The 20th anniversary of my episcopal ordination (E-Pistle Message)

This week, I celebrated the 20 ^th anniversary of my episcopal ordination. It was on Jan. 23, 2002, that I was ordained as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and on March 8, 2010, I was installed as the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Austin. 

As I celebrated Mass at St. Mary Cathedral last Sunday, which was designated by the Holy Father as  Word of God Sunday, I was profoundly touched by the significance of this date. I am ever grateful for listening to His Word – for recognizing and accepting His invitation to serve and humbled by His call for me to teach, lead, pray for and sanctify the Lord’s flock first as priest, pastor and now as bishop.

Pope Benedict wrote, “In all humility we will do what we can, and in all humility we will entrust  the rest to the Lord” (#35  Deus Caritas Est.). I continue to be blessed by His extraordinary grace and by your prayers that lead us into communion with one another through Jesus Christ. I offer my sincere gratitude for all your kind words and especially your prayers.

My heart will forever thank our Good Shepherd for this calling and may He continue to strengthen me daily and guide me in bringing His flock ever closer to His most Sacred Heart.