SAN ANTONIO (RNS) — As a mariachi began to play at an event for San Antonio community and faith-based organizations early last month, San Antonio Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller’s feet started moving, and even as he was swarmed by Catholics asking for hugs, pictures and blessings, his feet kept moving, as he danced with parishioner after parishioner.
García-Siller, the eldest of 15 children, grew up in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, and was sent to the U.S. in 1980 by his order, the Missionaries of the Holy Spirit. After serving as an auxiliary bishop in the Archdiocese of Chicago, he has led the Archdiocese of San Antonio since 2010.
Sitting down for an interview after dancing, García-Siller, 68, spoke about facing the incoming Donald Trump administration as the only immigrant leading a U.S. border diocese, synodality, the U.S. bishops’ anti-poverty program and his health.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
You were hospitalized for two days in October. How are you doing? You seem fit and healthy today.
Yes, I am. It was a surprise because they thought I had a stroke or was in a coma or something, but I never lost consciousness. I have been learning what to do, what not to do. (It’s about) what I’m eating, and also knowing that I have to have time to recoup …