Dear Parishioners,
Greetings in the Lord! It is with great pleasure that I pass along to you the news that one of the men recently ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, Father Matthew Suniga, has been assigned to Saint Theresa Catholic Church in Sugar Land!
Fr. Suniga will work alongside me, Fr. Jose, Fr. Greg, and our clergy and staff, in ministering to the needs of this parish. Words can hardly describe my elation at the news of such a blessing. I am likewise bursting with joy for the many wonderful gifts he will soon be able to share with all of you.
Hailing from Del Valle, Texas and a proud graduate of the University of Saint Thomas (B.A., Business and Philosophy; M.L.A., Spanish) and Saint Mary’s Seminary here in Houston, Dcn. Suniga describes himself as a “Child of God, Christian, faithful son and brother, uncle, steadfast friend, spiritual father, incessant reader, writer, historian, theologian, lover of music and languages, photographer, film enthusiast, proud Texan.” Getting to know him over the past several years as he’s studied for the priesthood, I also know him to be a faithful servant of the Sacred Liturgy, a gifted preacher (and impersonator), a cheerful and magnetic leader, and a true gift to the people of this Archdiocese.
He spent his pastoral (internship) year at Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Spring and has, up to now, been exercising his diaconate ministry at St. Faustina Catholic Church in Fulshear. I can attest that his supervisors, pastors, and parishioners are all quick to extol his virtues and express their ardent wish that he could return to serve them as their priest. That we will have this great privilege – beginning July 1 and for as long as the bishop deems appropriate – is a grace for which should be truly grateful.
This will naturally bring about some changes to our life and ministry here; I ask for your patience as these unfold in the days ahead. For now, please note:
- Beginning the first week of July, an additional Mass will be celebrated each week at 5:30 pm (in the chapel) on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
- There will be an informal welcome reception for Fr. Suniga after all Masses Sunday, July 1.
There is much joy and excitement to go around. May it help us be mindful of, and lead us closer to, the Giver of Every Good and Perfect Gift. With gratitude for your prayers and support, I am
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Rev. Eurel Manzano
Pastor, St. Theresa Catholic Church
The 2018 appeal for the DIOCESAN SERVICES FUND has begun; please donate now! There are over 60 ministries in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston that depend upon the support of generous parishioners like you. Learn more about the important ministries supported by the DSF.
