St. Joseph Cemetery in Beeville Honored with Historical Marker

 The Texas Historical Commission (THC) has recognized St. Joseph Cemetery in Beeville as a significant part of Texas history by awarding it an official Texas Historical Marker.  The designation honors St. Joseph Cemetery as an important and educational part of local, state and national history.

A dedication ceremony to commemorate the event was held April 25 at St. Joseph Cemetery with Bishop Wm. Michael Mulvey and Father Richard E.  Gonzales pastor of St. Joseph Parish presiding. Other guests included Msgr. Louis Kihneman, Vicar General of the Diocese of Corpus Christi, Father Ralph Jones, Stella Maris Chapel in Lamar and Father Balaswamy Pasala of St. James Parish in Beeville.

Father Gonzales welcomed everyone and gave the invocation. Dr. Barbara Welder, Chair, Bee County Historical Commission, saluted St. Joseph Parish for this proud accomplishment and gave reasons why a historical cemetery marker offers to the parish. She added that his designation is a tool that will increase public awareness of important cultural resources in Bee County.
 
Bishop Mulvey, the main speaker, said that the history of every parish is important and is highlighted during the Centennial year of the Corpus Christi diocese in which one of the themes is remembrance of the past and our forefathers. He added that awareness of our past helps deepen our faith.   

Bishop Mulvey and Father Gonzales unveiled the marker which stands at the entrance of the cemetery.  Bishop Mulvey then blessed the marker and the cemetery and asked all present to share and witness this historic event.

A reception sponsored by the St. Joseph Alter Society followed at the First National Bank in Beeville.