“I have no grand plan, but a heart full of love”

It was an important day in the history of the Diocese of Corpus Christi: Pope Leo XIV appointed Bishop Mario A. Avilés as the ninth Bishop of Corpus Christi! He comes from the Diocese of Brownsville, where he was installed as an auxiliary bishop in 2018. During the press conference and his meeting with the priests and religious of the diocese, he expressed his gratitude to Bishop Daniel Flores for teaching him how to be a good shepherd and to Pope Leo XIV for his trust. “In this time, where many scatter and divide, we need to preserve and strengthen communion in the Church,” he said in his first address.
 
He clearly stated that he has no specific plans for the diocese: “I want to get to know you and hear about your joys and sorrows.” Bishop Avilés emphasized that he aims to proclaim the truth of Jesus Christ, which includes respecting the dignity of life, families, striving for holiness, and caring for the poor, making sure no one feels abandoned. “I have no grand program, but a heart full of love.”
 
Bishop Avilés was born in Mexico City, Mexico, on September 16, 1969, to Rafael and María Guadalupe Avilés, and joined the Congregation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in 1986.
 
His studies for the priesthood began in Mexico City and continued in Rome, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in philosophy and sacred theology from the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum. He also holds a master’s degree in education administration and supervision and is a certified teacher in the State of Texas.
 
Bishop Avilés was ordained to the priesthood on July 21, 1998, at the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle – National Shrine in San Juan, Texas. After his ordination, he was appointed as parochial vicar at St. Jude Thaddeus Church in Pharr, Texas. He also served as a teacher and principal at his Congregation's school.
 
In 2002, he was appointed pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Hidalgo, Texas. From 2000 to 2012, he served as a member of the Permanent Deputation of the Confederation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri, and in 2012, he was elected Procurator General.
 
His installation will take place on January 28, with the exact time still to be decided. Bishop Mulvey, who will serve as the Apostolic Administrator until the new Bishop is installed, addressed the congregation in his homily during the Mass, stating that “we need to move forward in faith. What hinders us is nostalgia – we want to stay where we are – and fear about what lies ahead. “The spiritual life is the life of the present moment: here in this moment, we have to move toward Jesus Christ.”
 
At the reception after Mass, Bishop Avilés personally greeted each priest and religious, and later met with the Chancery staff, looking forward to getting to know everyone.