Missions in Texas

The Catholic Church has a long and rich history in the state of Texas. Catholic roots in Texas trace back to the early European settlement of the area beginning in the 16th century. For centuries, Catholicism was the religion of the majority of what is now Texas. 

In the late 1600s, Spanish missionaries began making their way into Texas, establishing missions and converting Native Americans to Catholicism. Furthermore, the first mission was Mission Corpus Christi de la Ysleta del Sur, founded in East Texas in 1690. Additionally, many more missions were established throughout the region, including Mission Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción de Acuña. This mission is now a National Historic Landmark.

Franciscans in Texas

In addition to establishing missions, the Spanish also brought with them other elements of Catholicism, such as churches and religious orders. Significantly, the San Fernando Cathedral is the oldest continuously functioning church in Texas. The Cathedral was built in 1738. Several more churches were established in the following years. The first religious order to arrive in Texas were the Franciscans, who strove to protect and support the native people.

The Spanish colonization of Texas and the spread of Catholicism had a significant impact on the region’s Native American populations. Many Native Americans were converted to Catholicism and adopted some of the customs and traditions of the Spanish colonizers. The missions also served as centers of education and trade for the Native Americans, helping to shape the cultural landscape of Texas.

Catholic Gigs in Texas

During the early 19th century, the Catholic Church played a major role in the settlement of Texas. Catholic missionaries established missions, hospitals, and schools throughout the state. These missions and schools were an important part of the state’s early development, and they helped to lay the foundation for the Catholic community in Texas.

The Diocese of Galveston was established in 1847. This marked the first time that the Catholic Church had a formal presence in the state. Accordingly, this was a significant milestone for the Catholic community in Texas. It paved the way for the establishment of more churches and schools throughout the state.

Texas as We Know It

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Catholic Church in Texas continued to grow and expand. In addition to establishing more churches and schools, Catholicism also played a role in social and political issues of the time. For example, many Catholic leaders in the state spoke out against slavery and discrimination, and they worked to promote social justice and equality.

Despite the early success of Catholicism in Texas, the religion faced several challenges in the ensuing years. The arrival of Protestant settlers in the 19th century brought with it competition and conflict, and the Mexican War of Independence in the early 1800s led to a decline in the number of Spanish priests in the region.

However, Catholicism persisted and remains a prominent religion in Texas to this day. Texas is home to numerous Catholic churches and institutions. Catholicism influences the state’s culture and history.

For more information on vibrant Catholic organizations, see our organization directory.