By CatholicVote | Created at 2025-01-23 22:26:13 | Updated at 2025-01-24 03:39:24
5 hours ago
CV NEWS FEED // Veritatis Splendor, an ambitious Catholic community development project, is entering a new phase of revitalization after years of slow progress.
The project is located near Tyler, Texas, with a mission to create a “vibrant, faith-centered community that nurtures both spiritual growth and sustainable living.”
Envisioned as a hub for intentional Catholic living, Veritatis Splendor aims to build a community where residents can integrate their spiritual and daily lives through shared spaces, prayerful environments, and sustainable practices. The community will include residential spaces tailored for families and seniors, creating a supportive atmosphere that encourages the growth of traditional Catholic families.
“Veritatis Splendor’s most precious asset is its Catholic soul,” Stephen Handley of Veritas Splendor said. “This is true down to its very financials; the land is sold at a premium due to the inherent value and rarity of a cohesive Catholic community.”
After facing financial challenges and selling off portions of the property to address mounting debts, the project’s future seemed uncertain. However, a renewed sense of purpose is now driving its revitalization, and the team behind Veritatis Splendor has adopted a business-oriented leadership structure to streamline operations and accelerate progress.
During a recent meeting with a prominent property developer, the team behind Veritatis Splendor unveiled a revised site plan that has sparked significant optimism. The developer, upon reviewing the plans, praised the project’s readiness, describing it as “two to three steps ahead” of similar initiatives.
The updated site plan includes a phased construction approach, starting with St. Raphael Square, the project’s centerpiece. Situated at the highest point of the property, the square will feature a chapel with bronze bells, a prayer garden, and spaces for community-focused activities, including farmers markets and homeschooling sessions.
Additional facilities will accommodate Bible studies, community events, and various initiatives and will include athletic centers, walking trails, parks, shops, and other amenities.
The community aims to nurture the Catholic core of their mission through potential partnerships with religious orders and a Catholic university hoping to expand to a new campus, which could enhance spiritual and educational opportunities on site.
Leadership is also currently working toward growing the community to more than 600 residents, enabling them to request local priest support for sacramental services.
Plans for the community also include a farmer’s market featuring local produce and a variety of agricultural initiatives, supported by 28 acres designated for community farming and education.
