By CatholicVote | Created at 2025-03-28 21:21:08 | Updated at 2025-04-04 04:31:59
6 days ago
CV NEWS FEED // Bishop Joe Vásquez was formally installed as the third archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, March 25 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, in Houston, Texas.
Archbishop Vásquez had previously served in the Diocese of Austin, Texas, since 2010. In January of this year, Pope Francis appointed him as the next archbishop of Galveston-Houston, following the resignation of Cardinal Nicholas DiNardo, who retired at age 75 according to the usual Church custom.
In a Jan. 20 press conference, Cardinal DiNardo said he was very happy about the choice of his successor, whom he described as “an experienced, prayerful, and humble shepherd to lead this local church.”
During his homily for the installation Mass on March 25, Archbishop Vásquez said that the role of a bishop reflects the love and gift of self inherent to the vocation of marriage.
“The relationship of a bishop and his local church does indeed resemble marriage,” he said. “Just as a husband loves his wife, a bishop is called to love his diocese with all his heart. As Christ loved and gave his life for his bride, the Church, a bishop must be willing to sacrifice himself for the Church.”
Archbishop Vásquez emphasized his devotion to his new role and his commitment to the archdiocese.
“As your Archbishop, please know that I will serve you, people of Galveston-Houston, with all my heart,” he said. “Together, we will move forward following our savior who leads, protects, and watches over this local church.”
The archbishop also encouraged the clergy to pray for him in his new assignment, noting his personal devotion to the Holy Family.
“Mary has accompanied me in my vocation, and I trust that she will be with me throughout these years as I continue to lead you,” Archbishop Vásquez said. “I also entrust myself to St. Joseph to help me to indeed Shepherd you. Pray for me, that despite my unworthiness, I may be faithful to the great trust that has been handed onto me. Pray that I may become like Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd and Great High Priest, the teacher and servant of all, and so become more and more a sign of Christ’s loving presence among you.”
He extolled the virtues of hope and service of others, and spoke about how Catholics can emulate the Blessed Mother, especially during this Jubilee Year.
“Mary, as the mother of all believers, she becomes the mother who accompanies us on our journey,” Archbishop Vásquez said. “Like Mary, being a pilgrim of hope means we are willing to step out of our own security, and putting ourselves at the service of others.”
