Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church (Houston) facts for kids
Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church (which means Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Spanish) is a Roman Catholic church in Houston, Texas. It is located in the Second Ward part of the city. This church is special because it was the first Mexican-American church in Houston.
It was also the first church in Houston to offer religious services in the Spanish language. Our Lady of Guadalupe Church opened one of the first schools for Mexican-American children. It also helps people in need by providing food and shelter. As of 2012, about 3,500 families are part of this church. Many of its services are held in Spanish. The church is home to the Our Lady of Guadalupe School, which is the oldest Catholic elementary school in Houston.
Church History
Before 1910, there were no Catholic churches in Houston specifically for Mexican people. Some Mexican people faced unfair treatment when they tried to attend other churches.
In 1911, a group of priests called the Oblates of Mary Immaculate came to Houston. They were sent by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Galveston to serve the Mexican community. Our Lady of Guadalupe Church officially opened in 1912. The very first church service was held on August 18, 1912. It took place in a two-story building that was a gift from another Catholic group. The church was on the top floor, and the Catholic school was on the bottom floor.
Over time, more Mexican-Americans moved to Houston. Many would travel from different parts of the city to worship at Our Lady of Guadalupe. In 1919, Father Esteban de Anta became the first Spanish-speaking priest at the church.
In 1923, a new church building was opened. It was designed by a famous architect named Leo M.J. Dielmann. The old church building was then used only for the school and other community events. The Oblate priests served the church for many years until 1973. After them, the Priests of the Sacred Heart began to serve the church.
On August 18, 2012, the church celebrated 100 years of holding services.
Our Lady of Guadalupe School
The Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic School is the oldest Catholic elementary school in Houston. It first opened on September 8, 1912, just one month after the church's first service.
As of 2012, the school has over 500 students. These students come from many different areas around Greater Houston. Many classes at the school have waiting lists because so many families want their children to attend.
Community Events
Historically, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church held fun community events called bazaars. These events often featured popular bands and musicians. In the 1930s, two famous musicians from Houston, Ventura Alonzo and Lydia Mendoza, performed at these church events.
See also
In Spanish: Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (Houston) para niños
