Diocese of Austin
Bishop Joe Vásquez made a pastoral visitation to the Igbo Catholic Community of the Diocese of Austin by celebrating the Mass of the First Sunday of Advent on November 28 at 1:30 p.m. at Holy Cross Parish, Austin. The people were incredibly moved by the Bishop’s warmth and pastoral presence, with one woman commenting favorably about his sincerity and authenticity as he spoke to them in their native dialect. After the liturgy, Bishop was honored by the community at the reception with dancing and table fellowship.
Father Basil Aguzie msp of Holy Cross Parish serves somewhat as the convener of the Igbo community. The local Igbo Catholic Community’s mission is to serve the spiritual needs of Igbo Catholics in the Diocese of Austin through worship, promotion of Igbo socio-cultural values, youth evangelization and development, and the well-being of the Igbo in general. Currently, there are 10 Igbo priests serving in the diocese, as well as one deacon, four religious sisters and one seminarian. Igbo Catholic groups are found in many diocesan parishes. Monthly Igbo Masses are held the last Sunday of each month at Holy Cross Parish.
