Most Rev. Joseph A. Fiorenza, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston decreed the establishment of the Mission Council of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, effective February 19, 2004.

The Mission Council will be representative of the ordained, religious and lay Catholics, convened at the invitation of the archdiocesan Bishop. The Council, led by the Holy Spirit is charged with the responsibility of promoting the missionary activity of the Church.

In promoting the missionary activity of the Church, the Mission Council will work with the Archdiocesan Mission Office to:

• educate the people of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston on the missionary nature of the Church,

• develop and nurture a Christ-centered missionary spirit,

• affirm present missionary activity in the Archdiocese,

• foster and encourage additional missionary activity and greater participation in this "holiest and greatest work of the Church." (Ad Gentes).

Archbishop Fiorenza appointed Rev. John R. Whitley, C.S.B., the first Chairperson of the first Archdiocesan Mission Council.

Bishop Vincent M. Rizzotto is the Episcopal Moderator for the Council.