MIGUEL TIMOSHENKOV.
LAREDO, TX – With a special Mass for his pastoral role on the 25th Anniversary of the Diocese of Laredo, Bishop James A. Tamayo received the keys to the city from Mayor Victor Trevino and recognition from the United States Congress by Laredo Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar.
“There will be a special Mass at Sames Auto Arena. It will open at 8:00 a.m. and Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m.,” Bishop Tamayo said from the Laredo government podium. “I am motivated and grateful for the great kindness of our congregation, but we are concerned about the migrants.”
Laredo Catholic groups and citizens joined the government meeting room to express their solidarity with the first Bishop Tamayo.
Mayor Treviño highlighted the pastoral leadership he has provided to the community for a quarter of a century.
In 25 years, he has guided his flock in a turbulent and challenging world, but it has allowed them to move forward.
Cuellar said Bishop Tamayo is a charismatic pastor, interested in the core problems of a constantly shifting border.
Bishop Tamayo looked back on his arrival in Laredo on September 9, 25 years ago, having been recently appointed by the Supreme Court. Pontiff John Paul II.
“I have been blessed by the Lord and by the community for the good works of the Church,” said Bishop Tamayo. “I am grateful for giving us the keys to the city. It is opening doors to continue helping to improve our lives. The Church not only thinks about the body, but also about the soul, for the well-being, grace, peace, hope, and charity of all.”
He said he is the pastor who can oversee and see the good, but to continue facing great challenges, it is imperative that we all work together for the well-being of our community.
The Church’s concern in these turbulent times is that we draw closer to Christ, because Christ is hope.
“Christ is the love that sustains us. “So in our churches, people can come to pray, spend time with him, and open their hearts,” Bishop Tamayo advised. “It will always be good for the Church to be present with government officials.”
When speaking about migrants, the bishop noted that last week the bishops of Texas and the Mexican border, meeting for three days, addressed regional issues of young married couples, families, and children.
“We address issues of social justice with migrants. We engage with people who are in Mexico, trying to cross legally to improve their lives in the United States,” Bishop Tamayo commented.
The governments of Mexico and the United States were asked to assist migrants so they can legally live in their communities, work, and contribute.