The Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of El Paso will bestow its 10th Annual Dei Gratia Award upon the Christian Brothers who have served as leaders and educators of Cathedral High School. Join us at the 19th annual Foundation of Faith Award Dinner on September 4, 2025, at the Starlight Event Center, where we will honor the Christian Brothers. This prestigious recognition comes as the school celebrates its 100th anniversary.
Cathedral High School was a crucial bridge to American society for many Mexican immigrants arriving in the El Paso area during the early 20th century. Established in 1925 by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, the institution provided a Lasallian education that opened doors to college and professional success for generations of young men from both sides of the border – many of whom were the first in their families to attend school. This educational foundation played a vital role in the upward economic mobility of countless families.
During the challenging early years of Cathedral, the Christian Brothers taught and tirelessly built athletic programs with limited resources. The economic hardship of the Great Depression dealt a significant blow when the First National Bank of El Paso collapsed, leaving the Brothers with no financial reserves. Despite newspaper reports and city leaders suggesting the school’s closure was imminent, the determined spirit of the community, often referred to as the “Irish,” persevered. This fighting spirit became a symbol of resilience for the Brothers, their students, and families facing their own struggles for basic necessities, the pursuit of education, and the defense of core moral principles within the Cathedral community.
The Christian Brothers’ impact extended beyond academics. During the 1940s, they instilled a profound sense of patriotism and sacrifice in their students. By 1945, approximately two-thirds of Cathedral alumni answered the call to service, joining the armed forces during World War II.
Over the subsequent five decades, the Christian Brothers continued to embody their vows “to teach minds and to touch hearts” and act as “watchful guides, lighting the path for youth,” as their founder, St. John Baptist De La Salle, envisioned. Their unwavering commitment to the young men of the border region has left an indelible mark on generations of alumni.
Among the influential members of the Lasallian family whose faith and determination were crucial to Cathedral’s survival and success through turbulent times in El Paso and the nation are Br. Stephen Teissandier, F.S.C.; Br. Amedy Long, F.S.C.; Br. Ignatius McGowan, F.S.C.; Br. Ambrose LeBlanc, F.S.C.; Br. Alphonsus Abeyta, F.S.C.; Br. Henry Herrera, F.S.C.; Br. Raphael Bodin, F.S.C.; Br. Adrian Pfarr, F.S.C; and Br. Nick Gonzalez, F.S.C.; Cathedral alumnus, who now serves as the Lasallian Christian Brothers Foundation Board Chair.
The Christian Brothers also acknowledge the invaluable contributions of their lay partners, officially titled Affiliated Christian Brothers (A.F.S.C.), including Mr. Robert J. Carson, Mrs. Luz Ulrickson, Mr. Raul Guereca, Mr. Sabino Carrejo, Mr. Harry Kelleher, and Mr. Leo Cancellare, who share their mission and devotion to Lasallian spirituality.
Alumni express a profound gratitude for the Brothers and the Lasallian lay teachers who, under the Brothers’ guidance, imparted not only academic knowledge but also the values of fides (fidelity to principle), mores (spiritual integrity and way of life), and cultura (enrichment of life through learning). Recognizing the immense dedication of the Christian Brothers, who have devoted their lives to educating their students, alumni feel an enduring responsibility to support the future of Cathedral High School, ensuring that the Brothers can continue to nurture young men of intellect, character, and faith, fostering a lifelong brotherhood rooted in respect and love to this day.
The Dei Gratia Award, meaning “By the Grace of God” in Latin, annually recognizes an individual, couple, or organization that demonstrates servant leadership, makes outstanding contributions to the Diocese of El Paso and the Catholic community, and exemplifies good stewardship of God’s grace. The Foundation of Faith Dinner Committee proposes nominees for the Dei Gratia Award, which is reviewed by the Executive Committee and approved by the Catholic Foundation’s Board of Directors. This year’s selection of the Christian Brothers underscores their foundational role in Cathedral High School’s history and ongoing success as it approaches its centennial celebration.
We invite you to come celebrate the Christian Brothers at the 20th Annual Foundation of Faith Event: Let Your Hope Shine on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the Starlight Event Center at 6650 Continental Dr., El Paso, TX, 79925, from 5-9 pm. The evening includes the cocktail reception, a seated dinner with wine, a Dei Gratia Award presentation, a live auction, and keynote speaker Sister Josephine Garrett. Proceeds from this event support the work of the Catholic Foundation in sustaining the long-term needs of our diocese ministries, charities, parishes, and schools. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Catholic Foundation Office at 915-872-8412 or online at https://catholicfoundationelpaso.org/events.
If you would like to donate to Cathedral’s Endowment Fund, you may do so below!