The 75th anniversary celebration for the Diocese of Austin closed with a Mass of Thanksgiving on Nov. 18 at St. William Parish in Round Rock.

Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, archbishop of Galveston-Houston, who served as the principal celebrant, together with Bishop Vásquez, 13 bishops, more than 150 priests, deacons and seminarians as well as representatives from each of the diocesan apostolates and ministries and the faithful from throughout the diocese were present for the Mass. 

“Austin you have every reason to celebrate,” Cardinal DiNardo said during his homily. “Serve and love the Lord Jesus, love him in words, but most of all receive him in the Eucharist and go out and be obedient to his commands. God bless you and happy anniversary.

“This anniversary year was an opportunity for us to remember the past and celebrate the many blessings the Lord has showered upon our diocese and how he has used this local church as an instrument to serve others,” Bishop Vásquez said during his closing remarks.

As Mass ended, the recessional turned into further celebration in the courtyard where all were greeted by Mariachis playing festive tunes.