About Immaculate Heart of Mary · Encinal, Texas
The Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Encinal, Texas, is a Catholic parish within the Diocese of Laredo, established in 1898 under Bishop Pedro Verdaguer to serve the growing Catholic community. It reflects the deep Hispanic Catholic heritage of the region and continues to serve as a spiritual home for local families. The parish is part of a larger diocese with a rich history dating back to 1755, and it remains active in pastoral ministry, sacramental life, and community outreach. Its location at 1901 Corpus Christi Street in Laredo places it within the historic heart of the diocese’s pastoral center.
- Established
- 1898
- Patron
- Immaculate Heart of Mary
- Diocese
- Diocese of Laredo
Why belong here
Join a parish rooted in over 120 years of service to the Encinal community, offering sacraments, faith formation, and outreach to colonias. Active ministries include catechesis, music, and social services, fostering a welcoming, family-centered Catholic community.
History
The Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish was erected in 1898 by Bishop Pedro Verdaguer, who resided in Laredo due to its Hispanic and Catholic culture. It was established alongside St. Peter Parish (1897) to minister to English-speaking Catholics in Laredo. The parish is part of the Diocese of Laredo, which was formed in 2000 from portions of the Diocese of Corpus Christi and Archdiocese of San Antonio. The parish’s founding reflects the broader historical development of Catholicism in South Texas, including the migration of clergy and religious during periods of persecution in Mexico.
Location and Structure
The parish is located at 1901 Corpus Christi Street in Laredo, TX, within the historic Laredo Pastoral Center, which serves as the diocesan chancery and administrative hub. The building was acquired by Bishop René H. Gracida in 1985 and has since been the center of diocesan operations in the region.
Diocesan Context
The Diocese of Laredo, established on July 3, 2000, covers 10,905 sq. mi. and includes 32 parishes and 17 missions. It was formed from portions of the Diocese of Corpus Christi and Archdiocese of San Antonio, including the counties of Dimmit, Jim Hogg, La Salle, Maverick, Webb, Zapata, and Zavala. The diocese’s history traces back to 1755 with the founding of San Agustín Cathedral, which is the Mother Church of the diocese.