On Saturday afternoon, Greehey Arena at St. Mary’s University was filled to capacity as the Archdiocese of San Antonio commemorated a century of its metropolitan status. Over 4,000 parishioners, clergy and community members packed the arena, creating a vibrant scene of worship and fellowship.
Mass and Milestones
The celebratory Mass began with a choir that lifted the congregation in song, while priests, nuns and other clergy entered the arena with smiles and reflective hearts. Archbishop Gustavo García‑Siller addressed the crowd, noting that the event was made possible by “collaboration and teamwork” after a venue change from Wolff Stadium to St. Mary’s due to possible rain.
“It was awesome. Awesome,” the archbishop said, adding that the faithful responded well and that love “nothing will be in the way to impede us to show it.”
Historical Roots and Future Vision
During the Mass, Archbishop García‑Siller expressed gratitude to those who answered the call to serve amid persecution and highlighted the legacy of the Franciscans, whose missionary work in the 19th century led to the establishment of the diocese in 1874 and its elevation to metropolitan rank in 1926.
He also unveiled a new pastoral vision and mission statement for the archdiocese, presented in both English and Spanish. “Each community will come with its own practical ways to make it happen, but the unity will be precisely because of the pastoral mission,” he explained, noting that the plan will guide the archdiocese for the next five to ten years.
Community Reflections
Among the attendees was Marco Ruiz, who said the celebration reminded him of the enduring growth of the Catholic faith in San Antonio. “It made me feel joyful, because after 100 years the Catholic faith is still growing,” Ruiz said. He echoed the archbishop’s call to continue the legacy for future generations.
Outside the arena, displays showcased past and present ministries, as well as the names and faces of those who have led the archdiocese over the past century. The exhibits underscored the continuity of service and the deep roots of Catholic life in the region.
Looking Ahead
Archbishop García‑Siller’s proclamation emphasized core values such as unity in Christ, service to the poor, and evangelization. He urged parishes to work together, drawing on the strengths of both English‑ and Spanish‑speaking communities, to further the mission of the Church in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
The centennial celebration not only honored the past but also set a hopeful tone for the future, reinforcing the archdiocese’s commitment to faith, family and community in San Antonio and beyond.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
