Texas bishops express profound disappointment over decision to declare Texas Dream Act unconstitutional

The will of the Texas Legislature to enable the Texas Dream Act to continue has been overturned by a federal judge …The action by the Trump Administration and the Texas attorney general to ask a federal judge to overturn the law, and the subsequent ruling by the court, now propels our society further away from just and reasonable immigration reform that would foster human flourishing based in the tranquility of order and human dignity …

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Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops opposes SB 8

With recent changes, the TCCB opposes SB 8 out of concern that it does not adequately provide for uniform enforcement and training of local police officers who may now be authorized to enforce immigration laws in Texas.

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Review of HB3 on parental choice

HB3 meets all the requirements of the bishops’ criteria for supporting parental choice legislation because it includes 1) accountability through accreditation and the administration of a norm-referenced assessments, 2) strong religious liberty and private school autonomy protections, and 3) prioritization of the poor and vulnerable.

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2025 Teachers of the Year

Stephanie Webb Mark Clifford Teachers of the Year show lifelong dedication to their students and communities Stephanie Webb of St. Mary’s Catholic School in Tyler and  Mark Clifford, who teaches at Bishop Dunne Catholic School in Dallas, are the 2025 Texas Catholic Conference Bishops’ Elementary Teacher of the Year and High School Teacher of the…

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Texas bishops call for just and humane approach to migration

The bishops of Texas will continue to work with governmental officials and other people of good will to implement policies that recognize the dignity of every person, prioritize family unity, and address the root causes of forced migration, while respecting the right and responsibility of our country to secure its borders, regulate immigration in an orderly process, maintain the rule of law, and keep its communities safe and peaceful.

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Welcome to the 89th Legislature

Blessings for the 89th Legislature! We are praying for all legislators and staff and for a productive session. All are welcome to our events and services…

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Four Catholic schools in Texas named Blue Ribbon

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona announced the 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools. Forty-one private schools received this distinguished recognition., and four of those were our own Catholic schools! Read more about our Blue Ribbon Schools!

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How to promote resources for parental engagement

Parental Engagement in Public Schools is a resource guide for families with students in public schools. Please consider using the pulpit/bulletin announcement below, or the linked postcard-sized announcements (which can be printed or shared on social media) to make families aware of this resource. As the primary educators of their children, parents have the right…

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Comments on Texas Medical Board rule changes

Pregnancy complications can be life threatening for both mother and baby and a life-limiting diagnosis of an unborn child is devastating. Some media and advocacy groups are exploiting tragic stories to expand so-called abortion rights. We will continue to advocate for the highest levels of authentic medical care and support for pregnant women, their unborn…

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St. Joseph’s intercession sought in upcoming Supreme Court decision

On March 26, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in a case that has the potential to make a major impact in the widespread accessibility of chemical abortion (abortion pills). Chemical abortions are now the most common form of abortion in the United States. The case is in response to the Food and…

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Texas bishops express gratitude for response to tragedy of Panhandle wildfires

AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops opened their Spring meeting with a renewed expression of gratitude for all who are responding to wildfires in the state’s Panhandle, and prayers for those affected by the disaster.  For four weeks a series of deadly wildfires have caused suffering across the region, with loss of life…

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‘Great tragedy’ in Texas Panhandle calls for response

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops recognizes the great tragedy unfolding in the panhandle region of Texas and Oklahoma, and asks for prayers and support for all. “Our Catholic brothers and sisters are united with all who are suffering from the tragic wildfires,” said Bishop Patrick Zurek of the Amarillo Diocese, where the wildfires are…

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Texas bishops express support of “people of faith” serving on the border

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops provides the following statement: The Texas bishops join Bishop Mark Seitz of El Paso in expressing solidarity with ministry volunteers and people of faith who seek only to serve vulnerable migrants as our nation and state continue to pursue failed migration and border security policies. We recognize migrant ministry…

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2024 Teachers of the Year

Gracie Cantu Alanna Heyl Teachers of the Year show lifelong dedication to teaching Mrs. Gracie Cantu, who teaches at Sacred Heart School in Rockport, and Mrs. Alanna Heyl, theology teacher at St. Dominic Salvo High School in Austin, are the 2024 Texas Catholic Conference Bishops’ Elementary Teacher of the Year and High School Teacher of…

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Bishops celebrate court’s affirmation of EMTALA protection of unborn

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB)  celebrates the decision on Jan. 2, 2024, by the US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals to uphold the permanent injunction of a Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) guidance issued last summer. In its decision in State of Texas v. Becerra, the court held that the Emergency…

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Response to migration legislation

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops continue to uphold church teaching regarding migration. Most recently, in a letter to the Texas Attorney General in addressing the question of “whether Texas has the sovereign power to defend itself,” the bishops said “they reaffirm their commitment to continue the Church’s ministries of outreach and education, and to…

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Statement on Texas Supreme Court’s Cox ruling

Jennifer Carr Allmon, the executive director of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, has issued the following statement regarding the Texas Supreme Court’s ruling in the case of Kate Cox, who has challenged Texas’ ban on abortions. The Texas Supreme Court’s ruling in the case of Kate Cox, a pregnant woman who challenged the abortion…

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Job Opening: Staff Attorney

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops is seeking applications for the position of Staff Attorney. Inquiries should email resumes and a writing sample related to something on the legislative agenda of the TCCB to info@txcatholic.org. Writing sample examples include a portion of an amicus brief, legislative testimony, public comment on a rule, or analysis of bill.…

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Texas Catholic Voice Nov. 20, 2023

In this issue of the Texas Catholic Voice: Difficult week at the Capitol … Rest in peace, David Renteria … And more! A Message from Jennifer Allmon, Executive Director These past few days have been a challenging time at the Legislature.   Last Tuesday the House passed SB 4, sending it to the governor’s desk.…

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Texas Catholic Voice Nov. 13, 2023

In this issue of the Texas Catholic Voice: Fourth special session well underway … Rest in peace, Brent Brewer … And more! A Message from Jennifer Allmon, Executive Director Parental choice in education I am ecstatic to report that on Friday, for the first time in two decades, a parental choice bill was voted out…

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Oppose HB 4, uphold the rights and dignity of every person, foster the common good

The following testimony was delivered on Nov. 9 before the House State Affairs Committee by Justin Estep, senior director of Immigration and Refugee Services, Catholic Charities of Central Texas. As a church of immigrants, the Catholic Church has a long history of involvement in the immigration issue. Our experience in working with immigrants throughout the…

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Texas Catholic Voice Nov. 6, 2023

In this issue of the Texas Catholic Voice: Third special session closing … Pope Francis asks for prayers … Upcoming executions this month  … And more! A Message from Jennifer Allmon, Executive Director Immigration  The Senate Committee on Border Security took up a committee substitute to HB 4 on All Saints Day. The substitute removed…

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Texas Catholic Voice Oct 30, 2023

In this issue of the Texas Catholic Voice: HB 4 on immigration opposed… Update on parental choice … Stay of execution for William Speer  … And more! A Message from Jennifer Allmon, Executive Director Immigration reform lacking Early Thursday morning, the House passed HB 4, which creates a state offense of improper entry to Texas,…

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HB 4 not solution for immigration reform

The following testimony was delivered on Oct. 19 before the House State Affairs Committee by Justin Estep, senior director of Immigration and Refugee Services, Catholic Charities of Central Texas. The Catholic Church has a long history of involvement in the immigration issue. Our experience in working with immigrants throughout the years compels us to speak…

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Texas Catholic Voice Oct 23, 2023

In this issue of the Texas Catholic Voice: Support HB 1 on parental choice … Oppose HB 4 on immigration… David Speer to be executed Thursday … Synod on Synodality  … And more! A Message from Jennifer Allmon, Executive Director Last Thursday night, the long-awaited House parental choice bill was filed. HB 1 includes the…

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Support SB1: Meets most of bishops’ criteria for supporting parental choice

 The following was presented on Oct. 10, 2023.  Jennifer Allmon, Executive Director  My name is Jennifer Allmon, and I am the executive director of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, testifying in support of SB 1. Fundamentally, we believe parents have the right and responsibility to direct their children’s education and Education Savings Accounts should…

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Bishops address border tragedies

The TCCB has issued the following statement in response to recent reports of inhumane actions on the border: Recent media reports present a disturbing account of horrific tragedies occurring along the Rio Grande on the Texas/Mexico border. These reports stir our hearts again for the plight of our sisters and brothers who are seeking a…

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Proposed changes to Medicaid and CHIP will critically weaken Texas health care safety net

TCCB Executive Director Jennifer Allmon has written to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the federal Department of Health and Human Services, stating that a proposed rule released on May 3 “proposes changes to Medicaid’s financing, distribution, and adjudication that will critically weaken our health care safety net. These changes jeopardize the healthcare…

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Archbishop Sheehan, first bishop of Lubbock, dies June 3

Founding bishop of Lubbock Diocese, Archbishop emeritus Michael Sheehan of Santa Fe, remembered for life of service and faithRetired Archbishop Michael J. Sheehan of Santa Fe, the founding bishop of the Diocese of Lubbock, died June 3, 2023. He was buried June 9, 2023 from the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Santa…

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Bishop Olson testifies in support of SB8, parental choice

My name is Bishop Michael Olson and I serve as the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth that covers 28 counties in North Texas. I am here to testify on behalf of the Diocese of Fort Worth and the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops. We register initial support for the committee substitute for…

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Response Video Regarding Provision of so called “Gender Affirming Care”

The TCCB has been made aware of an undercover video showing a social worker employed by Dell Children’s Medical Group, a part of Ascension Seton, allegedly discussing the provision of so-called “gender affirming” care. Catholic hospitals do not discriminate against anyone and provide authentic healthcare to anyone who walks through their doors. We believe in…

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88th Legislature Immigration Bills

88th Legislature Immigration Bills For years, burdens of an unworkable system of immigration have fallen heavily on states and communities along the US-Mexico border. The human and moral cost of ongoing federal inaction to create an effective set of policies to ensure safe and orderly migration is tragically reflected both in an unprecedented number of persons…

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Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops supports parental choice in education bills

AUSTIN — Recognizing education is one of the best means to escape poverty and that parents are best suited to determine the right educational choice for their children, the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB) supports a set of bills increasing parental choice in education. The bills have been filed by Sen. Paul Bettencourt, Sen.…

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2023 Teachers of the Year

Julie Ortiz Geralyn Klimitchek Teachers of the Year from small towns exemplify the vocation of educators Mrs. Julie Ortiz, who currently teaches at St. John Berchmans Catholic School in San Antonio, and Mrs. Geralyn Klimitchek, who has taught her entire career at Sacred Heart Catholic High School in Hallettsville, are the 2023 Texas Catholic Conference…

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Proposed changes to ACA could mandate abortions and gender transition procedures

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) Hubert H. Humphrey Building Room 509F 200 Independence Avenue SW Washington, DC 20201 Attention: 1557 NPRM (RIN 0945-AA17) Submitted online via: https://www.regulations.gov.   Dear HHS, I am submitting comments on behalf of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB). The TCCB is…

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Texas bishops grateful for overturn of Roe v Wade

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops issued the following statement on the decision by the Supreme Court of the United States regarding Dobbs v Jackson: We celebrate with grateful hearts the historic decision by the Supreme Court of the United States to overturn Roe v. Wade. The state of Texas will again have the ability…

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Bishops mourn Uvalde victims of school shooting

AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops issued the following statement regarding the killings at the Robb Elementary School in Uvalde on May 24: The bishops of Texas mourn for the community of Uvalde and join Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller in asking God to have mercy on our children, families, and communities. We pray for…

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Public comment response to Rep. Matt Krause request

Jennifer Carr Allmon, executive director of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, has written Attorney General Ken Paxton in response to an inquiry filed by Rep. Matt Krause. On behalf of the bishops of Texas, Allmon responds to Rep. Krause’s question of “Whether the federal government has failed to uphold its obligations to protect Texas…

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Texas bishops thankful Melissa Lucio’s execution is stayed

AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops thank and commend the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals for intervening at this late hour to spare the life of Melissa Lucio, a mother of 14 and a grandmother, who was scheduled for execution on April 27. Their full statement follows: Since her imprisonment 14 years ago…

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Texas bishops find execution of 78-year-old ‘an act of vengeance’

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops issued the following statement regarding the execution of Carl Buntion on April 21: Carl Buntion, 78, was one of the oldest death row residents. Having spent almost half of his life in the harsh conditions of Texas’ prisons, he was an elderly, infirm man suffering from multiple chronic health…

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Texas bishops affirm US Supreme Court ruling in Ramirez v. Collier

AUSTIN – The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, representing the 21 active bishops in the state, were relieved to hear the news of the March 23 decision by the Supreme Court of the United States to grant John Ramirez’ request to have his pastor audibly pray and lay hands on him as the State of…

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Texas bishops offer solidarity to Ukraine

AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops issued the following statement regarding the war on Ukraine: “We reaffirm the words of Pope Francis, who has been unceasing in his appeal to stop the war on Ukraine. It is a ‘senseless massacre where every day there is a repetition of slaughter and atrocities. There is…

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Texas bishops pray for those affected by wildfires

AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops expressed gratitude for all who are responding to wildfires in the state, and prayers for those affected by the disaster. As of March 20, more than 62,000 acres in the state are ablaze, from Spring to just west of the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex. The largest fire,…

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Texas bishops call for mercy for mother facing execution

Melissa Lucio and her family deserve a review of her conviction AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops are asking the State of Texas to spare the life of Melissa Lucio, a mother of 14, and a grandmother, who is sentenced to die April 27. Melissa Lucio at court in 2008 in Brownsville, Texas.…

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2022 Teachers of the Year

Mrs. Olga Perez-Garcia Michael Alfers Teachers of the Year from Dallas, Laredo are shining examples of their profession Mr. Michael Alfers, who teaches social studies and coaches basketball at Dallas’ Bishop Dunne Catholic High School, and Mrs. Olga Perez-Garcia, who fills several roles at St. Augustine Elementary School in Laredo, are the 2022 Texas Catholic…

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Texas bishops urge President Biden to re-open healthcare funding for poor Texans

Approximately $10 billion in jeopardy due to disagreements regarding processing of payments to health care providers AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB) has written President Joe Biden, asking him to intervene in a process which is severely impacting the health of poorer communities in Texas. Non-governmental hospitals provide at least half of…

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“Heartbeat” law adds to Texas’ respect for mothers and families

AUSTIN — Texas’ new “heartbeat” law adds to a growing network of support for pregnant mothers and their families, the bishops of Texas said in a statement released Sept. 3. The full statement follows. This week in Texas a law protecting the unborn from abortion, once a heartbeat is detected, went into effect. For the…

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Statement on passage of Chemical Abortion Safety Protocol (SB 4)

AUSTIN – The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB) congratulates the Texas House and Senate for passage of SB 4, the Chemical Abortion Safety Protocol. The bill, which protects the health and safety of women by ensuring the FDA regulations for chemical abortion are codified in Texas statute, is now ready for Governor Greg Abbott’s…

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Year of St. Joseph graphics

Pope Francis declared a Year of St. Joseph for 2021. May, which is recognized as National Foster Care Month, is a wonderful time to promote the church’s St. Joseph Ministry, which builds a community around foster care families. Please consider using these graphics to promote this ministry. More information can be found at txcatholic.org/stjosephministry/.  

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Bishops speak on winter storm repercussions

The bishops of Texas issued the following statement regarding the situation in Texas predicated by winter storms: We are grateful for the outpouring of concern from around the world for all who have been affected by the severe weather conditions in Texas. The generosity of Texans who are reaching out to help their neighbors, even…

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Teachers of the Year recognized for work inside and outside classrooms

Victoria, Dallas dioceses’ teachers honored as Teachers of the Year Dr. Diana Torres Rivera, who teaches at Bishop Dunne Catholic School in Dallas, and Donna Kunz, a faculty member at St. Rose of Lima Catholic School in Schulenburg, have been tapped by the Texas Catholic Conference Bishops as the 2021 High School Teacher of the…

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Texas bishops ask 87th Legislature to approve pro-life bills

Human Life Protection Act and Texas Chemical Abortion Safety Protocol bill provide protection for unborn Texans and expectant mothers MEDIA RELEASE JANUARY 22, 2021 AUSTIN — On this tragic anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision, the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB) has endorsed two major pro-life bills which have bipartisan support in the…

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Final CFPB Payday and Auto Title Loan Rule Guts Essential Protections

In a time of economic hardship, Consumer Bureau goes to bat for predatory lenders AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Fair Lending Alliance, an alliance of more than 60 nonprofit organizations across Texas, and Texas Faith Leaders 4 Fair Lending, a coalition of hundreds of faith leaders led by the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops and the…

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TCCB Statement on George Floyd

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops offers our prayers for George Floyd, his family and friends, and all those affected by his killing and the events that followed in Minnesota. As the US Bishops stated in their recent pastoral letter, “Open Wide Our Hearts,” the injustice and harm racism causes are an attack on the…

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March 2020 Texas Catholic Voice

In this issue of the Texas Catholic Voice: Executive Director Jennifer Carr Allmon discusses TCCB work during the pandemic… Director of Education Lisette Allen shares message to Catholic schools… Texas Catholic Historical Society participates in annual meeting A Message from Jennifer Allmon, Executive Director I sincerely hope and pray our TCV readers and their loved…

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An Annunciation Message of Hope

Espanol On Wednesday, 25 March, the feast of the Annunciation, the bishops of Texas join Pope Francis, who has invited “the Heads of the Churches and the leaders of every Christian community, together with all Christians of the various confessions, to invoke the Almighty, the omnipotent God, to recite at the same time the prayer that Jesus,…

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Un mensaje de esperanza en la Anunciación

English En esta fiesta de la Anunciación del Señor, los obispos católicos de Texas ofrecemos palabras de fe viva y esperanza a nuestra gente en este tiempo extraordinario de ansiedad y enfermedad. Al enfrentar tantas incógnitas, podemos estar seguros de la fidelidad de Dios. La Anunciación del Señor es una fiesta de esperanza en la…

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El Paso, Austin teachers recognized as 2020 Teachers of the Year

A math teacher in an Austin-area Catholic high school and a fifth grade teacher in El Paso have been recognized as the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops 2020 HIgh School Teacher of the Year and Elementary Teacher of the Year, respectively. The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops recognizes Katie Artzt as the 2020 High School…

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SB 2089: Complex bill still needs agreement

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB) applauds Sen. Bryan Hughes’ wise acceptance of Sen. Eddie Lucio’s amendment to SB 2089. As Sen. Hughes said with this amendment, SB 2089 is now a better piece of legislation and will ensure appropriate care for Texans facing important end-of-life decisions. The improved engrossed SB 2089 now protects…

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Texas Bishops applaud Supreme Court’s stay of execution

The Catholic bishops of Texas applaud the decision of the US Supreme Court to stay the execution of Patrick Henry Murphy since he did not have access to a spiritual director of his faith. Our country was founded on the rights of each individual to exercise his faith, regardless of whether in prison or in…

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Prayers for Cardinal Daniel DiNardo

AUSTIN — The bishops of Texas offer their prayers and support to Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, who was admitted to the hospital last night after experiencing a mild stroke. Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, along with the other bishops of the state, ask for people to join with them in praying for his healing as well as asking…

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Positions open in El Paso Catholic schools

EL PASO — The Diocese of El Paso is seeking a superintendent for its Catholic schools system and a principal of the Cathedral high school. The superintendent serves more than 2, 700 students enrolled in 11 schools, three high schools and eight elementary schools. Cathedral is a Catholic high school for young men rooted in…

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Austin, Beaumont teachers recognized as Teachers of the Year

Inaugural year for award taps teachers with deep roots in Catholic education   AUSTIN – Vivian Conway of Austin and Jerrilynn Miller of Beaumont have been honored as the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops 2019 Elementary Teacher of the Year and High School Teacher of the Year, respectively. “Both Mrs. Conway and Mrs. Miller exemplify…

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Welcome to the 86th Legislature

There are several opportunities for Catholics working in and near the Texas state Capitol to participate in Catholic life in downtown Austin. Every week, more than 50 Masses are celebrated within one mile of the Capitol. Special faith events hosted at the Capitol include: Weekly Rosary On Wednesdays at 8 a.m., Sen. Lucio hosts the…

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Midterms 2018: Catholic Social Teaching and Voting

Election season is in full swing, and many voters are discerning the best candidates to represent them on the local, state, and federal level. For Catholics, voting is not only a civil right, but also a sacred duty and another way we fulfill our responsibilities as citizens of the United States. As the Catechism of…

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Selena Aleman appointed Archivist for the Catholic Archives of Texas

AUSTIN – Selena Aleman has been appointed archivist for the Catholic Archives of Texas, Executive Director Jennifer Allmon announced today. She will begin her full-time position on June 1. “Selena Aleman will bring the Catholic Archives of Texas into the era of digital archives, using her already extensive experience,” Allmon said. “We welcome her to…

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Statement concerning the serial bombings in Central Texas

Statement from Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, MSpS, of San Antonio and Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin (Spanish immediately follows English) “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and the families and friends of all those affected by the package explosions which have taken place this month in Austin and San Antonio, the latest of…

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Job opening: Austin St. Vincent de Paul Client Services Coordinator

The Society of St. Vincent DePaul is a faith-based, grassroots nonprofit organization that offers person-to-person service to individuals in need. This is a mission driven organization. We are currently searching for a vibrant, enthusiastic, optimistic Client Services Coordinator  who will serve as an active and collaborative member of the staff in our Austin Council office.…

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Bishops express gratitude for clemency for Thomas Whitaker

Governor’s decision to stop execution an example of restorative justice.  AUSTIN – The Catholic bishops of Texas expressed gratitude for the decision of Governor Greg Abbott to grant clemency to Thomas Whitaker. Their full statement follows: “We offer prayers of thanksgiving that Thomas Whitaker was granted clemency and mercy has been shown. We are grateful…

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FEMA allows houses of worship to receive hurricane relief funding

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has changed its Public Assistance Policy and Program Guide to add as eligible “activities of community centers or houses of worship open to the general public, without regard to their secular or religious nature,” effect for any major disaster declared on or after Aug. 23, 2017. Thanks for your prayers…

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Texas bishops express sorrow for victims of Sutherland Springs shooting

AUSTIN — The Catholic bishops of Texas express their deep sadness for the loss of life at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Sunday. Their full statement follows: Our hearts ache for those suffering from the terrible loss of life at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs on Nov. 5. We open our…

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Bishops reiterate opposition to legislation targeting “sanctuary cities”

Courts encouraged to overturn unconstitutional law, SB4 AUSTIN — As major cities and smaller communities throughout Texas join together in a lawsuit in federal court to oppose state legislation targeting “sanctuary cities,” the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops reiterates its opposition to Senate Bill 4, the law which threatens to drive a wedge between law…

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Advancing a Culture of Life

Recently, several single-issue groups in our country have made an effort to advance their political agenda by establishing coalitions with each other. One such example is Indivisible, the founder of which explains his goal as follows: “You might be an abortion rights advocate, an immigrant rights advocate, a racial justice advocate, but if you wait…

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Los obispos cuestionan la detención de una niña con parálisis cerebral

La aplicación de las leyes de inmigración debe ser compasiva, enfocarse en los delincuentes, no en pacientes que esperan cirugía AUSTIN – El caso de una niña de 10 años, indocumentada, que fue detenida por agentes federales en su camino a una cirugía de emergencia, resalta la necesidad de aclarar las responsabilidades respecto de la…

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Bishops question detention of child with cerebral palsy

Enforcement of immigration laws should be humane, target criminals, not patients seeking surgery AUSTIN – The case of an undocumented 10-year-old who was stopped by federal agents on her way to emergency surgery highlights the need for clarification of local and federal law enforcement agents’ responsibilities in securing the United States’ borders. Rosa Maria Hernandez,…

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Bishops criticize ACLU for pressuring facilitation of abortion; praise government officials for defense of unborn

Forcing government and immigration service providers to facilitate abortions will diminish services for immigrants AUSTIN – The Texas Conference of Catholic Bishops (TCCB) praises U.S. and Texas government officials for their defense of life in a recent case involving an unaccompanied pregnant minor in immigration custody in Brownsville, Texas, and criticizes the American Civil Liberties…

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Bishops plea for stay of execution for Robert Pruett

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops has written both Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Board of Pardon and Parole to stay the execution of Robert Pruett, scheduled for this evening. The scheduled execution comes only a day after Pope Francis explicitly stated the death penalty is “contrary to the Gospel.”

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CFPB rules will aid vulnerable Texas borrowers

Federal agency takes significant step to counter payday and auto title loans. AUSTIN – The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB) has worked for years to assist borrowers trapped in the cycle of debt that payday and auto-title loans create. The establishment of rules by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) marks an important step…

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Texas bishops support fair treatment of churches for FEMA aid

Discriminating against houses of worship for relief aid violates both the constitution and law AUSTIN — The Catholic bishops of Texas support a recent suit filed in federal district court by three churches that alleges unconstitutional discrimination against them by FEMA in the allocation of Hurricane Harvey relief aid. The three churches – Harvest Family…

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Former UN Legal Fellow joins staff for TCCB public policy work

Rachana Chhin joins TCCB as public policy outreach coordinator AUSTIN — Jennifer Carr Allmon, executive director of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, announced today the appointment of Rachana Chhin as the Public Policy Outreach Coordinator for the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB). Prior to joining the TCCB, Chhin served as the Murphy Legal…

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Cristo Rey Houston school seeking principal

Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory School of Houston (Cristo Rey Jesuit) is seeking a Principal (Director of Academics). Selected candidate will begin work on July 1, 2018. Priority will be given to resumes received before October 1, 2017. MORE >>>

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Bishops denounce ending DACA and urge lasting reform

Under DACA, more than 110,000 young people contribute to Texas society and well-being AUSTIN –The Texas Catholic bishops have issued the following statement in response to the decision to terminate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). We say, first, to DACA youth: regardless of your immigration status, you are a child of God. You…

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Pope Francis offers prayers

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis offered his prayers for the people of Texas and Louisiana struggling to cope with the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey and he praised all those engaged in rescuing and caring for the thousands of people forced out of their homes. In a message to Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of…

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Bishops encouraged by injunction on SB 4

AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB) is encouraged by a San Antonio federal court’s ruling to halt the implementation of SB 4. The law would have punished police officers if they did not fully cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and would have also allowed local police to inquire into the…

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Catholic Church taking national collection for storm assistance

WASHINGTON (CNS) — Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles, vice president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, asked bishops across the country to consider a special collection to assist victims of Hurricane Harvey along the Gulf Coast. He suggested in an Aug. 28 letter to bishops that the collection be taken during Masses…

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Call for solidarity with those impacted by Hurricane Harvey

U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) president, Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, has called for prayers and solidarity with those impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Cardinal DiNardo also called on all people of good will to closely monitor future calls for assistance for victims and survivors in the days ahead. MORE

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Archbishop Garcia-Siller, MSpS, statement on Hurricane Harvey

My thoughts and prayers are with the people of the dioceses of Corpus Christi and Victoria, as well as the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, as they cope with the damaging effects of Hurricane Harvey. The people of San Antonio have opened their arms to welcome evacuees of this historic hurricane, and Catholic Charities of the archdiocese…

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Brownsville bishop offers support for hurricane victims

Bishop Daniel Flores of Brownsville has issued the following statement: We continue to pray for everyone affected by the hurricane and those who are at risk as the storms continue. Our diocese will be taking a second collection at our local churches. Pastors may take up this collection as soon as this weekend. We will…

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Cardinal Daniel DiNardo statement on Hurricane Harvey

Hurricane Harvey made landfall on the Texas Gulf Coast this weekend. The powerful winds and considerable rainfall from this storm are impacting many lives and homes throughout the region.   The southern counties of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston have already suffered substantial property damage and losses. Numerous homes in these communities are currently without power.…

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Job opening: Public Policy Outreach Coordinator

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops is seeking applications for the position of Public Policy Outreach Coordinator. Inquiries should email resumes to info@txcatholic.org. The Public Policy Outreach Coordinator assists the Executive Director and Associate Director of Public Policy in the public policy analysis and outreach of the TCCB. This is a full-time position located in Austin…

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Establishing education opportunity through SB 2 / HB 253

The TCCB supports parental choice and we applaud Senator Taylor and Representative Simmons for honoring a parents’ right to choose the best education for their children. Their bills, SB 2 and HB 253, both recognize that parents are the primary educators of a child, and provide opportunities for special education children who have the greatest…

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Bishops express sympathy for trafficking victims found in San Antonio

The Catholic Bishops of Texas join Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, MSpS, in offering their sincerest condolences to the families of the migrants who were tragically killed as human smuggling or trafficking victims from heat exhaustion and suffocation in San Antonio overnight. In addition to prayers for the repose of those souls, the bishops also offer prayers for healing for…

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Texas bishops disappointed by Texas attorney general’s request to terminate DACA

DACA termination would punish young adults brought to the U.S. as children AUSTIN — The Catholic bishops of Texas expressed disappointment in Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s movement to terminate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, forcing 117,000 young people to be deported from the United States. “These individuals contribute to the economy,…

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TCCB priorities included in special session agenda for Texas Legislature

Gov. Abbott’s agenda addresses 20 items, including pro-life issues and parental choice AUSTIN — Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s issues to be addressed in the one-month special session include many of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops’ priorities, especially pro-life legislation and parental choice for special needs students. The Governor mandated the special session’s first priority…

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Texas bishops affirm opportunity for Catholics to engage in foster care system

Passage of House bill 3859, authored by Rep. James Frank and Sen. Charles Perry, provides conscience protection for organizations and individuals wishing to serve in Texas’ foster care system AUSTIN — The Texas Legislature has passed a bill providing people motivated by their religious beliefs the freedom to serve children in Texas’ foster care system.…

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Catholic Charities welcome passage of House bill 3859

Bill authored by Rep. James Frank provides conscience protection for organizations and individuals wishing to serve in Texas’ foster care system AUSTIN — Catholic organizations in Texas welcomed the progress of a bill providing people motivated by their religious beliefs the freedom to serve children in Texas’ foster care system. House bill 3859, authored by…

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Bishops call on Gov. Abbott to veto SB 4

“Anti-sanctuary cities” law will have negative impact on Texans AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops has issued the following statement, calling for Governor Greg Abbott to veto Senate Bill 4: The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops is disappointed with the 85th Texas Legislature’s passage of Senate Bill 4.  As passed, the bill does…

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El Paso job opening for high school principal

If you are an experienced educator who would like to work at an all boys high school, we would like to hear from you.  Cathedral High School is a Catholic Lasallian college preparatory conducted in the three-century old Lasallian tradition begun by Saint John Baptist De Lasalle to give a human and Christian education to…

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Bishop Daniel Garcia statement on pro-life legislation

The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops is pleased to support this package of pro-life bills that provides incremental progress to reduce abortion in Texas. In 2015, more than 55,000 unborn children were killed by abortion in our state. Each one of them was made in God’s image. Each one of them was a precious child…

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Pro-life legislation supported by leading pro-life coalition

Pro-life groups applaud bill authors for a thoughtful package of pro-life legislation Press conference on Facebook Live AUSTIN — Four major pro-life organizations representing more than 10 million Texans have announced support of key bills before the House chamber of the 85th Texas Legislature. “The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops is pleased to support this…

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Cardinal DiNardo: US bishops renew call for peace in Syria through dialogue

Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, as president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, joined Bishop Oscar Cantú, chair of the USCCB Committee on International Justice and Peace, in a joint statement calling for renewed peace efforts in Syria. “We once again make our own the earlier call of our Holy Father, Pope Francis: ‘I exhort the…

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US bishops denounce rollback of environmental protections

President Donald J. Trump issued an Executive Order on March 28, 2017 that rescinds and weakens numerous environmental protections, and effectively dismantles the Clean Power Plan (CPP). The chair of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development noted the bishops’ opposition to the order. MORE

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Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops encouraged by passage of SB 25

New bill prevents “wrongful birth” lawsuits and respects all human life AUSTIN — The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops is encouraged by passage of Senate Bill 25 from the Senate today. “The Texas Senate’s passage of SB 25 is a great step toward the State of Texas ensuring that parents can no longer file a…

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El Paso superintendent job opening

If you are an experienced educator who has qualities to be a Superintendent – or who is one now – the Diocese of El Paso offers an exceptional opportunity and challenge. The Diocese is located in the far west city of El Paso, Texas, which has been named the Safest City in the US. The Superintendent…

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Bishop Vásquez: New Executive Order still leaves many innocent lives at risk

Bishop Joe S. Vásquez, Bishop of Austin and Chair of the USCCB Committee on Migration, says that President Trump’s latest Executive Order still puts vulnerable populations around the world at risk. In a statement issued after today’s announcement of travel suspension, Bishop Vásquez says that while we seek to maintain our values and safety, we must also exercise…

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Border bishops call for dignity regardless of ‘migration condition’

WASHINGTON (CNS) — In a joint statement, Catholic bishops whose dioceses are along the U.S.-Mexico border spoke of the “pain, the fear, and the anguish” they’re seeing in immigrants and vowed to follow the example of the pope in building “bridges, rather than the walls of exclusion and exploitation.” MORE

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Bishops’ chair on migration responds to judicial decision blocking executive order

Bishop Joe Vásquez, as chair of the USCCB Committee on Migration, issued a statement welcoming the decision by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to uphold a lower court’s order blocking several key provisions of President Trump’s executive order regarding refugees. The bishop also said the Church remains in solidarity with those fleeing persecution. MORE

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Catholic Schools Week 2017

Last week Catholic schools in Texas and across the nation celebrated Catholic Schools Week (CSW) 2017. Representative Drew Springer offered a Texas House Resolution honoring all Catholic Schools in Texas. Cardinal DiNardo was recognized on the Texas House floor and presented with the resolution. All members of the Texas House of Representatives requested that their names…

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Faith-based groups stand against SB4 and other anti-immigrant legislation

AUSTIN — A coalition of faith-based organizations, including the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, the Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission, Austin Interfaith and the Texas Industrial Areas Foundation, are stepping up the pressure for the Texas Legislature to reject so-called “anti-sanctuary city” bills. In testimony today against Senate Bill 4, which Governor Greg Abbott has…

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Bishop Vasquez stands against executive order

AUSTIN, Texas – Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of the Diocese of Austin issued the following statement on Jan. 30, 2017, regarding President Trump’s Executive Order “Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States”: I strongly disagree with the executive order on refugee resettlement. Today, with more than 65 million people forcibly displaced from…

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Bishops strongly disagree with policy to halt admission of refugees

WASHINGTON—President Donald J. Trump issued today an Executive Order addressing the U.S. refugee admissions program and migration to the United States, generally. The executive order virtually shuts down the refugee admissions program for 120 days, reduces the number of refugees to be admitted to the United States this year from 110,000 to 50,000 individuals, and…

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Bishops oppose President Trump’s wall

Bishop Joe Vasquez, bishop of the Austin DIocese and chair of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration, said he was “disheartened” that President Donald Trump has prioritized building a wall on the US/Mexico border. “This action will put immigrant lives needlessly in harm’s way,” he said in a statement released today. “Construction of…

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USCCB Migration Chairman Expresses Disappointment over Abrupt End of “Wet Foot / Dry Foot” Policy for Cuban Migrants and Refugees

WASHINGTON—On January 12, 2017, the Obama Administration announced the end of the Wet Foot/Dry Foot policy towards Cuban arrivals, which allows Cubans who arrive onto American soil to stay in the U.S. and apply to become legal residents while returning those Cubans intercepted at sea back to Cuba. Bishop Joe Vasquez of Austin, Texas, chairman…

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A Message from the President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and Response to Pope Francis’ Video Message During National Migration Week, January 8-15

WASHINGTON—The follow statement has been issued by Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo, of Galveston-Houston, President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), in support of Pope Francis’ video message issued today during National Migration Week. National Migration Week is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of immigrants, refugees, migrants and survivors of human trafficking in…

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Texas Catholic bishops call for immigration enforcement that respects human dignity of migrants

Handout: The Church’s principles on immigration enforcement Any enforcement measures must be targeted, proportional, and humane AUSTIN — National Migration Week, which has been observed for more than a quarter of a century, carries renewed importance this year. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, and Archbishop José H. Gomez of the Archdiocese of…

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Bishops issue statement for National Migration Week

A joint statement from Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, Vice President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops  addresses National Migration Week, taking place January 8-14, 2017.

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Novena for life resource from USCCB

A modern adaptation of an ancient Catholic prayer allows people to prepare spiritually for the anniversary of the Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion in the United States, Roe v. Wade. The nine day prayer, titled “9 Days for Life,” is organized by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. The Texas Catholic Pro-Life Day falls…

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Pope Francis appoints new Bishop for the Diocese of Dallas

Pope Francis has named the Most Reverend Edward J. Burns to serve as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas. Bishop Burns, the new Chief Shepherd of the 1.3 million Catholics in the Dallas diocese, succeeds Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who left Dallas for Rome on October 1 after the Pope appointed him the Prefect…

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Rethinking The Death Penalty Events Coming To The Texas Capitol In October

The public and moral consequences of capital punishment will be the subject of a one-day conference entitledJourney To Mercy – Rethinking The Death Penalty In Texasbeing jointly hosted by the Texas Catholic Conference on Friday, October 23, in the Texas Capitol in Austin. The conference is an opportunity to re-examine the state’s system of capital…

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Fifth Undercover Planned Parenthood Video Exposes Houston Clinic

The controversy surrounding Planned Parenthood’s harvesting and distribution of organs and tissue from aborted fetuses has reached the Lone Star State. Newly released clandestine video by the Center for Medical Progress shows staff at a Houston clinic discussing the relationship between altering abortion procedures to obtain the most intact organs and their associated costs. The…

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Texas Catholics Encouraged To Post ‘Howdy’ Messages For Pope Francis

In honor of the Holy Father’s first Apostolic Visit to the United States on September 22-29, the Texas Catholic Conference has setup a new Facebook page“Texas Catholics Welcome Pope Francis”.  People are invited to give the Pontiff a big Texas “Howdy” by posting welcoming messages, prayers, pictures, and videos on the group page atwww.Facebook.com/HowdyPopeFrancis. Individuals,…

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Dioceses of Brownsville And Dallas Celebrate Milestone Anniversaries

Although their founding dates are separated by 75 years, the Diocese of Brownsville and Dallas are both celebrating landmark birthdays this month.  On July 15, 1890, Pope Leo XIII issued a Papal Bull to erect the Diocese of Dallas.  As a relative newcomer, Pope Paul VI established the Diocese of Brownsville on July 10, 1965.…

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Catholic Press Association Recognizes Catholic Southwest With Two Awards

Catholic Southwest: A Journal of History and Cultureextended its notable history of award winning publications by picking up two third-place awards at the Catholic Press Association’s recent conference in Buffalo, New York. The publication won third place in the Best Cover category and Amanda Bresie’s article on the founding of Xavier University in New Orleans…

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Education Leader Marsha Solana Retires From Texas Catholic Conference

After forty-nine years of dedicated service in Catholic education, Marsha Solana recently retired from the Texas Catholic Conference.  At the time of her departure, she served as Associate Director of the organization’s Department of Education.  Solana worked in a variety of roles throughout her prestigious career, including years as a teacher, principal and assistant superintendent…

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Bishops’ Chairmen Renew Push To End Death Penalty

WASHINGTON—The bishops chairing two committees of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) renewed the bishops’ opposition to the death penalty in a message, July 16. The message commemorated the 10th anniversary of the bishops’ Catholic Campaign to End the Use of the Death Penalty and their accompanying message,“A Culture of Life and the Penalty…

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Happy Birthday Diocese of Dallas!

By Most Reverend Kevin J. Farrell, Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas On July 15, 1890, one-hundred-and-twenty-five years ago, Pope Leo XIII erected the Diocese of Dallas. Because of the July heat and the absence of so many on vacations, birthday celebrations are postponed until the fall and winter. A number of festivities are planned…

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Catholic Missions Of San Antonio Named UNESCO World Heritage Site

Capping off a collaborative effort that began almost a decade ago, the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) inscribed the Catholic Missions of San Antonio as a World Heritage Site. The announcement was made Sunday, July 5, 2015, at the World Heritage Summit in Bonn, Germany. The San Antonio Missions, which remain working…

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Bishop Brendan Cahill Ordained As Third Shepherd Of Victoria Diocese

For the first time in 25 years, the Diocese of Victoria has a new bishop.  On Monday, June 29, 2015, Most Reverend Brendan John Cahill was ordained to the Episcopacy. He succeeds Bishop Emeritus David Fellhauer, who shepherded the diocese from April 7, 1990, until his retirement earlier this year. Bishop Cahill will lead fifty…

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San Antonio Missions Gain UNESCO World Heritage Status

By Sara Gruber,San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau The wait is finally over: The San Antonio Missions have officially been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The decision was announced on July 5th at the annual UNESCO World Heritage committee meeting in Bonn, Germany.  An elite list with just 22 existing U.S. landmarks included, the…

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Bishop Brendan Cahill Ordained In Victoria

By Jessica Priest,Victoria Advocate Hands clasped in prayer, priests and parishioners alike celebrated the coming of Victoria’s newest spiritual leader, Bishop Brendan Cahill. The voices of more than 1,200 people mixed with an ethereal choir Monday at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral during a three-hour service to install Cahill as a leader of Catholics in…

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Father Brendan Cahill Set To Become New Bishop of Victoria Diocese

The Diocese of Victoria is making final preparations for the Episcopal Ordination and Installation of His Excellency The Most Rev. Brendan J. Cahill, S.T.D. as its new bishop on Monday, June 29, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. in Our Lady of Victory Cathedral.  He will succeed Bishop David E. Fellhauer as the third shepherd of the…

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Catholic Mobilizing Network Rolls Out New Tools For Year Of Mercy

The Catholic Mobilizing Network has developed new educational resources to correspond with the Jubilee Year of Mercy, which will be celebrated by the Catholic Church from December 8, 2015 to November 20, 2016. These tools include updated materials on the death penalty, restorative justice, solitary confinement, and more. The Catholic Mobilizing Network works in close…

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USCCB Chairmen Give Strong Support for the ‘First Amendment Defense Act’

WASHINGTON—Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone of San Francisco, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore, chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty, gave their strong support for the First Amendment Defense Act (FADA), which is a federal…

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Bishops’ Efforts For Advance Directives Reform Signed Into Texas Law

With the stroke of his pen Governor Greg Abbott capped off several years of public advocacy by Texas Catholics with his signing House Bill 3074 into law. The measure requires the provision of artificial nutrition and hydration for patients who wish it, unless the provision of food and water causes harm to the patient. The…

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Federal Appeals Court Upholds Pro-Life House Bill 2

A three-judge panel at the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled unanimously on June 9, 2015, to uphold the constitutionality of Texas’ pro-life law, House Bill 2, as applied almost entirely across the Lone Star State. InWhole Woman’s Health v. Lakey, three abortion providers and three abortion doctors challenged the 2013 bill passed overwhelmingly by…

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Texas Dioceses Ordain Thirty-two Men To The Priesthood

This spring, the fifteen dioceses of Texas ordained 32 Transitional Deacons to the Sacred Order of the Priesthood.  Through the imposition of hands and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, these men completed several years of education and spiritual training to make the final step on their call to the priestly vocation. The Diocese of…

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