Birthplace:
Archbishop Gomez was born in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.
Brief History:
Pope John Paul II (who the Archbishop has referred to as his hero) selected Most Rev. José H. Gomez, S.T.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Denver, to shepherd of the Archdiocese of San Antonio. Soon after his designation, Archbishop Gomez visited the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe to "put in the hands of the Blessed Mother my ministry to the people of San Antonio."
While listening to Pope Benedict XVI's homily at the Mass of the imposition of the pallium in June, 2005, the Archbishop said he was struck most by the Pope's message, that "in order for me to reach the full meaning of my office and ministry, I need to find new ways to teach the Catholic faith in today's world."
Among Archbishop José Gomez's many honors is Time magazine's designation of the Archbishop as one of "The 25 Most Influential Hispanics in America" in the Aug, 22, 2005 issue. In 2003, Archbishop Gomez earned the annual National Association of Hispanic Priests Award, "El Buen Pastor", which honors a priest outstanding in the field of Hispanic Ministry.
Archbishop Gomez is a longtime member of the National Association of Hispanic Priests (ANSH) where he has also served as Executive Director. He also serves on the USCCB committees on Doctrine, Priestly Formation, Hispanic Affairs and Priestly Life and Ministry.
The Archbishop has also commented: "I think that we as Catholics have a treasure in our faith. The richness of the Catholic faith is just a joyful way of seeing life. I would like all Catholics in San Antonio to be aware of that treasure and try to share that treasure with everybody."
Education:
Archbishop Gomez received his doctorate in Sacred Theology from the University of Navarre, Rome Campus, where he also earned his bachelor's degree in Theology. He also holds degrees in Accounting and Philosophy.
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