Nation's first Mexican-American bishop marks 50 years of priesthood

Published: 2006-06-29

SAN ANTONIO (CNS) -- While always loyal to his Hispanic roots, the first Mexican-American bishop in the United States, now-retired Archbishop Patrick F. Flores, was a welcome part of celebrations by "every race, nationality and culture that make up the church in San Antonio." Msgr. Lawrence Stuebben, vicar general of the San Antonio Archdiocese, made the comment at ceremonies in May marking the archbishop's 50th anniversary as a priest. Referring to him as "a shepherd to the people he loved," Msgr. Stuebben said Archbishop Flores was a true pastor of his flock, helping the poor, the needy, the elderly, prisoners, abused women and children, the forgotten, the homeless, the hungry, the sorrowing and the sick. "People gave him money and things and he gave it away as quickly as he received it," the priest said. "His own personal agenda never got in the way because he didn't have one."

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