. “His guidance and suggestions were always well grounded with the particular person or situation in mind.”
Father Sean Horrigan, pastor at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church and a former co-chair of the Ongoing Formation of Priests Committee with Father Maduzia, said that “(Archbishop) Vásquez was invested in the life of the priests and was always curious of what we were doing to help priests in their ongoing formation to serve the people.”
Father Horrigan said Archbishop Vásquez’s concern and pastoral care for his brother priests was felt amongst the clergy.
“He was supportive of our initiatives and always ready to help out when we needed a speaker or presenter,” Father Horrigan said. “He truly loves not only the people of God but the priests and
“He always came across as very calm, peaceful, warm and kind-hearted towards others, making you comfortable around him.”
Father Dat Hoang
Archbishop Vásquez also impacted seminarians at the time. Father Dat Hoang, pastor at St. Faustina Catholic Church in Fulshear, was ordained a transitional deacon in 2002 by then-Bishop Vásquez.
As a seminarian, Father Hoang had many opportunities to serve as the master of ceremony at Masses where Archbishop Vásquez presided.
around him.”
Later as a young priest, Father Hoang witnessed how Archbishop Vásquez took time visiting with brother priests at deanery meetings and various diocesan events.
When Father Hoang served as vocations director for the Archdiocese, he discovered that Archbishop Vásquez was an advocate for vocations and appreciated his relatability, prudence and firmness in decision-making.
Going back to the days at St. Mary’s Seminary, those who knew Archbishop Vásquez as a fellow seminarian said they look forward to collaborating with him in this new capacity.
“I remember admiring his beautiful and pastoral way of relating to people,” Father Hoang said. “He always came across as very calm, peaceful, warm and kind-hearted towards others, making you comfortable
Father Thomas Rafferty, director of Ministry to Priests, knew Archbishop Vásquez as a seminarian and discussed his knowledge of the local Church and his agreeable personality.
“He knows the diocese and is a very even-keeled kind of person,” Father Rafferty said.
“He will be a great bishop here.”
The welcome back from local clergy has made for a hopeful beginning to Archbishop Vásquez’s return to Texas’ largest Catholic diocese. †
‘Mother Church’ of Texas stands tall despite storms
HERALD STAFF REPORT
St. Mary Cathedral
Basilica in Galveston reflects generations and centuries of faith
GALVESTON — With its two spires and a restored statue of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, St. Mary Cathedral Basilica stands as a tall Gothic icon that reflects the efforts of many faithful generations of Catholics throughout the centuries on Galveston.
As a cathedral in the Archdiocese, the Cathedral Basilica is one of two seats, also known as a cathedra, of Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez.
Known as the “Mother Church of Texas,” the Cathedral Basilica, located on the corner of 21st and Church streets on Galveston Island, endured many storms since it was built in 1847, including being one of the few Galveston landmarks to survive the 1900 Great Storm.
A $2.7-million restoration effort in 2019 renewed the historic 11-foot, 3,000-pound cast-iron St. Mary statue and the basilica’s exterior and structure, including its roof, two spires and church building itself. Also restored were the ornamental cross, the original 4,000-pound bronze bell, a 100-year-old organ and stained glass windows.
Just over a decade earlier, the historic Cathedral Basilica sustained significant damage during Hurricane Ike in Septem-
ber 2008. The damage from Hurricane Ike — with its five-foot tall storm surge — was so extensive that it took the Archdiocese almost six years to revitalize the church and make it operational again.
Following a $3-million restoration, the interior of the historic church building was completely renovated and returned to full service on Easter Sunday in April 2014. Two other major restorations took place in the 1970s.
“The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston treasures the Cathedral Basilica, the first Cathedral built in Texas, and we wanted to ensure that it be restored to a place where all Catholics are drawn to for prayer and reflection,” said Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, who celebrated the Mass. “It is with great joy that we are able to
ST. MARY CATHEDRAL BASILICA
Part of Holy Family Parish of Galveston and Bolivar 2011 Church St., Galveston www.holyfamilygb.com
re-open such a special church, which also represents the beginnings of the Catholic Church in Texas.”
In 2017, after having served Galveston Catholics for more than 35 years, the Franciscan Friars said farewell to Holy Family Parish during a special June 25 Mass. The Franciscan Friars of the Province of St. John the Baptist had served on Galveston Island dating back to their first assignments ministering to the Spanishspeaking community at Our Lady of Guadalupe in 1980.
On May 4, 1847, Pope Pius IX named St. Mary’s Cathedral as “The Mother Church” of the newly established Catholic Diocese of Galveston, then the only diocese in the state of Texas.“Star of the Sea,” translated from the Latin “Stella Maris,” is a title for the Virgin Mary, and the statue was added to the basilica in 1878.
During the 1900 Storm, the cathedral was the only one of the five Catholic churches in Galveston to escape major damage, though its three-ton bell was blown from its mounting. On the anniversary of the Storm in 1901, a crown of lights was added to the statue of Mary.
In 1968, the cathedral was named to the National Register of Historic Places and a national historic landmark in 1973. On Aug. 2, 1979, Pope John Paul II elevated the cathedral to a “Minor Basilica,” which is an honor given to select churches because of their antiquity or historical importance.
Today, St. Mary Cathedral Basilica is a part of the Holy Family Parish of Galveston and Bolivar. The Cathedral Basilica is also a pilgrim site for the 2025 Jubilee Year. †
PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD
Located at 2011 Church St. in Galveston, St. Mary Cathedral Basilica is considered the mother church of Texas and is first cathedral of the Archdiocese, which was built in 1847.
Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart sees years of prayer, hope and sacraments downtown
HOUSTON — In a message of hope and faith for the opening and dedication of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, located at 1111 St. Joseph Pkwy. in Downtown Houston, sent by Pope Benedict XVI, the pontiff said he prayed that the new cocathedral would be “a sanctuary where almighty God is glorified in His majesty, a center of ecclesial life where the beauty and richness of the Catholic faith proclaimed with power, and a place where the faithful and spiritually nourished, to fulfill their mission as joyful witnesses to the Gospel.”
Following the April 2, 2008, opening and dedication of the Co-Cathedral, its 27,800-square-feet area with available seating for 2,000-plus, the now 15-yearold building continues to echo St. John Paul II’s message and offer God’s people in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and the city’s wider communities a sacred space to gather in communal and private prayer.
The Co-Cathedral is the second seat, or cathedra, of Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez in the Archdiocese.
In his homily during the dedication Mass on the 10th anniversary of the co-cathedral in 2018, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo said, “I beg the Lord Jesus in His Sacred Heart to look down upon us all — on every language, nation, tongue and culture in this Archdiocese. We are many cultures; we are many nations, many languages here. Sisters and brothers, what makes us one people is this altar table.”
Cardinal DiNardo encouraged all to see the co-cathedral, its cross spire reaching 114 feet, as a place open to all: “Friends of any culture, race and nation, you are welcome here, you are welcome in this church — a house on earth receptive to all.”
Also in his homily, Cardinal DiNardo thanked those responsible for making the new co-cathedral a reality, beginning with Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza, who led the Archdiocese until his retirement in 2006.
“If we could, in our imagination, combine Ezra and Nehemiah, we would find a person of spiritual insight, a shepherd and master of practical matters. We have that in Archbishop Fiorenza,” Cardinal DiNardo said. “I want to express my deepest gratitude for the long labor of love that Archbishop Fiorenza has performed in bringing this cathedral to completion.”
Months before the Dedication Mass,
HERALD STAFF REPORT
Clergy line San Jacinto Street outside of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart for a recent Mass. Dedicated in 2008, the Co-Cathedral exists as an oasis of prayer for all seeking Christ.
Archbishop Fiorenza blessed the 23 bells that were installed in the campenile, or bell tower, of the co-cathedral in a Rite of Blessing of the Bells on Dec. 12, 2007.
Archbishop Fiorenza said, “(The bells would) play a very important role in the mission of the Church… to call the people to worship services, to commemorate important events — sometimes joyful events, sometimes tragic events.”
The four “Great Bells” in the carillon are named after foundresses of the original religious communities who serve in the Archdiocese: St. Angela Merici, founder of the Ursuline Nuns who came to the Archdiocese in 1847; Mother Jeanne de Matel, founder of the Sisters of the Incarnate Word (and spiritual foundress of the Sisters of the Charity of the Incarnate Word); Mother Pauline Gannon, O.P, of the Sacred Heart (Houston) Dominican Sisters and Mother Henriette Delille of the Sisters of the Holy Family.
In the years since the bell’s blessings, the campanile rings many times each day and have done so for numerous events.
The co-cathedral’s organ, which was dedicated in 2009, continues to elevate worship during Liturgies and offer outreach. The Opus XIX Pipe Organ features the sound of 5,499 organ pipes and 111 stop knobs and is constructed of seven types of wood. A depiction of the Holy Spirit as a dove sits beneath an
80,000-pound dome atop the building.
Each year at Easter Vigil, catechumens are baptized in the co-cathedral’s baptismal font, which features eight gilded bronze images beneath the font, each drawn directly from the first eight
CO-CATHEDRAL OF THE SACRED HEART
1111 St. Joseph Pkwy., Houston www.sacredhearthouston.org
images of the Prayer for the Blessing of Baptismal Water in the Roman Missal.
Many of the co-cathedral’s distinctive features, including the votive chapels of saints, massive statues of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary, many ornate stained glass windows with a massive 40-foot-high Resurrected Christ, paintings and artistry, were constructed through the support of the people of the Archdiocese and special generosity of many donors.
In July 2020, Father Jeffrey L. Bame was assigned to be administrator and rector of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. In April 2024, the Archbishop Fiorenza Plaza across from the CoCathedral of the Sacred Heart was dedicated and opened, featuring need space, a memorial wall and a statue from the original church grounds.
The Co-Cathedral is also a pilgrim site for the 2025 Jubilee Year. †
PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD
In Central Texas, Archbishop Vásquez leads faithful amid record growth
SPECIAL TO THE HERALD
AUSTIN — Prior to his appointment as Galveston-Houston’s newest archbishop, Archbishop Vásquez first spent 15 years in the Diocese of Austin.
Central Texas has seen exponential growth in population in recent years, with the Austin metro area being one of the fastest-growing areas in Texas. At the end of his episcopacy in Austin, by 2025, there were 700,000 self-identified Catholics in the region, up from 250,000 in 2010. The population boom has been reflected in
ever-growing parish communities and countless building projects to expand existing buildings or build new ones.
During his time in Central Texas, Archbishop Vásquez blessed the newly constructed sanctuaries, including eastern Austin parishes, St. Joseph in Manor, San Francisco Javier in Austin, Sacred Heat and Santa Barbara in Austin, along with the Church of the Visitation in Westphalia, St. Mary’s in College Station, and the chapel at Cedarbrake Catholic
Retreat Center in Temple.
With a continued focus on outreach to our youth and young adults, Bishop Vásquez led the growth of the university Catholic Centers at the University of Texas, Texas State University, Baylor University and St. Mary’s in College Station. He also was elected by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to chair the Committee on Migration. He served as consultant to the USCCB Ad Hoc Committee Against
Racism and served as lead bishop for Region X for the V National Encounter for Hispanic/Latino Ministry (V Encuentro).
As his time in Austin drew to a close, he celebrated a trio of Masses in thanksgiving for his ministry in the Austin Diocese. His final public ministry was to preside over the Rite of Election Liturgy, ushering in the final steps for many people as they continued their journey to join the Catholic Church in the Austin Diocese. †
THE DIOCESE OF PUEBLO, COLORADO CELEBRATES ARCHBISHOP-DESIGNATE JOE S. VÁSQUEZ Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
Congratulations to Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez of the Diocese of Galveston-Houston.
Please know of the prayers and support of the Diocese of Pueblo as you lead your people forward on the road to holiness and grace.
Bishop Stephen J. Berg Diocese of Pueblo, Colorado
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE PROCESSION
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CELEBRATION
LUNAR NEW YEAR MASS
CONSECRATED LIFE SERVICE
RITE OF ELECTION - ST. MARGARET MARY, CEDAR PARK
TEXAS RALLY FOR LIFE MASS
CHURCH OF THE VISITATION DEDICATION MASS, WESTFALIA
Congratulations to our newly appointed Shepherd, Archbishop Joe Vásquez!
All the parishioners of Our Lady of Lavang Church are joyfully giving thanks to God and extending our heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency Bishop Joe Vásquez who has been appointed Archbishop of Galveston-Houston by His Holiness, Pope Francis.
We humbly ask God to continue to bless, protect and give Archbishop Vásquez good health, joy and blessings as he serves God and shepherds the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston in many years to come.
With prayers and best wishes, Our Lady of Lavang Parish
LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION
MATTHEW JEWELL PRIESTLY ORDINATION
ST. MARY’S DEDICATION MASS, COLLEGE STATION
NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS, INDIANAPOLIS
TEXAS RALLY FOR LIFE
A CALL TO FOLLOW
Understanding Archbishop Vásquez’s coat of arms
BY DEACON PAUL J. SULLIVAN • SPECIAL TO THE HERALD
HOUSTON — The Archepiscopal heraldic achievement or Archbishop’s coat of arms is composed of a shield with its charges (symbols), a motto scroll, and the external ornamentation. The shield, which is the central and most important feature of any heraldic device, is described (blazoned) in 12th-century terms. This description is presented as if given by the bearer with the shield being worn on the arm. Thus, where it applies, the terms dexter and sinister are reversed as the device is viewed from the front.
By heraldic tradition, the arms of the Archbishop, who is the “first among equals” of an ecclesiastical province, called a “Metropolitan Archbishop,” are joined, impaled, with the arms of his jurisdiction. In this case, these are the arms of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
These arms are composed of a blue field on which is displayed a scattering (semé) of silver (white) roses. These roses are used to represent the Blessed Virgin Mary, in her title of the Mystical Rose, titular of the Cathedral-Basilica in the See City of Galveston. Upon this symbolism is a red cross of The Faith, with a square center that contains a single silver star to represent Texas, the “Lone Star State.”
For his personal arms, His Excellency Archbishop Vásquez has selected a device that reflects his life as a priest and now as a bishop.
Rendered primarily in Hispanic colors of gold and red to reflect the heritage that has come to him from his parents, Juan and Elvira Vásquez, His Excellency Archbishop Vásquez’s design expresses his deep dedication and devotion to the members of The Holy Family.
Prime among these, of course, is “The Cross,” presented here in red on a gold (yellow) field. It is by way of this cross that Our Savior, Jesus Christ, redeemed the
world and to which Archbishop Vásquez has dedicated himself in the Holy Orders in The Church.
In the lower left of the Archbishop’s shield (base dexter) is a red rosebud with its stem and leaves rendered properly in green. The rose is used to honor Mary, in her
title of Our Lady of Guadalupe, for it was the roses that Blessed Juan Diego carried to the Bishop of Mexico City as the sign of his apparition from the Virgin Mary. It was in carrying the roses in his garment, which also led to her likeness being placed on his tilma, which still hangs in the basilica dedicated to Mary as Queen of Mexico and Empress of The Americas.
In the upper right (chief sinister) is a fleur-de-lis, a special representation of a lily for St. Joseph, Husband of Mary. The lily is used to reflect that the Archbishop was assistant pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Odessa, Texas, pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Ft. Stockton, Texas, and when he was selected to receive the fullness of Christ’s priesthood by being named auxiliary bishop for the Diocese of Galveston-Houston, he was pastor of St. Joseph Parish in San Angelo, Texas.
The fleur-de-lis used here is also special for it is called “Florentine” as it is used in the arms of the city of Florence, Italy. The name of the city, when said in Italian, is “Fiorenza,” the surname of the bishop who laid his hands upon Archbishop Vásquez twice, having ordained him a priest and a bishop.
For his motto, Archbishop Vásquez uses the single word in Spanish, “SÍGUEME.” This word expresses the instruction that Christ gives each of those called by the name of Christian, “Follow Me,” for it is what it means to be a Christian, as one who follows Christ.
The achievement is completed with external ornaments, which are a bejeweled gold Archepiscopal processional cross that has two cross-members, that is placed behind and extends above and below the shield, and a pontifical hat, called a “Gallero,” with its 10 tassels, in four rows, on either side of the shield, all in green. †
Father Mark Hebert contributed to this report.
UPCLOSE
The history of a coat of arms
BY CATHERINE VIOLA • TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
HOUSTON — The personal coat of arms of the Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez represents his heritage, his Texas ties and his ministry in the priesthood.
WHAT IS A COAT OF ARMS?
Heraldry may seem like an outdated practice, evoking images of castles, knights and ladies.
The coat of arms was first developed and used in medieval times as a way of identifying families, individuals or clerics. In many ways, a coat of arms is like an intricate logo, used to help brand a person or family and give insight into who they are and where they came from.
Historic family shields contained many images, including swords, animals, stars, shapes, plants and other symbols.
Ecclesiastical heraldry serves a similar purpose. It’s a quick way to identify bishops and cardinals.
AROUND THE SHIELD
There are several decorative elements around the shield that comprise the coat of arms. These items include the ecclesiastical hat, cross, tassels and motto.
The use of an ecclesiastical hat on a coat of arms probably originated with the red hats worn by cardinals as vestments starting in 1245. Catholic cardinals have red hats and tassels atop their shields, while bishops have green hats.
The number of tassels is another indicator of rank or hierarchy. Bishops
have six tassels, archbishops have 10 tassels and cardinals have 15.
A motto, usually of the bishop’s or cardinal’s choosing, is included on a ribbon under the shield. This is a statement chosen by the bishop that speaks strongly to his beliefs.
Archbishop Vásquez’s motto is“Sígueme” which translates to: “Follow me.”
THE SHIELD
The shield itself is the heart of the coat of arms. These are unique to each bishop and usually include symbols that “tell the story” of that individual. Symbols vary greatly, but may speak to his interests, background or former service.
For his personal arms, Archbishop Vásquez utilizes gold and red colors to reflect his Hispanic lineage with a large red cross as the main element. His arms also include a red rose symbolic of Our Lady of Guadalupe and a red fleur-de-lis — or lily — commonly associated with St. Joseph. Archbishop Vásquez has chosen design elements that give us insight to his long journey of faith and his devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Holy Family.
As ordinary of the Archdiocese, Archbishop Vásquez’s coat of arms is joined with the Archdiocesan coat of arms. The Archdiocesan arms include a blue field with roses for the Blessed Virgin Mary and a red cross with a single star to represent Texas. †
ST. MARY’S SEMINARY Houston, Texas
Welcome & Best Wishes
Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez ’84
The faculty, staff and seminarians of St. Mary’s Seminary are pleased to congratulate you on the occasion of your installation as the new Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. Be assured of our prayers as you continue your apostolic ministry. Mary, Queen of the Clergy, pray for us!
A Bishop’s FAQ: Explaining the terminology
TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD STAFF REPORT
From crosier to zucchetto, here’s what you need to know
HOUSTON — On March 25, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez is set to be installed as the third archbishop of Galveston-Houston.
During a solemn Mass at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, the papal nuncio reads a bull signed by the Roman Pontiff, and then Archbishop Vásquez accepts his crozier, sits on his cathedra and officially becomes Galveston-Houston’s 11th ordinary and the new metropolitan archbishop of the ecclesiastical province of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, which is home to six suffragan diocese in south and east Texas.
If the preceding paragraph has you a bit lost, you’re not alone.
Episcopal transitions — which is the arrival of a new bishop — include mention of a lot of terms steeped in
Church history, tradition and canon law. But if you’re not a Church scholar, you can still follow along during the transition events.
A life of a bishop is filled with words that aren’t always used in everyday conversation. Here are some of the important terms you’ll encounter and what they mean:
► AUXILIARY
BISHOP
An auxiliary bishop is an assistant to the arch/bishop of the diocese to which they are assigned. Generally, their responsibilities are defined by the arch/bishop. Auxiliary bishops are assigned “Titular” Sees, which are historical dioceses that are no longer in existence.
► ARCHBISHOP
A title automatically given to bishops who govern archdioceses. However, the title is also given as a personal rank to certain bishops who serve in the papal diplomatic corps or in certain Vatican offices.
► CATHEDRA
The bishop’s chair and a symbol of his authority in a particular diocese. The word “cathedra” means “chair,” and is where the term “cathedral” is derived. While most diocese have just one cathedral, the church where the archbishop’s chair resides, in Galveston-Houston there are two: St. Mary Cathedral Basilica in Galveston and the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston. Once Archbishop Vásquez takes his seat on the cathedra at the Co-Cathedral, he becomes the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston.
► CLERICAL COLLAR
A white, detachable collar worn by all ranks of clergy: bishops, priests, deacons and brothers.
► CROSIER
Also called a pastoral staff, the crosier, about five to six feet in length, is a hooked staff that signifies his office as bishop and chief shepherd of his people. Often hand carved and made of wood or metal, they are unique to each bishop; the crosier often reflects his personality and spirituality.
► ARCHBISHOPEMERITUS
When a new archbishop is appointed, the archdiocesan see officially becomes “vacant” until the new archbishop is installed, and the former archbishop assumes the title of “emeritus” immediately. Galveston-Houston now has one bishop with this title: Archbishop Emeritus Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, whose resignation was accepted by the pope on Jan. 20. Before his death in 2022, Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza also
A purple, square-shaped hat with silk trim and tuft and three ridges across the crown.
Bishops are named by the pope and, by way of special ordination, receive what the Church calls “the fullness of the priesthood.” Bishop is the highest order of ordained ministry in the Catholic Church. A bishop heads the diocese and may be assisted by auxiliary bishops.
A prelate — usually a bishop, but not necessarily — who has been appointed a member of the College of Cardinals by the pope. Cardinals are the pope’s closest advisers and often serve in highranking Vatican roles or as the heads of large dioceses. Cardinals wear distinctive red hats and vestments, which signify the possibility of martyrdom on behalf of Christ and his Church. Cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in a conclave to elect the pope. Cardinal DiNardo, who served as Galveston-Houston’s archbishop from 2006 to 2025, is a member of the College of Cardinals.
A purple, floor-length garment with red cuffs on the sleeves. The Roman style has 33 buttons (symbolic of the years of the life of Jesus). Cardinals and bishops also have a “house cassock” that is black with red or purple piping, worn for non-liturgical occasions.
Archbishop Vásquez wears the miter, a pectoral cross, an episcopal ring and carries a crosier. All of these items are outward symbols a Bishop wears or carries to reflect his office as shepherd of a diocese.
► CURIA
The central administrative and judicial offices of a diocese. In Galveston-Houston, the curia helps the archbishop to carry out his ministry in certain functions, with most of these coworkers working out of the Archdiocesan Chancery building in downtown Houston and the St. Dominic Chancery in the Texas Medical Center. The word is also used in reference to the Roman Curia, which comprises the various Vatican dicasteries and offices that advise and assist the pope. Bishop Dell’Oro is the Moderator of the Curia.
► EPISCOPAL RING
A bishop’s ring is the symbol of his espousal to the Church.
► EPISCOPAL MOTTO
Upon their ordination to the episcopacy, bishops may choose an episcopal motto, usually a short passage from Scripture that serves as a guide and a model for their ministry. Archbishop Vásquez episcopal motto is “SÍGUEME,” which expresses the instruction that Christ gives each of those called by the name of Christian “Follow Me” for it is what it means to be a Christian, as one who follows Christ. Archbishop Emeritus Cardinal DiNardo’s episcopal motto is “Ave Crux Spes Unica,” which means “Hail, O Cross, Our Only Hope.”
► INSTALLATION
The official inauguration of ministry for a bishop of a diocese. Because Archbishop Vásquez is already a bishop — he served as bishop of Austin since 2010 and previously as auxiliary bishop in Galveston-Houston from 2001 to 2010 — he won’t be “ordained” as Galveston-Houston’s archbishop, but installed. This happens when the papal nuncio (below) reads the decree from Pope Francis and Archbishop Vásquez sits on his episcopal seat (known as a “cathedra”) for the first time at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart.
► METROPOLITAN SEE
In the Latin Church, dioceses are grouped into “provinces,” which usually include one archdiocese (called the “metropolitan” see) and several smaller dioceses (called “suffragan” sees). A province usually includes an archdiocese and several smaller dioceses in a geographical region. The Metropolitan Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston is the metropolitan see, which also includes the six other dioceses in east and south Texas: Austin, Beaumont, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Tyler and Victoria in Texas.
► MITER
In the opening procession and at other times during the Liturgy the bishop wears a miter, a tall, peaked, folding cap with two lappets, short cloth strips, or tails, attached to the back panel. While the miter is ordinarily made of linen or silk, it may have gold or silver bands or embroidery embellishing it. Normally, it is white, or alternative colors reflecting the Liturgical season. It is always removed when the bishop or pope prays.
► MOZETTA
A short, shoulder cape worn by bishops over their choir
Welcoming Our New Shepherd: Understanding the Installation Mass of Archbishop Vásquez
BY ADAM BRILL • SPECIAL TO THE HERALD
On March 25, the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston gathers at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in great joy to witness the installation of Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez as the ninth bishop and third metropolitan archbishop of our local Church. This historic moment is more than a ceremonial transition; it is a profound sign of continuity in the apostolic mission entrusted to the Church by Christ Himself.
The installation of a new archbishop is not a Sacrament like ordination but an administrative and liturgical act in which Archbishop Vásquez takes canonical possession of our Archdiocese.
It begins with the Rite of Reception at the door of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. At the Co-Cathedral’s doors, he’ll knock three times,
cassock and rochet in choir dress. It is made of the same material and color as the cassock.
► ORDINARY
In normal usage, an ordinary is a bishop (or another prelate) who has been given jurisdiction and authority over a particular Church. In some larger dioceses where multiple bishops are assigned (such as auxiliary bishops), the “ordinary” is the bishop to whom governance of the diocese is given. In the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston, the “ordinary” is the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston.
► PALLIUM
A circular white woolen band worn around an archbishop’s neck and shoulders in liturgical ceremonies. A pallium is given by the pope to Latin-rite archbishops who head metropolitan sees as a symbol of their authority over the ecclesiastical province and their unity with the pope. If an archbishop is transferred from one metropolitan see to another, he receives a new pallium. Archbishop Vásquez is set to receive his pallium from the pope during the feast of SS. Peter and Paul, June 29.
► PAPAL NUNCIO
Simply put, the papal nuncio is the pope’s representative. Usually a cardinal, currently Christophe Cardinal Pierre, the papal nuncio is a Vatican diplomat with the rank of ambassador (in this case, the pope’s ambassador to the United States). He is responsible for the Holy See’s relations with the Church in the country where he is stationed as well as its diplomatic relations with that country. During Archbishop Vásquez’s installation Mass, Cardinal Pierre reads the official decree (known as a “papal bull”) from Pope Francis appointing Archbishop Vásquez as archbishop of Galveston-Houston.
► PAPAL BULL
The most solemn and weighty form of a papal letter or decree. The name is derived from the Latin word “bulla,” which refers to the disk-like papal seal attached to such documents. After the papal nuncio reads the
symbolizing his arrival as our shepherd.
The rector will greet him with a crucifix to kiss and holy water to sprinkle — a sign of his unity with Christ and us.
Then, amidst hymns of joy, he’ll process into the Co-Cathedral, where the Apostolic Letter from Pope Francis will be read. This letter, a mandate from the successor of Peter, officially entrusts him with our care. This letter will be presented to the consultors, clergy and faithful, signifying his canonical possession of the Archdiocese. Upon receiving it, Archbishop Vásquez will be led to the cathedra, the bishop’s chair, which is a visible sign of his teaching and governing authority. When he sits, applauded by us all, he becomes our archbishop — not just in title, but in mission.
The installation of Archbishop Vásquez is not just an event for clergy or
bull during the installation Mass, Archbishop Vásquez shows it to the faithful of the Archdiocese as proof of his appointment as their chief shepherd.
► PECTORAL CROSS
A cross, worn around the neck and suspended by either a green and gold cord when wearing liturgical vestments or on a chain and placed in the jacket pocket in daily clerical clothing.
► ROCHET
A knee-length, pleated white vestment worn over the cassock and made of linen or similar material.
► SEE
The seat of a bishop or pope’s authority and jurisdiction. When referring to diocesan bishops, the “see” is usually the diocese over which he presides and includes the diocesan boundaries.
► SUFFRAGAN
A diocese in an ecclesiastical province that is not the metropolitan archdiocese. Bishops of these dioceses are called “suffragan” bishops. For example, the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston is the metropolitan archdiocese, and its suffragan dioceses are Austin, Beaumont, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Tyler and Victoria in Texas.
► VICAR
This term has many uses in the Catholic Church. The main use, however, is to refer to someone deputized by the bishop or a religious superior to carry out certain functions on his behalf. Another use is a parochial vicar, a priest who assists a pastor at a parish. Bishop Dell’Oro is the Vicar General of the Archdiocese.
► ZUCCHETTO
The bishop wears a purple zucchetto, a small skull cap like the yarmulke. If the bishop is a cardinal, his zucchetto is red. If he is the pope, it is white.
- Definitions adapted from the USCCB, OSV News stylebook and the Official Catholic Dictionary.
Church leaders; it is an event for all of us. It is a moment to reaffirm our faith, to pray for our shepherd, and to renew our commitment to Christ and His Church. Just as St. Peter was entrusted with the care of Christ’s flock, so too is our new archbishop called to serve with love, humility and courage.
Why does this happen?
Because the Church is a living body, and a bishop is its heart in a diocese. As the Ceremonial of Bishops says, he’s the “first steward of the mysteries of God” here, presiding over the Eucharist with priests, deacons and all of us for the first time. It is a celebration of unity as our diversity is woven into one family under his leadership.
For me, the most inspiring part is what it calls us to do: engage. This isn’t a passive event. We’re not just spectators but participants in a sacred dialogue.
When we acclaim “Thanks be to God” after the Apostolic Letter, we affirm our consent, our “yes” to God’s plan. When representatives from our Archdiocese greet him, they carry our hopes and prayers forward. And when he preaches his first homily, we’re invited to listen with open hearts, ready to follow where he leads us in faith.
Archbishop Vásquez, with his motto “Sígueme” (“Follow Me”), echoes Christ’s call. Having served Austin faithfully, he now brings his wisdom and love to us. Let’s prepare by praying for him, attending one of the Masses of Welcome, watching the livestream of the Installation Mass, or uniting in spirit by praying for him.
Together, let’s welcome our new archbishop with joy and commitment, ready to walk with him toward the heart of our Savior. †
From Galveston to Galveston-Houston
GALVESTON — The history of the Catholic Church in Texas began with the arrival of Spanish explorers and missionaries in the 16th century. Missions throughout Texas and the Southwest were established by Franciscan friars for the care of souls, serving the native people as well as new arrivals from Europe and other parts of North America.
Following the Texas War of Independence in 1836, Catholics in the new Republic found themselves cut off from Church authorities in Mexico and appealed to Rome for assistance. In response to these appeals, Pope Gregory XVI designated Texas as an Apostolic Prefecture in 1839, with Father John Timon, C.M., as prefect apostolic.
Father Jean Marie Odin, C.M., was named the vice prefect. When Father Odin arrived in Texas in 1840, there were five parishes for the entire Republic, with a Catholic population estimated at 12,000 living primarily in central and east Texas. Soon, settlers from the United States, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Poland and all other parts of Europe came to Texas. In 1841, Pope Gregory XVI raised the Prefecture of Texas to the level of a Vicariate Apostolic and Father Odin was ordained a bishop to care for
the Vicariate.
Five years later, in 1847, Pope Pius IX created the Diocese of Galveston, and Bishop Odin was named the first bishop of Galveston. St. Mary Church, the first parish in Galveston, became the Cathedral of the new diocese and the “Mother Church” of Texas Catholics. The new diocese was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of her Immaculate Conception.
Bishop Odin continued to serve the Diocese of Galveston until 1861 when he was named the Archbishop of New Orleans. He was succeeded by the Right Reverend Claude Marie Dubuis, who like Bishop Odin was a native of France. Bishop Dubuis saw the diocese through the turmoil of the Civil War years.
Following the war, additional parishes, hospitals and schools were established throughout the diocese. In 1874, the Diocese of Galveston was divided for the first time when the western half of the state was established as the Diocese of San Antonio and the Apostolic Vicariate of Brownsville (now the Diocese of Corpus Christi). This first division showed the expansion of the Church in Texas.
Upon Bishop Dubuis’ retirement to France in 1881 due to poor health, the
ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CATHOLIC CHURCH WELCOMES
TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
ST. MARY’S CATHEDRAL BASILICA IN GALVESTON CIRCA 1860
Right Reverend Nicholas A. Gallagher became the apostolic administrator and later the third bishop of Galveston. Under his guidance, the diocese continued to grow through both migration and immigration. Additional priests and religious were invited to the Diocese, to serve the increasingly diverse Catholic population. In response to the Church’s growth, a fourth diocese, Dallas, was erected in 1890. At the time of Bishop Gallagher’s death in 1918, there were over 70,000 Catholics and 120 parishes in the Diocese of Galveston.
Succeeding Bishop Gallagher was Bishop Christopher Byrne, who served as bishop for 32 years. During his episcopacy, Houston began to grow dramatically, with people moving to the area to work in the oil and gas industry, the healthcare field, and the new Port of Houston. The number of churches in Houston grew from eight to 28 and the number of Catholics in the diocese increased from 70,000 to 250,000. In 1948, the creation of the Diocese of Austin took further territory from the original Diocese of Galveston.
Bishop Byrne was succeeded by the Most Reverend Wendelin Nold, the first native Texan to be bishop of the diocese. Throughout Bishop Nold’s administration, he stressed Catholic education. Catholic high schools were built as well as new facilities in Houston for St. Mary Seminary, which was founded in La Porte in 1901. In 1959, Bishop Nold transferred the administration of the Diocese from Galveston to Houston. The diocese was then re-designated as the “Diocese of Galveston-Houston” and Sacred Heart Church in Houston was named the CoCathedral, reflecting the growth of the Houston metropolitan area. With the relocation of the administration, a new
chancery building was built in Houston, and the administrative offices were transferred there in 1963 from Galveston.
Due to progressive blindness and other health issues, Bishop Nold received a coadjutor bishop, a bishop who succeeds automatically when the current bishop retires or dies. Bishop John Morkovsky, the bishop of Amarillo, was named as coadjutor bishop and apostolic administrator of the diocese in 1963. Upon Bishop Nold’s formal retirement in 1975, Bishop Morkovsky, who had seen the diocese through the changes of Vatican II, succeeded him as the sixth bishop of the diocese. Texas continued to experience tremendous growth, which led to further divisions of the diocese, with the creations of the Dioceses of Beaumont (1966), Victoria (1982), and Tyler (1987).
Bishop Morkovsky served the diocese until he retired in 1985, when he was succeeded by Bishop Joseph A. Fiorenza, the bishop of San Angelo. Bishop Fiorenza, the first native of the diocese to serve as the diocesan bishop, shepherded over 1.2 million Catholics, with new arrivals from Africa, Southeast Asia, Central and South America increasing the Catholic population. Bishop Fiorenza focused on welcoming these immigrants, as well as addressing social issues such as homelessness. As he approached the retirement age of 75, he was the first bishop of the Diocese to request a coadjutor bishop. Bishop Daniel DiNardo, then the bishop of Sioux City, was named coadjutor bishop in March 2004.
On Dec. 29, 2004, then-pope St. John Paul II created a second Archdiocese in Texas, raising the Diocese of Galveston-Houston to the status of a Metropolitan Archdiocese. The Diocese of San Antonio, created from the original Diocese of Galveston in 1874, was the first to be raised to an archdiocese in 1926. By 2004, there were 15 dioceses in Texas, making the Texas province the largest in the world, and necessitating the creation of a second archdiocese. Archbishop Fiorenza was named the first Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, and Bishop DiNardo the coadjutor archbishop.
Archbishop DiNardo became ordinary of the Archdiocese on Feb. 28, 2006, with the retirement of Archbishop Fiorenza. Pope Benedict XVI elevated Archbishop DiNardo to the position of cardinal on Nov. 24, 2007. Six months later, on April 2, 2008, the Cardinal dedicated the new Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston, built with the generous gifts of the faithful of the Archdiocese. In the years since, the Cardinal has led the Archdiocese through years of continued growth, with the establishment of new parishes and schools, despite the challenges of natural disasters, including hurricanes, tornadoes and the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the Archdiocese is home to more than 1.7 million Catholics in 10 counties. It is the largest Roman Catholic diocese in Texas, and the fifth largest in the United States, with 146 parishes, seven missions, 59 Catholic schools and many ministries providing healthcare and other services for those in need. A new chapter in our history opens with the appointment and installation of Archbishop Joe Vásquez, the ninth bishop and third Archbishop of Galveston-Houston. †
HERALD ARCHIVES
A group of children are seen with Bishop Nicholas Gallagher after receiving their First Communion sacrament at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Houston in 1911.
The Ordinaries of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston
KEY DATES OF ARCHDIOCESAN HISTORY
1600s Spanish explorers establish the first Catholic missions in Texas.
1836 Texas gains independence from Mexico, creating the Republic of Texas.
1840 The first parish in what is now the Archdiocese opens in Brazoria, St. Joseph on the Brazos.
1839 Pope Gregory XVI designates Texas as an Apostolic Prelature.
1841 - 1842 Pope Gregory XVI elevates the Prelature of Texas to a Vicariate Apostolic; Father Jean Marie Odin is ordained bishop to oversee the new Vicariate.
1847 Pope Pius IX creates the Diocese of Galveston with Bishop Odin as the first Bishop of Galveston. At this time, the Diocese included all of Texas. The first Catholic school in Texas, Ursuline Academy in Galveston, is formally established.
1848 St. Mary Cathedral in Galveston is dedicated, the first cathedral church in the State of Texas.
1874 Texas is split into three dioceses: Galveston, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi.
1890 The Diocese of Dallas is created.
1901 St. Mary’s Seminary opens in La Porte, Texas
1947 The Diocese of Galveston reaches its centennial, but following the Texas City explosion disaster, the celebrations are canceled.
1948 The Diocese of Austin is created.
1954 St. Mary’s Seminary moves to its current location on Memorial Drive.
1959 The Diocese of Galveston is re-designated as the Diocese of Galveston-Houston in preparation for moving the administration from Galveston to Houston. Sacred Heart Church in Houston is named the Co-Cathedral of the Diocese.
1963 A new chancery is built in downtown Houston and the administrative offices of the diocese move there.
The Dominican Friars of the Southern Dominican Province welcome Archbishop Joe Vásquez to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
look forward to ministering with you in the Archdiocese.
1966 The Diocese of Beaumont is created.
1979 St. Mary Cathedral is named a minor basilica.
1982 The Diocese of Victoria is created.
1987 The Diocese of Tyler is created.
2004 Texas is now divided into 15 dioceses. The Diocese of Galveston-Houston is elevated to an Archdiocese.
2007 Archbishop Daniel DiNardo is named a Cardinal.
2008 The new Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is dedicated in Houston.
2022 The Archdiocese celebrates its 175th anniversary of its founding in 1847 with Masses and celebrations.
2025 Pope Francis accepts Cardinal DiNardo’s retirement, and Bishop Joe S. Vásquez is named the third Archbishop of the Archdiocese.
Wishes to Archbishop-Designate Joe S. Vasquez
Right Rev. J. M. Odin, C.M., D.D. 1847 - 1861
Right Rev. Nicholas Gallagher, D.D. 1892 - 1918
Most Rev. Wendelin J. Nold, S.T.D. Most Rev. John L. Morkovsky, S.T.D.
Daniel Cardinal DiNardo 2006 - 2025
Most Rev. Joe S. Vásquez 2025 - Present
A history of coadjutors and auxiliary bishops
In the 178 years of its history, the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston has been led by eight bishops and archbishops. Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez will be the ninth. However, he is also among those bishops who have served in other positions in the Archdiocese, not as the Ordinary or the bishop responsible for the diocese.
There have been four coadjutor bishops appointed in those years. A coadjutor bishop has the automatic right of succession as Ordinary of the Diocese when the current bishop retires or passes away, rather than waiting for the pope to name a new bishop. The first coadjutor bishop for our Archdiocese was Bishop Pierre Dufal, C.S.C., appointed in May 1878 during the administration of Bishop Claude Dubuis. He had to resign the appointment for health reasons just two years later. The other three coadjutor bishops succeeded as Ordinary in their turns: Bishop Wendelin Nold as the fifth bishop of Galveston in 1950; Bishop John Morkovsky as the sixth bishop of Galveston-Houston in 1975, and Daniel Cardinal DiNardo as the second Archbishop of Galveston-Houston in 2006. It was not until January of 1979 that the first auxiliary bishop was appointed to assist the Ordinary in the administration of the Diocese. Father John McCarthy
See BISHOPS, page 34
TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
Bishop John McCarthy 1979 - 1985
Bishop Enrique San Pedro, SJ 1986 - 1989
Bishop James Tamayo 1993 - 2000
Bishop Curtis Guillory 1987 - 2000
Bishop Joe S. Vásquez 2002 - 2010
Bishop Vincent M. Rizzotto 2001 - 2006
Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS 2021 - Present
Bishop George A. Sheltz 2006 - 2021
was a native son, born in Houston and a graduate of St. Mary’s Seminary. He served in the Galveston-Houston Diocese until 1985 when he was transferred to become the bishop of Austin. Bishop McCarthy remained in the Austin diocese until his death in August 2018.
Soon after his transfer, Father Enrique San Pedro, S.J., was named an auxiliary bishop in March 1986. A native of Cuba and a Jesuit priest, he was assigned to seminaries in Vietnam, the Dominican Republic and the Fiji Islands before coming to Galveston-Houston. After five years of service here, he was named the bishop of Brownsville in August 1989. Bishop San Pedro died in Brownsville in July 1994.
The third auxiliary bishop named for the Diocese was Father Curtis Guillory, S.V.D. Then-Bishop Joseph A. Fiorenza, the Ordinary, stated that his appointment in December 1987 recognized “the very significant contribution Black Catholics have made to the life of the Church in these parts.” Bishop Guillory was named the bishop of Beaumont in June 2000 after 13 years of service in the Diocese. His retirement as Ordinary of the Beaumont diocese came in June 2020.
Monsignor James Tamayo, a priest of the Diocese of Corpus Christi, was appointed the fourth auxiliary bishop for
Having lost two auxiliary bishops to new appointments in 2000, the Diocese waited a year for its next auxiliary bishop, Father Joe Vásquez, a priest of the Diocese of San Angelo. His appointment came in November 2001, which thenBishop Fiorenza described as “an early Christmas gift.” He was named the fifth bishop of Austin in 2010, the fourth bishop of that diocese to serve first in GalvestonHouston, and he is now the first auxiliary
He passed away on Jan. 17, 2021. Like Bishop Rizzotto, the seventh auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese was a native Houstonian, a graduate of St. Thomas High School and of St. Mary’s Seminary. Monsignor George Sheltz was appointed an auxiliary bishop in February 2012. He submitted his resignation to the pope when he reached the age of 75 in 2021, and he died in December of that
Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, was named the eighth auxiliary bishop of GalvestonHouston on May 18, 2021. Born in Italy, he entered the Congregation of the Somascan Fathers and was later ordained there. He came to Texas in 1992, serving as a pastor, vocations director for his congregation, and director of ministry to priests for the Archdiocese. As auxiliary bishop, he is currently the chancellor and
moderator
A D M U L T O S A N N O S !
The Most Reverend John O. Barres Bishop of Rockville Centre
the Most Reverend William F. Murphy, Bishop Emeritus, and the Auxiliary Bishops, Clergy, Religious, and Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Rockville Centre congratulate
THE MOST REVEREND JOE S. VÁSQUEZ
and the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston on the Installation of His Excellency as the 9th Bishop and 3rd Archbishop of Galveston-Houston.
of the curia for the Chancery, as well as the secretariat director of administration. † BISHOPS,
HERALD FILE PHOTOS
At left and below right, a St. Mary’s Seminary reunion in 2017 saw the return of several Texas bishops, including several former Galveston-Houston auxiliary bishops. At right, Auxiliary Bishop George A. Sheltz celebrates an adult confirmation Mass.
May God bless you abundantly with wisdom, strength, and grace! In fraternal unity,
The Most Reverend Wm. Michael Mulvey, STL, DD Bishop of Corpus Christi Bishop of Corpus Christi
The Most Reverend Edmond Carmody, DD Bishop Emeritus of Corpus Christi
Sharing the gift of the episcopate of Texas
A special lineage of Galveston-Houston clergy have served Texas and beyond
HOUSTON — When the Diocese of Austin was created in 1948, it took 14 counties and more than 16,000 square miles from what was then the Diocese of Galveston. It also took a priest of the Galveston diocese as the first bishop of the new diocese.
Over the next 62 years, this pattern would repeat four times. When then-Auxiliary Bishop Joe S. Vásquez was installed in Austin in March 2010, he was the fourth of the five bishops of Austin to come from what is now the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
In a twist, our new Archbishop now becomes the first bishop of Austin to return to Galveston-Houston.
The pattern was first set with Monsignor Louis Reicher, a native of Ohio, who was ordained for the Diocese of Galveston in 1918. Within a year of his ordination, he was named the chancellor of the Galveston diocese, a position he held for 30 years. Bishop Reicher’s episcopal ordination as bishop of Austin took place on April 14, 1948, at St. Mary Cathedral in Galveston, where he also had been ordained to the priesthood. Bishop Christopher Byrne, whom he had served as chancellor for those 30 years, was the main celebrant. Bishop Reicher was installed as the bishop of the new diocese at St. Mary Cathedral in Austin on May 13, 1948.
The next bishop of Austin was also a former chancellor of the Diocese of Galveston. Monsignor Vincent Harris
TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
succeeded Bishop Reicher as chancellor in 1948, serving in that position for 22 years.
A native of Conroe, he was ordained for the Diocese of Galveston in 1938. When the Diocese of Beaumont was created in 1966, in the fourth major division of the original Diocese of Galveston, Monsignor Harris was appointed the first bishop of the new diocese. Five years later, in 1971, he was named the coadjutor bishop of Austin. Bishop Harris became the second bishop of Austin on Nov. 16, 1971.
The third bishop of Austin, Bishop John McCarthy, was the first Houston-born priest raised to the episcopacy. Ordained for the Diocese of Galveston in 1956, he was assigned to parishes in Houston and Pasadena.
He later served as executive director of the Texas Catholic Conference and on committees at the National Conference of Catholic Bishops. In 1979, Bishop McCarthy was named an auxiliary bishop of the Diocese of Galveston-Houston, the first auxiliary in the diocese’s history. When Bishop Harris retired in 1985, Bishop McCarthy was appointed to replace him, becoming the third bishop of Austin on Dec. 19.
While the episcopal links between Galveston-Houston and Austin may be the most obvious, the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston has sent bishops to nine of the 15 Texas dioceses, including San Antonio, San Angelo, Beaumont, El Paso, Fort Worth and Victoria.
The Archdiocese, which originally encompassed the entire state of Texas, has given not just territory to its daughter dioceses but continues to share the gifts it has also received from those who have generously accepted the call to ministry and service in their vocations as priests and bishops. †
Congratulations, Archbishop Joe Vásquez!
St. Bartholomew Catholic Church in Katy joyfully congratulates Archbishop Joe Vásquez on his appointment as the new Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
We offer our prayers and heartfelt blessings as you embark on this new chapter of leadership and service. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide and strengthen you in shepherding God’s people.
CNS PHOTO BY DONALD R. WINSLOW
Retired Bishop John E. McCarthy of Austin, Texas, celebrates Mass in 2012. Bishop McCarthy is among a long line of clergymen who have led dioceses throughout Texas and beyond.
Congratulations, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez
ON BEHALF OF THE HIGH SCHOOLS OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR MINISTRY!
Local ministry leaders excited to welcome back ‘one of the family’
HOUSTON — Hilda Ochoa remembers the first time she met Archbishop Joe Vásquez. It was in 2002 inside the downtown Chancery building, and Ochoa, the Mission Office director, was standing outside of Bishop Joseph A. Fiorenza’s office.
“A young man dressed in jeans and wearing a warm, friendly smile approached,” Ochoa remembers. “At first, I thought he must be a seminarian, but he introduced himself as the ‘designated auxiliary bishop,’ Joe S. Vásquez. And what a surprise! As he began to speak, I realized that our diocese was truly being blessed with someone with energy and a deep connection to the Hispanic community. As a part of the growing Hispanic community, I was filled with pride, hope and satisfaction, knowing that our needs would be taken into consideration even more.”
Bishop Vásquez would be installed as ordinary of the Diocese of Austin in 2010; earlier this year, it was announced he was returning to Archdiocese — this time, as the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston. His Mass of Installation is on March 25 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston.
BY JONAH DYCUS • TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
“His experiences (since 2002) have expanded his vision,” Ochoa said, noting his roles as chancellor, vicar general and moderator of the curia when he was auxiliary bishop in Galveston-Houston,
in addition to serving as bishop of Austin for the last 15 years.
It is the connection with the Hispanic community in the local Church that initially linked Lazaro Contreras to
then-Bishop Vásquez. Contreras, the director of Hispanic Ministry for the Archdiocese, was an associate director in the office when Archbishop Vásquez was
HERALD FILE PHOTOS
Above, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez smiles as a mariachi band plays during his 50th birthday celebration at the Downtown Chancery in 2007. At right, Archbishop Vásquez greets retired Monsignor Albert Beck during a gathering with retired priests. Monsignor Beck died in 2013.
in Galveston-Houston as an auxiliary bishop and vicar for Hispanics.
“(Our office) was given the opportunity to engage frequently with him and grow in that pastoral relationship serving the people of God and, in our case, the fast-growing Catholic population of Hispanic/Latino descent,” Contreras said. “And he was truly involved. He would always listen to what the people say — (about) their concerns, their hopes and aspirations.”
Archbishop Vásquez’s willingness to listen resonated with Contreras.
“When he came in as a bishop, some leaders asked him what kind of changes he would be implementing, and his response was something that resonates with me to this day: ‘I want to listen to the people and learn from them.’ That kind of response is something that is wise and prudent to do when in ministry — to listen and learn from the people and ministries before making any changes,” Contreras said.“In fact, it is the nature of the Church, as Pope Francis has said — to be synodal, to journey together and listen to one another in mission,” he said. “Archbishop Vásquez is of a very humble and pastoral personality and approach. He will be a great example for all of us as we engage with one another as we do ministry.”
Sister Kevina Keating, CCVI, recalls working with then-Bishop Vásquez when she was superintendent of Catholic schools in Galveston-Houston from 2007 to 2013.
“He loves Catholic education” she said. “He was very collaborative and supportive with great commitment to future planning for our Catholic schools. He was not afraid of the difficult decisions and was a creative problem solver. I recall numerous meetings where we worked hand in hand to celebrate successes and to address challenges for our schools.”
Sister Keating said Archbishop Vásquez was always present at Catholic school gatherings, taking time to visit with students and teachers and offer words of encouragement.
“Personally, I always remember his kindness and willingness to listen,” she said.
The current superintendent of Catholic Schools, Mazie McCoy, Ed.D., vividly remembers then-Bishop Vásquez always having a smile on his face when he served as the local auxiliary bishop. At that time, she was principal of St. Mary of the Purification Catholic School in Houston, and his name frequently came up during Inner-City Catholic School meetings as
being an advocate for Catholic schools.
“During a recent Texas Superintendents’ Meeting in Austin, Bishop Vásquez stopped by simply to say ‘hi’ and welcome us all — he still had a smile on his face, and I remembered thinking how wonderful it was for him to take the time to say hello to us,” McCoy said. “I am overjoyed for our Catholic schools and our Archdiocese overall to begin this new chapter with Archbishop Vásquez as our shepherd. My prayers are with him and (Daniel) Cardinal DiNardo as they each continue their journeys.”
Sister Keating describes Bishop Vásquez’s leadership style as “versatile, approachable, sincere and humble.”
“He is well able to handle big occasions but equally willing to respond to simple yet meaningful requests which were not in the limelight,” she said. “His dedication to the broader community has always impressed me. He demonstrates an exceptional ability to lead with compassion, wisdom and a deep understanding of the Church’s mission. In the midst of it all, he has a great sense of humor.”
Citing a solid foundation of mentorship and collaboration with Archbishop
Fiorenza and Cardinal DiNardo — along with his own diverse and rich strengths and experiences, Sister Keating said Archbishop Vásquez will bring “a broad bilingual, bicultural outlook with openness to innovative approaches to the changing needs of our community.”
“He is a true servant leader,” she said. “His humility and unwavering faith have always been at the core of his leadership,” she said. “He cares for those around him, from the smallest child in the classroom
to the elderly parishioner.”
Ochoa says she feels the same sense of encouragement and hope she experienced back when Archbishop Vásquez first arrived in Galveston-Houston in 2002.
“We have been blessed with strong and compassionate leadership in Archbishop Fiorenza and Cardinal DiNardo,” Ochoa said. “I am encouraged to know that our new archbishop will continue in this spirit, returning as ‘one of the family.’” †
The U.S. Province of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans) congratulates Archbishop-Designate Joe S . Vásquez
Welcome back to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
The Spiritans, who have been in Houston since 1970, will be praying for Archbishop Joe and look forward to collaborating in mission and hope!
S PIRI TA N S
HERALD FILE PHOTOS
Archbishop Vásquez speaks to a group of Catholic school students at St. Mary of the Purification School in Houston in January 2008. Catholic school leaders recall the Archbishop being a strong advocate for Catholic schools.
Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez talks with a Hurricane Katrina evacuee from New Orleans before celebrating Mass at the George R. Brown Convention Center on Sept. 4, 2005, in Houston. More than 1,300 evacuees from Hurricane Katrina were being sheltered at the center.
DEAR ARCHBISHOP VÁSQUEZ...
HOUSTON — School students from Catholic schools around the Archdiocese took some class time to greet Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez by writing and drawing letters of welcome to the new archbishop of Galveston-Houston.
The cards and notes came in all different sizes and content. Many included religious imagery of doves, symbols and depictions of the Eucharist, Rosaries and crosses, while some drew pictures of what they thought Archbishop Vásquez would look like in his episcopal vestments.
Others gave recommendations of places to eat around town (“I want to recommend going to Chick-Fil-A. The chicken nuggets and waffle fries are super good! I would also get the ice cream with the cone!”) and suggested he check out the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to ride some of the carnival attractions, play midway games and “eat all the funnel cake that mom and dad let me!”
Students also shared with the new archbishop what they liked about being Catholic: “We love singing in Church and listening to the daily Gospels in our classes!” ... “We love Mass and the Rosary!”
One group shared their honest excitement about meeting Archbishop Vásquez in the future and said, “I am glad you are our archbishop because: “I hope you are able to do what you did in Austin.”... “You have been in Houston before.” ... “We know you will do your best.” ... “You will lead our community towards unity.”
Read on for more heartfelt wishes from young students to their new archbishop, or visit our photo gallery at www.archgh. org/tch to see more. As one class wrote: “We are praying and welcome you back! We can’t
The Regis School of the Sacred Heart welcomes you back to Houston, Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez ! Our community wishes you many blessings in the years ahead! WELCOME BACK!
ARCHBISHOP VÁSQUEZ
Congratulations and Blessings in your ministry as Archbishop
UNA CARTA DE ARZOBISPO VÁSQUEZ
Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas: Estoy sumamente honrado por la confianza que el Santo Padre ha depositado en mi para servir como arzobispo.
Sigo los pasos de ocho pastores que han servido al pueblo de esta Arquidiócesis generosamente y con amoroso cuidado. Me entusiasma regresar a la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston, una de las diócesis más diversas y dinámicas del país, donde yo inicié mi ministerio episcopal hace 23 años.
Mi lema episcopal es “Sígueme”; estas palabras vienen del Evangelio cuando Jesús llama a Sus apóstoles a seguirlo. El los llama, y a nosotros también, a dejarlo todo y seguirle. Ruego para que juntos podamos ser fieles discípulos de Cristo, depositando nuestra confianza siempre en El.
B I S H O P O S C A R C A N T Ú A N D
T H E D I O C E S E O F S A N J O S É ,
B I S H O P O S C A R C A N T Ú A N D
C A L I F O R N I A O F F E R T H E I R
ministerios y comunidades. Al comenzar esta importante misión, le ruego al Espíritu Santo que me ayude a escuchar y aprender para poder servirles mejor.
En este Año Jubilar, el Papa Francisco nos recuerda que, como peregrinos de esperanza, miramos a Dios, quien es la fuente de paz y gozo. Que este Año Santo sea una bendición para todos y fortalezca nuestra fe y valentía de confiar en el Señor.
T H E D I O C E S E O F S A N J O S É ,
B E S T W I S H E S A N D
C A L I F O R N I A O F F E R T H E I
R C H
Anhelo especialmente servir junto a mis hermanos sacerdotes que se sacrifican y brindan fielmente cuidado pastoral al pueblo de Dios. Aprecio a nuestros diáconos, cuyo ministerio a menudo se realiza discretamente y a veces pasa desapercibido. Estoy profundamente agradecido por nuestros hombres y mujeres consagrados, cuya dedicación da un poderoso testimonio de sus vidas de fe y de servicio. Finalmente, me regocijo por nuestros fieles que viven su fe Católica a diario y sirven en nuestras parroquias,
Que el Cuerpo y la Sangre de Cristo, la fuente y cumbre de nuestra fe Católica nos alimenten y nos sostengan para continuar Su obra en nuestro mundo actual. Que por la intercesión de nuestra patrona, María, bajo su advocación de la Inmaculada Concepción, nos acerquemos cada vez más a su Hijo, nuestro Señor Jesucristo. †
The community of St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church congratulates you on your appointment as Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston Houston!
Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez
¡La comunidad parroquial de San Marcos el Evangelista le felicita en su nombramiento como Arzobispo de la Arquidíocesis de Galveston Houston! MANAGING
Questions about
UNA CARTA DE OBISPO DELL’ORO
POR OBISPO ITALO DELL’ORO, CRS • OBISPO AUXILIAR DE GALVESTON-HOUSTON
Estimado Arzobispo Joe Vásquez, ¡Bienvenido de regreso a la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston! Lo recuerdo como si hubiera sido la semana pasada, la noche de tu ordenación episcopal en el Centro Católico Carismático. Había casa llena, muchísimos sacerdotes y fieles. El Obispo Joseph A. Fiorenza tan orgulloso como nunca y el joven sacerdote apenas en sus 40s, próximo en convertirse en obispo, ambos sonriendo gozosos. Entonces comenzó el rito de ordenación, y llegó a la unción del Espíritu Santo por la efusión del Santo Crisma sobre aquel siendo ordenado, tú. Pareciera como si el Obispo Fiorenza se regocijara mucho mientras continuaba derramando el óleo sagrado sobre tu cabeza, un tanto indiferente a cuanto fluía por todos los lados, hasta que tu cabeza quedo empapada. Desde mi lugar, otra imagen me vino a la mente, coincidente con lo que veían mis ojos. Aquella del profeta Samuel ungiendo al joven pastor David, sobre quien, según la traducción de la Nueva Biblia de las Américas, “Y el Espíritu del Señor vino poderosamente sobre David desde aquel día en adelante.” ¡Date prisa, ándale, apúrate, apresúrate Espíritu Santo, y llena la vida de este joven sacerdote para que vaya y proclame con palabras, obras y en los Sacramentos, la vida, la verdad y el camino que es Jesucristo! Apenas unos meses antes yo había comenzado mi nueva actividad en
la promoción de vocaciones para los Padres Somascos. Luego, a tu llegada, te involucraste en el ministerio Hispano y en el ministerio juvenil y de jóvenes adultos. Posteriormente yo me involucré con el ministerio sacerdotal. Así, por los siguientes ocho años, sirviendo tanto al Arzobispo Fiorenza como después al Cardenal Daniel DiNardo, tuve la fortuna de interactuar contigo frecuentemente, conociendo así al amable y sonriente hombre de Dios, el hombre reflexivo, responsable y abierto a las aportaciones de los demás, al guía que perseveró con determinación una vez tomada la decisión. Veo como has permitido que el plan de Dios se entreteja en los acontecimientos de tu vida. Fuiste ordenado sacerdote por el Obispo Fiorenza en San Angelo en 1984. Después fuiste nombrado obispo auxiliar de Galveston-Houston el 23 de enero del 2002 por el Obispo Fiorenza, quien también te ordenó como su obispo auxiliar. Cuatro años, en su mayoría de ministerio pastoral, siguieron hasta que su sucesor inmediato, el entonces arzobispo y ahora Cardenal DiNardo, te presentó con otros cuatro años de ministerio administrativo enriquecedor. Después de 15 años en Austin, hoy regresas como el tercer Arzobispo de Galveston-Houston, el segundo sucesor de Fiorenza. Mientras tanto, la ciudad y la Arquidiócesis han crecido en población y diversidad. Hay nuevos árboles y sus frutos. El huerto es el mismo que
The Archdiocese has open positions in our Schools, Parishes and the Chancery.
era cuando te fuiste hace 15 años, pero ha crecido y se ha diversificado, y sigue produciendo buenos frutos.
¡Bienvenido de nuevo Arzobispo Joe! Quizás desde tiempos inmemoriales, este realmente estaba destinado a ser tu hogar ante la casa del Padre. Mientras tanto, yo también he sido inundado por el Espíritu Santo y he experimentado los efectos arrolladores de un evento tan trascendental.
Todavía en Houston, sirvo en tu mismo
papel administrativo y pastoral bajo la atenta mirada de nuestro mentor común, el Cardenal DiNardo, y estoy esperando que tú tomes el liderazgo de esta hermosa parte de la Iglesia. Espero reanudar mi colaboración contigo tal como lo hice hace 20 años, y confío que la fe, la esperanza y la caridad seguirán extendiéndose por muchos años más. Bentornato, Arcivescovo Joe! †
Welcomes the Most Reverend Joe Vásquez as the new Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
¡Bienvenido, Arzobispo Vásquez!
Radio María Una sola radio, una sola misión.
Reflexiones: el arzobispo Fiorenza dijo que el arzobispo Vásquez era ‘autentico’
HOUSTON — Cuando la Diócesis de Austin recibió la noticia de que tendría un nuevo obispo en 2010, el arzobispo Joseph A. Fiorenza, entonces ordinario de la Arquidiócesis de GalvestonHouston, escribió un mensaje para felicitar al entonces Obispo Joe Vásquez por su nombramiento.
“¿Qué puede esperar la gente… de su nuevo obispo, Joe S. Vásquez?”, escribió. “Pronto se darán cuenta de que él es, como se suele decir, ‘el auténtico’. Es un obispo que amará a los sacerdotes y a la gente de la diócesis con el corazón de un verdadero pastor. Atenderá a todos con alegría y con una hermosa capacidad para escuchar con sensibilidad y comprensión. Tiene una gran compasión por los pobres, los inmigrantes, los enfermos y los ancianos”.
El arzobispo Fiorenza, quien ordenó al hoy arzobispo Vásquez sacerdote y obispo auxiliar, falleció el 19 de septiembre de 2022.
Dijo que el arzobispo Vásquez “tiene una visión positiva de la vida y una personalidad muy agradable. Sonríe con facilidad y se ríe a menudo con
POR JAMES RAMOS • TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD
compañeros de trabajo y amigos.”
Y continuó: “He tenido la oportunidad de observarle mientras crecía en sus responsabilidades episcopales y como
administrador competente. Tiene una capacidad serena y eficaz para relacionarse con sacerdotes y personas de todos los orígenes y de todas las etnias, razas e idiomas. Habla español e italiano con la misma facilidad que inglés. Domina el lenguaje del amor evangélico. Se crio a base de tacos y enchiladas, pero también le encanta la comida italiana. Espero que haya buenos restaurantes italianos en Austin.”
“Su carácter relajado y su estilo amigable no deberían llevar a pensar que es fácil de manipular. Eso sería un grave error. En una situación apropiada, será amable, pero firme, y cuando sea necesario, podrá tomar decisiones difíciles sin notable ansiedad. Como administrador, no tomará decisiones precipitadas, pero tampoco tardará en
FOTO DE ARCHIVO
El Arzobispo Joseph A. Fiorenza entrega el Libro de los Evangelios al Arzobispo Joe S. Vásquez durante su ordenación episcopal como obispo auxiliar de Galveston-Houston en 2002.
tomar las decisiones necesarias”
El arzobispo Fiorenza alabó el amor que el arzobispo Vásquez le tiene a la Iglesia: “Ante todo, el obispo Vásquez ama la Iglesia Católica y gobernará con firmeza y compasión; enseñará con claridad y fidelidad al Magisterio y celebrará los sacramentos con gozo, guiando a todos hacia un crecimiento en la santidad de Jesucristo. Como dije, él es ‘verdaderamente auténtico’, que es lo que la Iglesia desea en un obispo.”
Refiriéndose a su larga y entrañable relación con el arzobispo Fiorenza, el arzobispo Vásquez dijo que era “una gran bendición haber conocido y trabajado con el arzobispo Fiorenza”.
“Él fue mi mentor y un entrañable amigo. Tuve el honor de ser ordenado al sacerdocio y al episcopado por el arzobispo Fiorenza,” dijo. “Era un hombre humilde y un verdadero pastor que amaba servir a la gente; se sentía especialmente cercano a los pobres, los inmigrantes y los que sufren. También se preocupaba profundamente por sus sacerdotes, siempre teniendo su bienestar en mente, pero al mismo tiempo esperando que fueran hombres de servicio y fieles a la Iglesia. Él amaba su sacerdocio, y gracias a él, yo trato de vivir la misma vida de servicio y preocupación por los necesitados, así como él lo hizo.”
El arzobispo Fiorenza inicialmente fue Obispo de San Angelo de 1979 a 1985 y luego arzobispo de Galveston-Houston desde 1985 hasta 2006. †
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Conozca al arzobispo Joe S. Vásquez
El arzobispo Vásquez nació el 9 de julio de 1957 en Stamford, Texas, hijo de Juan y Elvira Vásquez. Es el mayor de seis hijos y tiene tres hermanos: Robert Vásquez, Samuel Vásquez, y James Vásquez; y dos hermanas: Cynthia Martínez y Consuelo Garza.
Asistió a las escuelas públicas de Stamford y Abilene y luego estudió Teología en la Universidad de Santo Tomás de Houston de 1976 a 1980. Asistió a la Universidad Gregoriana, Colegio Norteamericano, en Roma, de 1980 a 1985. Fue ordenado sacerdote de la diócesis de San Angelo el 30 de junio de 1984 por el arzobispo Joseph A. Fiorenza.
En la diócesis de San Angelo, fue párroco asociado de la parroquia de San José en Odessa de 1985 a 1987; párroco de la parroquia de San José en Fort Stockton de 1987 a 1997; y párroco de la parroquia de San José en San Angelo de 1997 a 2002.
En enero de 2002, el arzobispo Vásquez fue nombrado obispo auxiliar de la arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston. El arzobispo Vásquez fue vicario general y canciller de la arquidiócesis, supervisando las operaciones administrativas de la diócesis más grande de Texas y la que entonces era la undécima diócesis más grande de Estados Unidos.
También fue vicario episcopal para los hispanos y enlace para la juventud durante sus años en Galveston-Houston.
El arzobispo Vásquez es actualmente consultor del Comité de Actividades Pro-Vida de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos (USCCB)
Sacco
and
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y obispo principal de la Región X para el V Encuentro Nacional para el Ministerio Hispano/Latino (V Encuentro). Anteriormente ha formado parte de los siguientes comités de la USCCB: presidente del Comité de Migración; Comité Administrativo; y Comité de Libertad Religiosa; y como consultor del Comité de Justicia Internacional y Paz, del Comité de Justicia Doméstica y Desarrollo Humano, del Subcomité de Asuntos Hispanos; y del Comité Ad Hoc contra el Racismo.
Anteriormente también formó parte de la junta directiva de Catholic Relief Services y de Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc. (CLINIC).
El arzobispo Vásquez fue instalado como el quinto obispo de la Diócesis de Austin el 8 de marzo de 2010, y fue instalado como el tercer arzobispo de la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston el 25 de marzo. †
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Cardenal DiNardo: De Pittsburgh y Roma a Iowa y al Estado de la Estrella Solitaria
HOUSTON — Durante más de 21 años, Su Eminencia el Cardenal Daniel DiNardo dirigió la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston como su arzobispo metropolitano y pastor de sus más de 1.7 millones de católicos (y los más de 7.1 millones de personas dentro de la Arquidiócesis) y 146 parroquias y 54 escuelas distribuidas en 8,880 millas cuadradas.
Mientras el arzobispo Joe S. Vásquez se preparaba para asumir el liderazgo de la Arquidiócesis de manos del Cardenal DiNardo, dijo: “El Cardenal DiNardo tiene muchos dones - es un excelente homilista, tiene una mente brillante, un buen sentido del humor y su mayor placer es servir a la Iglesia.”
El arzobispo Vásquez expresó su gratitud al Cardenal DiNardo por su “excelente liderazgo,” y añadió,“me siento honrado de seguir sus muchos años de servicio entregado a esta Archidiócesis”.
“Estoy muy agradecido porque fue mi mentor cuando yo era obispo auxiliar lo que me ayudó a fortalecer mi comprensión de lo que debe ser un obispo”, dijo. “A lo largo de los años, he
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buscado su consejo, y siempre ha sido generoso con su tiempo. Rezo para que continúe ayudándome mientras pastoreo la Archidiócesis, y dependeré de su sabiduría, conocimiento y experiencia. El cardenal DiNardo es un buen amigo y me ha apoyado a lo largo de mis años como obispo, por lo que siempre le estaré agradecido.”
Nacido en Steubenville, Ohio, el 23 de mayo de 1949, y criado al otro lado de la frontera estatal con sus tres hermanos en Castle Shannon, cerca de Pittsburgh, el Cardenal DiNardo asistió a la escuela
primaria St. Anne y a la escuela jesuita Bishop’s Latin antes de matricularse en el Seminario de San Pablo y en la Universidad Duquesne de Pittsburgh.
Mientras estudiaba en el Seminario de San Pablo de Pittsburgh, Dan DiNardo fue admitido en el programa de estudios Basselin de la Universidad Católica de América en Washington, un programa de filosofía con honores a través del cual obtuvo la licenciatura y el máster por la vía rápida. También se licenció en Sagrada Teología en la Pontificia Universidad Gregoriana y en el Instituto Patrístico Augustinianum de Roma.
Fue ordenado sacerdote en la diócesis de Pittsburgh el 16 de julio de 1977 y trabajó como párroco, profesor en el seminario, director espiritual y en la cancillería.
De 1984 a 1991, trabajó en Roma como miembro del personal de la Congregación para los Obispos, como director de Villa Stritch (la casa para el clero americano), y como profesor adjunto en el Pontificio Colegio Norteamericano. A su regreso a Pittsburgh en 1991, el entonces padre DiNardo ejerció como secretario
adjunto para la educación, enseñó en el programa de formación permanente para sacerdotes y fue director espiritual adjunto en el Seminario de San Pablo. En 1994, fue nombrado para abrir una nueva parroquia, San Juan y San Pablo, en el creciente barrio de Franklin Park.
Fue nombrado obispo coadjutor de Sioux City, Iowa, y ordenado allí obispo en octubre de 1997. Como lema episcopal adoptó: Ave Crux Spes Unica, que significa “Viva la Cruz, nuestra única esperanza”. Sucedió al obispo saliente de Sioux City en noviembre de 1998.
Fue nombrado obispo coadjutor (más tarde arzobispo coadjutor) de GalvestonHouston en enero de 2004 y sucedió al arzobispo Joseph A. Fiorenza el 28 de febrero de 2006. El 29 de junio de 2006 recibió el palio de manos del Papa Benedicto XVI. Fue elevado al Colegio Cardenalicio en noviembre de 2007 en la Basílica de San Pedro de Roma. Fue designado titular de la Iglesia de San Eusebio de Roma.
Durante su estancia en GalvestonHouston, su liderazgo le llevó a vivir momentos y retos únicos. En 2011, se
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encontró cara a cara con los astronautas a bordo de la Estación Espacial Internacional, a los que saludó junto al Papa Benedicto XVI. Acompañó a sus compatriotas tejanos en las grandes tormentas y huracanes que destruyeron miles de hogares y dañaron parroquias de toda la región.
En 2008, el cardenal DiNardo fue nombrado delegado estadounidense en el XII Sínodo Mundial de Obispos, convocado por el papa Benedicto XVI.
Como miembro del Sagrado Colegio, fue Cardenal Elector en el Cónclave Papal de 2013, que vio la elección del Papa Francisco a la Sede de Pedro. En noviembre de ese mismo año, fue elegido por sus hermanos obispos Vicepresidente de la Conferencia Episcopal de Estados Unidos (USCCB) por un período de tres años. Posteriormente, el cardenal DiNardo ocupó el cargo de presidente de la USCCB desde noviembre de 2016 hasta noviembre de 2019.
Como presidente, el cardenal DiNardo asistió al Sínodo de los Obispos sobre los jóvenes, la fe y el discernimiento vocacional convocado por el papa Francisco en octubre de 2018. El cardenal DiNardo moderó uno de los grupos de trabajo y también pronunció un discurso ante todo el Sínodo de Obispos. En su discurso pronunciado el 16 de octubre de 2018 ante todo el Sínodo, el cardenal DiNardo utilizó su lema episcopal – “Viva la cruz, nuestra única esperanza”- como título de su discurso.
“El acontecimiento central para nuestra fe y nuestra vida es reconocer, interpretar y elegir la invitación a abrazar la cruz”, dijo a sus compañeros obispos.
Mientras la Iglesia católica y sus miembros fortalecen su compromiso de llegar a los jóvenes, ayudándoles “mediante el diálogo a discernir su camino en el mundo y en la Iglesia para tener una vida más profunda y humana”, no pueden ignorar la cruz, dijo el cardenal DiNardo.”
“Jesús pide a todos los que encuentra que ‘me sigan’”, dijo. “Su invitación es fuerte, no débil; decidida, no anémica”.
Al continuar el Sínodo, el cardenal DiNardo dijo que la cruz y el significado de Cristo crucificado eran las piezas clave que faltaban. Promover una pastoral juvenil centrada en alentar un “proceso de crecimiento, una maduración gradual en la fe”, tiene ventajas, dijo, pero puede llevar a una situación en la que “los grandes temas espirituales podrían verse disminuidos”.
El cardenal DiNardo señaló cómo, a lo largo de los Evangelios, Jesús se revela gradualmente “mientras llama a los Doce,
FOTOS DE ARCHIVO DEL HERALDO Arriba, el Daniel Cardenal DiNardo saluda a un grupo de estudiantes de una escuela católica durante un evento vocacional en 2009.
A la derecha, se ve al Cardenal DiNardo (tercero desde la izquierda) con miembros de su familia en Roma luego de su elevación al Colegio Cardenalicio por el Papa Benedicto XVI el 23 de noviembre de 2007 en el Vaticano.
a la multitud y a nosotros a la cruz, a un Mesías crucificado”.
“Jesús evangeliza a través de su identidad como Señor crucificado”, dijo el cardenal. “Es imposible no ver esto a lo largo de los Evangelios”.
El cardenal DiNardo dijo a los miembros del Sínodo que no deben dudar en presentar la verdad de la fe a los jóvenes porque ellos “no tienen miedo. Están dispuestos a un desafío constante para reivindicar su identidad”.
Una llamada “vaga” no atraerá a nadie, dijo. El documento final del Sínodo debe “hacer una llamada como la de Jesús. Debe dar testimonio de la cruz”.
El cardenal DiNardo también asistió como vicepresidente de la Conferencia Episcopal de Estados Unidos a la XIV Asamblea General Ordinaria del Sínodo de los Obispos sobre la Familia, convocada por el papa Francisco en octubre de 2015.”
Un cardenal de la estrella solitaria
Que el primer cardenal nombrado para una diócesis de Texas fuera el
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Quienes le han conocido en Pittsburgh y en Sioux City, Iowa, donde fue obispo coadjutor y luego jefe de la diócesis desde 1997 hasta diciembre de 2004, elogiaron al cardenal DiNardo como un predicador dotado.
Tras trasladarse a Sioux City como obispo coadjutor en 1997, el cardenal DiNardo sucedió al obispo anterior cuando éste se jubiló en 1998. En Sioux City, fue conocido por su gran atención a las vocaciones, el fortalecimiento de los programas de educación religiosa para adultos, su énfasis en el valor de las escuelas católicas y la creación de programas de ambiente seguro para los niños.
El cardenal DiNardo fue nombrado obispo coadjutor de la diócesis de Galveston-Houston en enero de 2004, poco antes de que Galveston-Houston fuera elevada a archidiócesis a finales de 2004. Sus colaboradores de siempre alabaron el liderazgo del cardenal DiNardo en Galveston-Houston.
La hermana Celeste Trahan, CCVI, dijo estar muy agradecida a Dios por el Cardenal DiNardo, y por ser el líder congregacional de las Hermanas de la Caridad del Verbo Encarnado, expresó su gratitud especialmente “por su colaboración con nosotras como Congregación al proporcionarnos presencia y ministerios”.
arzobispo de Galveston-Houston, Daniel N. DiNardo, que en aquel momento tenía 58 años, no fue una sorpresa para quienes le conocían como amigos y colegas.
El cardenal DiNardo fue uno de los 23 cardenales nombrados el 17 de octubre de 2007 por el Papa Benedicto XVI y recibió su birrete rojo en un consistorio celebrado el 24 de noviembre de 2007 en el Vaticano. Se convirtió en el primer jefe de una diócesis de Texas en ser nombrado cardenal y el único cardenal del sur de EE. UU.
Como cardenal, fue miembro del Pontificio Consejo para la Cultura, del Pontificio Consejo para la Pastoral de los Emigrantes e Itinerantes y del Pontificio Consejo para la Economía. Actualmente forma parte del Consejo de Administración de la Universidad Católica de América en Washington, D.C.
Señaló cómo la congregación fue fundada en 1866 por el segundo obispo de Galveston, Claude M. DuBuis, y desde entonces, “hemos caminado con fe al servicio de los pobres y marginados, en esta diócesis y en muchas otras a las que hemos sido llamadas”, dijo. “Que Dios conceda al cardenal DiNardo abundantes bendiciones al comenzar la transición a cardenal arzobispo emérito”.
El 23 de mayo de 2024, el cardenal DiNardo cumplió 75 años, la edad a la que el derecho canónico exige que los obispos presenten su renuncia al Papa. Entonces, el 20 de enero, el Papa Francisco aceptó la renuncia del cardenal DiNardo, lo que llevó al nombramiento del arzobispo Vásquez como nuevo ordinario de Galveston-Houston. Se espera que el cardenal DiNardo continúe residiendo y ejerciendo su ministerio en la archidiócesis de Galveston-Houston. Tiene una hermana gemela, Margaret, un hermano mayor, Thomas, y una hermana menor, Mary Anne. †
From Pittsburgh and Rome to Iowa and
the Lone Star State
Cardinal DiNardo’s journey of faith,
leadership
For more than 21 years, His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo led the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston as its metropolitan archbishop and pastor to its 1.7 millionplus Catholics (and the more than 7.1 million people within the Archdiocese) and 146 parishes and 54 schools spread over 8,880 square miles.
As Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez prepared to assume leadership of the Archdiocese from Cardinal DiNardo, he said, “Cardinal DiNardo has many gifts — he is an excellent homilist, has a brilliant mind, a good sense of humor and especially enjoys serving the Church.”
Archbishop Vásquez expressed his gratitude to Cardinal DiNardo for his “excellent leadership, and I am humbled to follow after his many years of dedicated service to this Archdiocese.”
DiNardo attended St. Anne grade school and the Jesuit-run Bishop’s Latin school before enrolling in St. Paul Seminary and Duquesne University in Pittsburgh.
While in college at St. Paul Seminary in Pittsburgh, Dan DiNardo was pegged for the Basselin scholars program at The Catholic University of America in Washington, an honors philosophy program through which he earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees on a fast-track pace. He also received degrees of Sacred Theology from both the Pontifical Gregorian University and the Patristic Institute Augustinianum in Rome.
“I appreciate his mentorship when I was auxiliary bishop, which helped me to strengthen my understanding of what a bishop should be,” he said. “Over the years, I have sought his counsel, and he has always been generous with his time. I pray that he will continue to assist me as I shepherd the Archdiocese, and will depend on his wisdom, knowledge and experience. Cardinal DiNardo is a good friend and supported me throughout my years as a bishop, for which I will always be grateful.”
A native of Steubenville, Ohio, born May 23, 1949, and raised just across the state line with three siblings in Castle Shannon near Pittsburgh, Cardinal
Thank you for your many years of service. We wish you continued success!
He was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Pittsburgh on July 16, 1977, and served as parish pastor, seminary professor, spiritual director and in the chancery.
From 1984 to 1991, he worked in Rome as a staff member for the Congregation for Bishops, as director of Villa Stritch (the house for American clergy), and as adjunct professor at the Pontifical North American College.
Upon his return to Pittsburgh in 1991, then-Father DiNardo served as assistant secretary for education, taught in the ongoing formation program for priests and was assistant spiritual director at St. Paul Seminary. In 1994, he was named to start a new parish, Sts. John and Paul, in the growing borough of Franklin Park. He was appointed coadjutor bishop of Sioux City, Iowa and ordained there as a bishop in October 1997. As his Episcopal motto he adopted: Ave Crux Spes Unica, meaning “Hail the Cross, Our Only Hope.”
He succeeded the retiring bishop of Sioux City in November 1998.
He was named coadjutor bishop (later coadjutor archbishop) of GalvestonHouston in January 2004 and succeeded Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza on Feb. 28, 2006. On June 29, 2006, he received the pallium from Pope Benedict XVI. He was elevated to the College of Cardinals
in November of 2007 at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. He was designated the titular Church of Sant’Eusebio in Rome.
While ordinary in Galveston-Houston, his leadership brought him through a variety of unique moments and challenges. In 2011, he came face to face
See DINARDO, page 52
and Holy Travel welcome you to the Archdiocese of
FATHER DAN DINARDO
CNS PHOTO/L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO VIA REUTERS
Daniel Cardinal DiNardo of Galveston-Houston receives the red biretta from Pope Benedict XVI during the consistory in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican on Nov. 24, 2007. Cardinal DiNardo was among the 23 churchmen from around the world elevated to the rank of cardinal.
Dear Daniel Cardinal DiNardo,
Dear Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez, Elias Hazboun, KHS
Galveston-Houston!
A NOTE FROM BISHOP DELL’ORO
Farewell, Cardinal DiNardo!
That’s how we usually say to a departing person.
Certainly, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo is leaving the governance of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston after 21 years of service, first as coadjutor bishop and then as the archbishop, then elevated as a cardinal in 2007.
During 19 years as the Ordinary of the Archdiocese, Cardinal DiNardo has fostered a reverent approach to the Sacraments, both during their liturgical celebrations and
with astronauts aboard the International Space Station, greeting them alongside Pope Benedict XVI. He stood with fellow Texans as they weathered many major storms and hurricanes that destroyed thousands of homes and damaged parishes around the region.
In 2008, Cardinal DiNardo was appointed as a U.S. delegate to the 12th World Synod of Bishops, convened by Pope Benedict XVI.
As a member of the Sacred College, he served as a Cardinal-Elector in the Papal Conclave of 2013, which saw the election of Pope Francis to the See of Peter.
In November of the same year, he was elected by his brother bishops as the Vice-President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) for a three-year term. Cardinal DiNardo then served as President of the USCCB from November 2016 to November 2019.
As president, Cardinal DiNardo attended the Synod of Bishops on Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment convened by Pope Francis in October 2018. Cardinal DiNardo moderated one of the working groups and also gave an address to the entire Synod of Bishops. In his speech given Oct. 16, 2018, to the entire Synod, Cardinal DiNardo used his episcopal motto — “Hail O cross, our only hope” — as the title of his speech.
“The central event for our faith and life is recognizing, interpreting and choosing the invitation to embrace the cross,” he told his fellow bishops.
when taught in catechetical programs. He has updated the administrative structure of the “Curia” with a different role for the auxiliary bishop and the other clergy, religious and laypeople involved.
He has continued the welcoming disposition of the Church toward the immigrants coming from Latin America, Asia and Africa, as well as those coming from the U.S., handling the growth in number and diversity of our faithful. Among them, he welcomed priests and religious who have also come from all over the world, specially from Africa and Asia. He has dedicated new churches and parish buildings, as well the
As the Catholic Church and its members strengthen their commitment to reaching out to young people, helping them “by dialogue to discern their way in the world and the Church for a deeper, more human life,” they cannot ignore the cross, Cardinal DiNardo said.
“Jesus asks everyone He meets to ‘Follow me,’” he said. “His invitation is strong, not weak; decisive, not anemic.”
As the Synod continued, Cardinal DiNardo said the cross and the meaning of Christ crucified were the key missing pieces. Promoting youth ministry focused on encouraging a “growth process, a gradual maturing in faith,”has advantages, he said, but it can lead to a situation where “major spiritual themes might be diminished.”
Cardinal DiNardo noted how, throughout the Gospels, Jesus gradually reveals Himself “as he beckons the Twelve, the crowds and us to the cross, to a crucified Messiah.”
“Jesus evangelizes through His identity as the crucified Lord,” the cardinal said. “It is impossible not to see this throughout the Gospels.”
Cardinal DiNardo told Synod members they should not hesitate to present the truth of faith to young people because they “are not fearful. They are willing for a sustained challenge to claim their identity.”
A “vague” call will not attract anyone, he said. The Synod’s final document must “issue a call like Jesus’ call. It must witness to the cross.”
Cardinal DiNardo also attended the XIV Ordinary General Assembly of the
establishment of new parishes.
Like his predecessor, Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza, Cardinal DiNardo has also served the Church in the U.S. as USCCB president, as well as the Universal Church in a Conclave and as a member of the Finance Council of the Vatican for several years.
He held the wheel of our local Church steady through rough water and had to deal with a health challenge in the meantime.
Cardinal DiNardo has navigated all of this without losing his mind or his patience, without raising his voice or being cowed, but rather maintaining the dignity of the faithful servant of the Gospel, the Church, and the
“Jesus evangelizes through His identity as the crucified Lord. It is impossible not to see this throughout the Gospels.”
DANIEL CARDINAL DINARDO
Synod of Bishops on the Family, convened by Pope Francis in October 2015, as vicepresident of the U.S. bishops’ conference.
A LONE STAR CARDINAL
That the first cardinal named to a Texas diocese would be Galveston-Houston Archbishop Daniel N. DiNardo, who was 58 at the time, was no surprise to those who knew him as friends and colleagues. Cardinal DiNardo was one of 23 cardinals named Oct. 17, 2007, by Pope Benedict XVI who received his red hat in a Nov. 24, 2007, consistory at the Vatican. He became the first head of a Texas diocese to be named a cardinal and the only cardinal from the southern U.S.
As a cardinal, he served as a member of the Pontifical Council for Culture, the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People, the Pontifical Council for the Economy. He
See DINARDO, next page
pope. Now, the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston moves onward on solid ground.
Cardinal DiNardo will remain in Houston, a sign of his love for this local Church, and will continue to office in the Chancery building. Thus, he will share his pastoral zeal helping with Confirmations and any other activity to which he will be invited.
After mentoring the young Bishop Vásquez, the dear Bishop George A. Sheltz and me, he will continue to share his wisdom with us.
No need to say farewell, therefore.
Rather, I could say, “arrivederci, ci vediamo presto!” †
DINARDO, from page 51
is currently on the Board of Trustees of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.
Those who have known him in Pittsburgh and in Sioux City, Iowa, where he was coadjutor bishop and then head of the diocese from 1997 until December 2004, praised Cardinal DiNardo as a gifted preacher.
After moving to Sioux City as coadjutor bishop in 1997, Cardinal DiNardo succeeded the previous bishop when he retired in 1998. In Sioux City, he was known for his strong focus on vocations, the strengthening of adult religious education programs, his emphasis on the value of Catholic schools and for creating safe-environment programs for children.
Cardinal DiNardo was appointed coadjutor bishop of the Diocese of Galveston-Houston in January 2004, shortly before Galveston-Houston was elevated to an archdiocese late in 2004.
Longtime collaborators lauded Cardinal DiNardo’s leadership in Galveston-Houston.
Sister Celeste Trahan, CCVI, thanked God for Cardinal DiNardo, and as congregational leader of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, she expressed their gratitude especially “for his collaboration with us as a Congregation in providing presence and ministries.”
She noted how the congregation was founded in 1866 by Galveston’s second bishop, Claude M. DuBuis, and since then, “we have walked with faith in the
service of the poor and marginalized, in this diocese and in many others to which we were called,” she said. “May God grant Cardinal DiNardo abundant blessings as he begins the transition of being CardinalArchbishop Emeritus.”
On May 23, 2024, Cardinal DiNardo turned 75, the age at which canon law requires bishops to submit their resignation to the pope. Then on Jan. 20, Pope Francis accepted Cardinal DiNardo’s resignation, leading to Archbishop Vásquez’s appointment as GalvestonHouston’s new ordinary.
Cardinal DiNardo is expected to continue to reside and minister in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. He has a twin sister, Margaret, an older brother, Thomas, and a younger sister, Mary Anne. †
Compassionate Help in Times of Need
Like many seniors, Betty lives on a fixed income and can’t always afford groceries. But she doesn’t go hungry because she gets food from Catholic Charities.
We are here for Betty and thousands of other individuals and families who visit our food pantries in Fort Bend, Galveston and Harris counties. They take home fresh produce, meat and dairy as well as nutritious nonperishables so they can live healthy lives.
In the past five years
Our three food pantries in Houston, Galveston and Richmond distributed: Families visited our pantries
21,771,067 pounds of food
358,834 times Just last year
4,475,497 pounds of food
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston brings hope and help to our most vulnerable neighbors, regardless of their faith, thanks to generous donors, parishes and volunteers.
DINARDO, from previous page
AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE
LENTEN FISH FRYS
Contact parishes for latest information. FRIDAYS OF LENT
CHRIST THE KING (4419 N. Main St., Houston). $15 plate includes fried fish, rice, French fries, cole slaw and hush puppies. Drinks and desserts sold separately. ctkcc.org.
EPIPHANY OF THE LORD, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. (1530 Norwalk Dr., Katy). KofC #9759 hosts a fish fry with blackened salmon and Bam Bam shrimp and bake sale. Dine-in, take out or drive thru.
HOLY ROSARY, after 5:15 p.m. Mass (3617 Milam, Houston). $10 plate includes fried fish, French fries, coleslaw, hush puppies, and a drink. $15 plate includes additional French fries and cake. holyrosarycatholic.org.
OUR LADY OF LOURDES, 4 to 6:30 p.m. (10114 Hwy 6, Hitchcock). Held in Knights of Columbus Hall, $12 plates include fried or baked fish, French fries, hush puppies, coleslaw, a vegetable, tea/ water and homemade desserts made by the ladies in the Altar Society.
SACRED HEART, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Family Life Center - 602 S. Third St., Richmond). $12 plate includes fried or grilled fish, green beans, coleslaw, French fries and hush puppies. Desserts also available. Dine in, carry out or drive thru. 281-342-3609; kathy@sacredhrt.com.
ST. CECILIA, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. (11720 Joan of Arc Dr., Houston). KofC #13357 hosts fish fry. $14 plate includes fried fish, French fries, hush puppies, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and a dessert. Shrimp cocktail, glazed salmon, shrimp and po’boys also available for purchase. 713465-3414; saintcecilia.org.
ST. FRANCES CABRINI, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Francesca Hall (10727 Hartsook St., Houston). $10 plate includes fried fish, coleslaw, French fries or rice. Also available for purchase are sodas, Mexican Bread pudding capirotada, etc. Dine
in or carry. 713-946-5768; facebook.com/ SaintFracesCabriniHouston/.
ST. IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA, 5 to 7 p.m. (7810 Cypresswood Dr., Spring). KofC #10861 hosts a fish fry with $14 plates with two pieces of fish and three sides, $12 plates for one piece of fish and sides, or a $10 child’s plate of one piece of fish and two sides. $5 gumbo also available. silcc.org/lent-holy-week-schedule.
ST. LAURENCE, 5 to 8 p.m. (3100 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land). KofC baked or fried fish plates (Adults: $15, Kid’s spaghetti: $8) with hush puppies, French fries, tater tots, green beans and coleslaw. $58 to-go family four-pack meal pre-order only. stlaurence.org/fish-fry.
ST. PETER CLAVER, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (6005 N. Wayside Dr., Houston). $15 plate includes two pieces of fish or crawfish etouffee dinners with green beans, potato salad, bread, slice of cake and your choice of soda or water. $20 Combo. Free delivery with a minimum of five orders. 281-862-8989; 713-674-3338.
ST. PHILIP OF NERI, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (10960 Martin Luther King Blvd., Houston). $15 plates include four pieces fried fish, two sides, slice of bread; three pieces of stewed fish in tomato sauce over rice, two sides, slice of bread; or two pieces of stewed fish, one piece of fried fish, two sides, slice of bread. More will be available. Phone orders: 281-974-1722. Yard sale all items $2. 713-882-1134.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL, 5:30 p.m. (6800 Buffalo Speedway, Houston). $10 plate includes fish (fried or baked) and a choice of two sides (dirty rice, green beans or coleslaw). Drive thru is available on the Buffalo Speedway parking lot.
► FOR SUBMISSION DETAILS AND MORE LISTINGS, VISIT WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA.
MARCH 28
FISH FRY, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., The Westin Houston, Memorial City (945 Gessner Rd., Houston).
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Hosted by the St. Rose of Lima Men’s Club, $13 plates include fried catfish, hush puppies, French fries, coleslaw and iced tea. Both dine-in and carry-out will be available. parishinfo@ stroselima.org.
MARCH 29
GALA, 6 to 11 p.m., The Westin Houston, Memorial City (945 Gessner Rd., Houston). Event, “A Night in Tuscany,” includes dinner, silent and live auctions and more to benefit St. Pius X High School Foundation. Tickets and table prices vary. gala@stpiusx.org; stpiusx.org/gala.
VOCATIONS GATHERING FOR YOUNG MEN, 9 to 11 a.m., Mary Queen (606 Cedarwood Dr., Friendswood). High School young men are invited to meet priests and seminarians for a day of prayer, group discussion and brunch. archgh.swoogo.com/Andrew.
WORKSHOP, 9 to 11:45 a.m., Dominican Center for Spirituality (6501 Almeda Rd., Houston). Anti-racism workshop hosted by the Dominican Sisters of Houston. Free and open to the public. croeger@domhou.org; 713-440-3713.
HEALING HANDS MASS, 4 p.m., Warren Chapel in St. Dominic’s Village (2401 Holcombe Blvd., Houston). Starts with 4 p.m. Reconciliation, then 5 p.m. bilingual Mass dedicated to physicians and healthcare professionals honoring Dr. Jose Gregorio Hernandez, a Venezuelan physician canonization was announced recently by Pope Francis. Father Miles Useche, LBJ Hospital Chaplain, will celebrate the Mass.
MARCH 30
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION, noon to 6 p.m., St. John the Evangelist (800 W. Baker Rd., Baytown). Jubilee of Hope “50 Years of Faith & Fellowship: Celebrating the past and embracing the future” features barbecue plates, street food, sweet shop, Bingo, raffle tickets, silent auction, children’s games, music, car show and more. Free entry, cost varies per item. 281-837-8180, office@stjohnbaytown.org.
APRIL 2
ADORATION HOUR, 7 to 8 p.m., Sacred Heart (507 S 4th St., Richmond). Adoration Hour on the first Wednesday of the month to pray for vocations. Confession and Anointing of the Sick available.
APRIL 4-6
AA (ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS) MEN’S RETREAT, Friday at 6 p.m. to Sunday 12:30 p.m., Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston). Three-day 12-step study weekend for those working 12-step programs, with opportunities to grow spiritually and participate with others. Cost: $265 and $250 for 65 and older. registrar.holyname@passionist.org; holynameretreatcenter.com/12-step-retreats.
Having an Event?
Share your event with thousands of print and digital readers. Scan the QR code to fill out the form and send your event to Around the Archdiocese. Learn more at ARCHGH.ORG/ATA .
APRIL 5
HOUSTON CATHOLIC WOMEN’S CONFERENCE, 8:15 a.m., St. Michael the Archangel (1801 Sage Rd., Houston). Early Mass, speakers including Debbie Herbeck, Confession, lunch, vendors and fellowship. Register using QR code on website: houstoncwc.net. Registration: early $55 until April 4; $65 at door.
GALA, 6 p.m. to midnight, St. Catherine’s Montessori (9821 Timberside Dr., Houston). Event includes dinner, dancing, auctions and more in ‘20s fashion. Individual tickets: $200 Table Sponsorships and Business Underwriting opportunities range from $600 to $15,000. lray@stcathmont.org; 713-665-2195; stcathmont.org/gala.
APRIL 11-13
CATHOLIC MEN’S RETREAT, Friday at 6 p.m. to Sunday 12:30 p.m., Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston). This three-day retreat includes Mass, Reconciliation, conferences, and time for private prayer. Parish groups, father/sons (16+), and individuals are welcomed. $265. holynameretreatcenter.com/ catholic-weekend-retreats.
APRIL 13
BILINGUAL ITALIAN AND ENGLISH MASS, 10 a.m., Italian Cultural Center (1101 Milford St., Houston). Roman Catholic Bilingual Italian and English Mass. After Mass, we are serving a pasta and meatball salad, desert lunch for $15 per plate.
APRIL 16-20
For additional listings, visit WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA
In the hospital, Pope Francis celebrates anniversary of papal election with cake
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis spent the 12th anniversary of his election to the papacy undergoing physiotherapy at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, but he was well enough to celebrate it in little ways.
Along with the health care workers treating him, the pope — who had been hospitalized since Feb. 14 — had a small celebration to mark the anniversary of his election, complete with a cake and candles, the Vatican press office said March 13.
Hundreds of cards sent from children all around the world were also delivered to Pope Francis, wishing him a happy anniversary as well as a speedy recovery, the press office added.
The 88-year-old pope continued the therapies prescribed, including pharmacological treatment and physical therapy, it said.
A chest X-ray had confirmed continued improvements in his condition, the Vatican said the previous day, though doctors did not state that his double pneumonia had fully cleared.
The pope had been following the Roman Curia’s Lenten retreat by video, listening to the daily meditations led by Capuchin Father Roberto Pasolini, preacher of the papal household. While retreat participants gathered in the Vatican’s Paul VI Audience Hall could not see the pope, Father Pasolini opened his March 13 reflection with a direct message for him.
“Good morning, and a greeting with deep affection and gratitude to our Holy Father on this very special day: the 12th anniversary of his election,” he said.
Since 12 is a number associated with completeness or fullness in the Bible, he said,“We can truly thank God because the gift of Pope Francis to the Church and the world is complete. And certainly, in these 12 years, he has had the opportunity to express himself in fullness.”
Before their evening meditation, Archbishop Vittorio Francesco Viola, secretary of the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, read a message from the
CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE
Curia sent to Pope Francis to mark his anniversary.
From the Vatican and from many other places around the world, he said, “the prayer of the people of God rises unceasingly, and we join ourselves in spiritual communion.”
“Holy Father, in this Jubilee year, we grow in hope that the message of peace and fraternity, to which we are constantly called by your magisterium, may spread among nations and among all people of goodwill,” he said, “and that in everyone the desire to be disciples of the Lord, witnesses of the Gospel, and builders of the kingdom of God may grow.”
Archbishop Filippo Iannone, prefect of the Dicastery for Legislative Texts, led the recitation of the Rosary for Pope Francis, which has been taking place every night since shortly after his hospitalization.
“With the recitation of the Rosary, let us invoke Mary, health of the sick, for the health of the Holy Father Francis,” he said.
After taking place at 6 p.m. Rome time in the St. Paul VI Audience Hall to coincide with the Curia’s retreat, the nightly Rosary for Pope Francis returned to St. Peter’s Square on March 14.
Then, for the first time since Pope Francis was hospitalized in mid-February, the Vatican press office released a photograph of him March 16; the image showed him concelebrating Mass that morning in the chapel of his suite of rooms at the hospital.
The Mass was also the first the Vatican described as concelebrated by Pope Francis in the hospital. He had been receiving the Eucharist daily and, on the previous Sundays, was described as having “participated” in the Liturgy.
The Vatican press office did release a 27-second audio message from Pope Francis March 6 thanking people for their prayers. The pope had obvious difficulty breathing and speaking.
But for the fifth Sunday in a row, Pope Francis did not come to his window for the recitation of the Angelus prayer, but he may have seen some yellow or white balloons fly past his hospital room.
More than a hundred children
gathered March 16 in the square in front of the hospital to pray the Angelus; many were hoping the pope would come to his window to wave, while a few of the little ones were more concerned about keeping ahold of their balloons.
Although the pope did not come to the window, he thanked the children in the message the Vatican press office published at noon.
“I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today to Gemelli as a sign of closeness,” he wrote. “Thank you, dearest children! The pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.”
In the square under the pope’s window, Elena, 8, came with a group from Sacred Heart School in Rome’s Monte Mario neighborhood “because the pope is in the hospital. We wanted to show our affection to make him feel better.”
Giulio, 10, knows Pope Francis personally.“I met him when I was little and again when he baptized my little sister” three years ago. Giulio’s dad works at the Vatican and was one of the employees whose newborns were baptized by the pope in the Sistine Chapel in 2022. †
CNS PHOTO/PABLO ESPARZA
Drawings and messages are seen at the base of a statue of St. John Paul II outside of Rome’s Gemelli hospital March 19.
Welcome, Archbishop Vásquez!
On behalf of the Galveston-Houston Knights of Columbus and its 92 councils, with more than 20,000 Knights, we would like to extend a warm welcome to His Excellency, Joe S. Vásquez, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston.
We humbly ask for the blessing of His Excellency as we lead our families and communities in faith and service through the programs and initiatives of our chapter and its local councils.
Respectfully yours in Christ,
