The Diocese of Corpus Christi announced today that Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Mario Alberto Avilés, C.O. as the ninth Bishop of Corpus Christi, succeeding Bishop Wm. Michael Mulvey who has led the diocese since 2010.
Bishop-designate Avilés comes from the Diocese of Brownsville, where he has served as Auxiliary Bishop since 2018. The appointment was announced with what the diocese called "profound gratitude to God."
"We welcome Bishop-designate Avilés with open hearts and deep prayer," Mulvey said. "As we begin the holy season of Advent, a time of hope and joy, we are reminded that Christ continues to guide and shepherd His Church. This is a moment of grace for the Diocese of Corpus Christi."
Aviles was welcomed by Catholic leaders throughout the Coastal Bend with applause and excitement during his introduction on Monday.
"I promise you a bishop who wants to walk with you, to listen to you, to support you," Aviles said.
The new bishop-designate outlined his initial priorities for the diocese.
"The first and most important plan is to get to know you, to listen, to visit parishes, missions, schools and to hear your joys and your sorrows," Aviles said.
Aviles brings a strong background in education, having served as both a teacher and principal before entering church leadership.
"My passion is education and I've been involved for quite some time. So looking forward to working with our Catholic schools," Aviles said.
Born in Mexico City on September 16, 1969, Avilés joined the Congregation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in 1986. He completed his studies for the priesthood in Mexico City and Rome, earning bachelor's degrees in philosophy and sacred theology from the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum. He also holds a master's degree in education administration and supervision and is a certified teacher in Texas.
Avilés was ordained to the priesthood on July 21, 1998, at the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle – National Shrine in San Juan, Texas. Following ordination, he served as parochial vicar at St. Jude Thaddeus Church in Pharr, Texas, and worked as a teacher and principal at his Congregation's school.
In 2002, he was appointed pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Hidalgo, Texas. From 2000 to 2012, he served as a member of the Permanent Deputation of the Confederation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri, and in 2012, he was elected Procurator General.
Pope Francis appointed him Auxiliary Bishop for the Diocese of Brownsville on December 4, 2017. He was consecrated on February 22, 2018, at the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle – National Shrine in San Juan, Texas.
Aviles expressed enthusiasm about joining the Corpus Christi community and emphasized the significance of the city's name in relation to Catholic faith.
"A beautiful city, you know, and all that also the name gives you that opportunity of thinking that the Eucharist is the center of our lives," Aviles said.
As he prepares to take on his new role, Aviles asked the community for support during the transition.
"I need your prayers. I need your trust. I need your encouragement as I will trust in you and encourage you and pray for you," Aviles said.
Bishop Mario Alberto Aviles is scheduled to be officially installed on Wednesday, Jan. 28, with evening prayers planned for Tuesday, Jan. 27. Specific times for the ceremonies have not yet been announced.
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