September 25
The World Meeting of Families wrapped up its sessions today in Philadelphia. Now the city is preparing to receive the Holy Father when he visits for the weekend. More than 50 people from the San Angelo Diocese have made the pilgrimage to this historic event. It is truly an experience of the universal nature of the Catholic Church. Along with delegates from every part of the world, we are celebrating the importance of marriage and family life. For many in our San Angelo group, this is a life-changing experience. Making a pilgrimage of faith opens up the heart to the action of the Holy Spirit in ways that are less likely in the busy routines of our lives. Please pray for God's continued action in this encounter.
Most Rev. Michael J. Sis
Bishop of San Angelo
September 22
Thanks to God for safe travel from San Angelo to Washington for the Papal Visit. All along the way, there has been a joyful excitement in the air as our country prepares for the first pastoral visit of Pope Francis to the United States. Fellow travelers expressed support, enthusiasm, and curiosity. One man on the plane told me he has been away from the Church for several years, and now he would like to come back. Let's all pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our conversations on this historic occasion, no matter where we are.
Most Reverend Michael J. Sis
Bishop of San Angelo
September 21
Today the Holy Father Pope Francis completes his last full day in Cuba before flying to Washington on Tuesday. As he visits the United States for the first time, there will be much publicity and commentary in the media. There will also be many in our country who will express misunderstandings of his role and misconceptions about our Catholic faith.
This Papal Visit presents for all of us a great opportunity to witness our faith to our neighbors. Some will have questions about Catholicism. Some will say they were raised Catholic but have not been active for a while. The way we respond in these informal conversations can make a lasting positive impact.
This is a chance to invite others to come and see. Let your friends and co-workers know that they are welcome in our Catholic churches. Share your own story of experience of faith. Let them see that Jesus Christ is active in your life. Let your light shine.
Most Revered Michael J. Sis
Bishop of San Angelo
September 20
As the Holy Father makes a pastoral visit to Cuba, we call to mind the many years of oppression and religious persecution suffered by the Cuban people at the hands of the Castro regime. In solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Cuba, we pray that some day they may have a society that is more open to religious freedom and more respectful of their human rights. We also celebrate the ingenuity and creativity of Cuban people everywhere, whose pursuit of education, excellence, and family life have made them exemplary members of the human family.
Most Reverend Michael J. Sis
Bishop of San Angelo