Here stands a testament to faith. It is Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church Plaque. This plaque commemorates a century of devotion. It marks a church that began as a beacon of hope.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church has a rich history. It started in 1913. The Redemptorist religious order founded it. They wanted to serve the neglected eastern outskirts of San Antonio. This area was mainly populated by Mexicans and Mexican-Americans.
Imagine the early days. Parishioners had deep adoration for their priests. Priests acted out of pure love. These images are captured in old photographs.
The church grew over time. It included a school and a rectory. Sadly these were later demolished.
In the 1970s Our Lady of Perpetual Help faced a challenge. It was absorbed as a mission by St. Gerard’s Catholic Church. But the community voiced their concerns. Archbishop Patrick Flores restored its status as a parish.
Father Daniel Cisneros was the first priest appointed by the Archdiocese of San Antonio. He noted the close-knit nature of the parish. Many members are related. They are relatives, compadres, or comadres.
In 2013 Our Lady of Perpetual Help celebrated its 100-year anniversary. Dignitaries joined the parishioners. They celebrated its legacy as a beacon for Hispanics. It was in an east side community that is predominantly African-American.
Luanne Tapia’s grandparents were among the first parishioners. That was 92 years prior to the centennial. The centennial jubilee helped to further its legacy.
The anniversary mass was officiated by Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller and Father Cisneros. Congressman Lloyd Doggett, State Representative Ruth Jones McClendon, and City Council member Ivy Taylor attended. A fundraising gala followed.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church remains a grassroots parish. It continues to serve its community. It is a place where faith and heritage intertwine. The Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church plaque marks a place of enduring legacy. It stands as a reminder of the church’s deep roots. It is a testament to its vibrant future.