SAN ANTONIO (RNS) — Recently in San Antonio, a vibrant event hosted by community and faith-based organizations resonated with the joyful sounds of mariachi music, prompting Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller to join in a spirited dance.
Despite the crowd of parishioners eager for hugs, photos, and blessings, he remained fully present, radiating warmth and joy as he interacted with everyone around him.
The Archbishop, who hails from a large family of fifteen siblings in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, arrived in the United States in 1980 under the guidance of the Missionaries of the Holy Spirit.
After serving as auxiliary bishop in Chicago, he has been leading the Archdiocese of San Antonio since 2010.
Health and Wellness
After a lively celebration, the 68-year-old Archbishop paused to discuss a range of critical issues, including the implications of a potential second Donald Trump presidency, the spiritual needs within his archdiocese, the concept of synodality, and his personal health journey.
You spent two days in the hospital earlier this month.
How are you feeling now? Your health seems to be good? The Archbishop reassuringly shared that he is doing well, noting that his hospital visit was unexpected.
What started as worry over a stroke or serious health issue turned out to be merely a wake-up call; he remained conscious throughout the situation.
Following this experience, he has committed to enhancing his lifestyle, particularly focusing on healthier eating habits and allowing himself time to recover, especially given the demands of his role.
While many religious leaders are discussing the mental strains they face, you seem to have dealt with physical challenges.
He reflected on this distinction, acknowledging that his recent trials were rooted in physical stress rather than mental fatigue, admitting simply that his body had reached its limit.
Community Support
You have expressed concern about anxiety within your archdiocese regarding the possibility of a Trump administration returning to power.
What do pastors need to support their communities in such times? The Archbishop highlighted the significant demands that will be placed on pastors and lay leaders in the future.
With around 450 committed permanent deacons ready to serve, he stressed the importance of maintaining their physical and mental well-being.
To support this, he mentioned that all priests have been encouraged to attend regular health check-ups, and a full-time nurse has been appointed to oversee health initiatives.
Additionally, a network of counselors has been established, providing support for over a year now, to address the challenges these leaders face.
How is your archdiocese progressing with the idea of synodality, a dialogue-driven process championed by Pope Francis? García-Siller elaborated on the extensive outreach efforts underway, which include both virtual and in-person meetings that have engaged over 2,000 individuals across various communities.
This outreach encompasses marginalized groups, students, clergy, and parish organizations.
He emphasized the need for creating an office dedicated to these dialogues while coordinating with church bodies nationwide and internationally.
Plans for intensified local engagement in the coming year are aimed at understanding the unique needs of different communities, ultimately shaping a new pastoral plan by 2026.
Addressing Migrant Concerns
Today marks the celebration of the 50th anniversary of COPS/METRO, an initiative partly funded by the U.S. bishops’ Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD).
What is your stance on recent proposals to revamp this anti-poverty program? The Archbishop voiced his appreciation for the CCHD, expressing disappointment over some bishops’ hesitance to support its initiatives due to isolated misconduct instances.
He pointed out that similar challenges exist within parish communities.
Emphasizing the need to focus on the program’s broader positive impact and goals, he compared this commitment to marriage, underscoring that one should not dismantle beneficial programs due to minor problems.
Amidst various government levels enforcing anti-migrant policies, what actions can you take? He underscored the vital importance of prayer in leadership, arguing that transformation cannot happen without it.
He called for genuine self-reflection and a heartfelt response to the realities facing migrants, reinforcing the need to serve those seeking help—irrespective of their circumstances.
He shared a personal story of assisting a mother in need of medication for her disabled son, highlighting the crucial responsibility of community leaders to provide support and accountability in these challenging times.
Source: Religionnews
