UPDATE: In a remarkable moment for the St. Augustine Parish in Dallas, Father Paolo Capra received a blessing from Pope Leo XIV during his visit to Istanbul on November 3, 2023. The blessing was for a single brick that symbolizes the future of a new church, aimed at serving the community’s growing needs.
Father Capra stood amidst a crowd outside a historic cathedral, clutching a brick inscribed with “First stone,” the parish’s name, and 2026. His heartfelt request was simple: for the Pope to bless the brick, marking the beginning of a church project that aims to accommodate the congregation of over 500 individuals, many of whom are low-income immigrants from Mexico.
The current church on St. Augustine Road is too small to serve its thriving parish, prompting the ambitious plans for a new facility. The church has set an initial fundraising goal of $17 million to kickstart construction, which promises to transform the spiritual landscape of the Pleasant Grove community.
As excitement built in the crowd, Father Capra shared his vision for a “more beautiful” church, one that would stand as a beacon of hope for his working-class congregation. Renderings of the proposed church reveal a stunning design featuring a bright white sanctuary, a green roof, and a prominent tower topped with a cross, all framed by a glass entryway adorned with an anchor-and-cross emblem.
During the Pope’s first foreign trip as pontiff, Capra’s moment came when he was able to present the brick to the Holy Father. “We hope he will bless that when he goes past,” Capra expressed, filled with anticipation. To the joy of the gathered faithful, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the brick and waved a cross over it, fulfilling the priest’s wish amidst cheers of “¡Viva el Papa!”
This blessing not only signifies a pivotal moment for Father Capra and his parish but also underscores the importance of faith and community in the face of challenges. The upcoming project is poised to provide a larger space for worship, community gatherings, and support services for those in need.
As the parish moves forward with its ambitious plans, the community is rallying together, eager to see their dreams materialize. The next steps will involve extensive fundraising efforts, community engagement, and finalizing architectural plans to bring this vision to life.
Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring journey as the St. Augustine Parish works towards creating a new home for its vibrant community.
