BREAKING: A Dallas priest received a special blessing from Pope Leo XIV during his historic visit to Turkey, paving the way for a new church aimed at serving the growing community in Pleasant Grove. Father Paolo Capra stood outside an Istanbul cathedral on Friday, holding a brick labeled “First stone,” symbolizing the start of a much-needed church for his congregation.
Capra’s heartfelt request to the pontiff was simple yet profound: to bless this single brick that represents hope for a larger, more beautiful church for St. Augustine Parish. Currently, the parish is unable to accommodate its congregation of approximately 500 low-income members, many of whom are immigrants from Mexico. The existing church on St. Augustine Road is too small, prompting the urgent need for expansion.
The ambitious project aims to raise $17 million for its first phase, as detailed on the church’s website. Renderings show a stunning sanctuary featuring a green roof and a tower topped with a cross, designed to serve the community’s spiritual needs. Capra emphasizes that this new church will stand as a beacon of hope and inclusion for his parishioners.
In an exclusive interview with CNN’s Vatican correspondent Christopher Lamb, Capra expressed his eagerness for the pope’s blessing. “This stone would like to be the first stone of the new church that we want to build in the parish of St. Augustine in Dallas,” he stated. The symbolic moment was not only a personal milestone for Capra but also a significant step for the entire community.
Pope Leo XIV, during his first foreign trip as pope, greeted Capra and his group with warmth. As he approached, Capra extended the brick, and with a wave of his cross, the pope blessed it, much to the cheers of those present. The emotional atmosphere was palpable as attendees shouted, “¡Viva el Papa! ¡Viva el Papa!”
This blessing marks a crucial moment for the future of St. Augustine Church and its dedicated community. With the groundwork now laid, the parish hopes to mobilize support for the upcoming construction and fundraising efforts. The church’s aspirations reflect a broader commitment to serving the needs of an underserved community, ensuring that all are welcomed and provided for.
As the congregation looks forward to the new church’s completion, Capra’s experience serves as a reminder of the power of faith and community spirit. The next steps involve rallying support for the fundraising campaign and engaging local stakeholders to bring this vision to life.
Stay tuned for further updates as the project progresses and the community unites to create a lasting legacy for future generations.
