Maintaining the legacy, spirit of Father Benavides

    SAN ANTONIO • St. Timothy Church and the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department hosted a mural unveiling the evening of May 10 in Father Albert Benavides Park at 1500 Saltillo St.
    The mural, commemorating Father Benavides, was painted by local artist Citali Zentella.
    Following an introduction from Victor Valdez, interim director of the Parks and Recreation Department, an original song commemorating the life and legacy of Father Benavides, titled, “Vivir Tu Palabra,” was performed by Los Inocentes.
    Afterwards, San Antonio District 5 City Councilwoman Patti Radle remembered Father Benavides for his work as one of the founders of COPS (Communities Organized for Public Service).
    Zentella then presented the history behind the mural.
    Father Benavides was a native of San Antonio who received all of his education, from elementary school through the seminary, in his hometown.
    The third of six children, he began religious studies here at age 15.

    During his priesthood, he served at St. John Parish, St. Mary Magdalen Parish and St. Timothy Parish, prior to his death on May 1, 1984.
    Almost 21 years later, the painting of him was completed on March 31 of this year. “Hearing the different anecdotes on the impacting personality of Father Benavides, I understood his philosophy regarding life, religion, social justice and his veneration to the Mother of God,” said Zentella.
    Father Oscar Hernandez, pastor of St. Timothy Church, introduced Archbishop Emeritus Patrick F. Flores, who blessed and dedicated the mural.
    A ribbon cutting also featured the archbishop, Radle and the artist, who then signed the mural in paint.
    To conclude the event Los Inocentes performed “Santa María del Camino” and led the crowd across the street to a reception in the St. Timothy Parish Hall.