A Shepherd's Message - April 22, 2025

Nearly a month into his time as the chief shepherd of Galveston-Houston, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez shared some reflections of his recent weeks of ministry and what he looks forward to in the future.

In what ways have you been able to get reacquainted with Galveston-Houston following the Mass of Installation on March 25?
Archbishop Vásquez: I live at St. Mary’s Seminary, and I really enjoy being there, getting to know the faculty, getting to know the seminarians — my former seminarians from the Diocese of Austin and now my new seminarians from the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.

It’s been really good for me to spend time at the seminary; it’s a beautiful campus. Of course, I studied for four years at St. Mary’s from 1976 to 1980. The heart of the seminary is the magnificent chapel, and I enjoy praying there.

The priests had a Lenten Day of Prayer at the seminary, and I was able to reconnect with many priests I’ve known throughout the years. Several I knew when I was an auxiliary bishop (2002-2010), but it was also good to meet many new priests. Recently, I’ve also been reflecting on how Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and Archbishop Joseph Fiorenza have left such a mark on this Archdiocese and how they have been so instrumental in creating a vision for the Church of Galveston-Houston.

Both have their own gifts as shepherds and are excellent leaders who truly love this Church. They led this local Church to become a vibrant, growing, and diverse Archdiocese. I am truly grateful for their years of service and leadership. My hope is that I will continue to build on their vision and, with our priests, work to strengthen this Church and the Catholic faith.

Have you observed any notable changes in the local Church and community since returning?

Archbishop Vásquez: Since arriving, I’ve been able to preside over a few Confirmations. I’ve been informed of the multiple Liturgies needed due to the increasing number of candidates, which is extraordinary. The Catholic population has obviously grown in the 15 years that I was gone. So this is a blessing.

Another notable thing is the traffic; sometimes, it can be very difficult to travel through the city (laughs).

It was a joy for me to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica in Galveston. I had not been there since the 2014 restoration was completed. It is just beautiful. I was sitting there in the Cathedra, contemplating the beauty and thinking to myself that this is my home Church, the Mother Church of the Archdiocese. I was pleased to be there with the people who call Holy Family Parish their home.

What are some goals you have as Archbishop?

Archbishop Vásquez: One of my priorities is getting to know the presbyterate, the priests of the Archdiocese. They are my chief collaborators. I want to listen to them and hear about their hopes and desires. Also, I want to hear about their concerns. I depend upon the priests to help me shepherd this local Church. Together, we are to celebrate the Sacraments, preach the Good News, and serve our people. I’m grateful for them and the sacrifices they’ve made for the Archdiocese.

I also look forward to meeting the religious men and women who have played a vital role in the Church throughout its history. And I want to get to know the parishioners, the people of God. I want to be present to them, and one of the primary ways to do this is through Confirmations at parishes. This is an opportunity for me to meet the priests, young people and families.

Another priority is how we can promote vocations in our growing Church. We need more priests. Without priests, we don’t have the Eucharist. I’m grateful to Father Richard McNeillie for his hard work in creating a culture of vocations. I’m also very appreciative of the older priests who continue to serve beyond the required years.

Also, young people are very important to me because they are the ones who are going to lead our Church. We need them now. It disturbs me to hear about young people leaving the Church, leaving their faith altogether, no longer believing… that is a deep concern for me.
How do we help our young people encounter Christ and remain connected to the Church? How do we make the Church real and present in their lives? They need to know the Church is their home.