July 17, 2009
Recently the International Order of Alhambra presented St. Mary’s University with a plaque recognizing the University on its list of national Catholic historical sites – joining the organization’s list of more than 160 sites in the U.S. and Canada, including San Fernando Cathedral in downtown San Antonio.
Founded in 1852 by four Marianist brothers from France, St. Mary’s is San Antonio’s and the Southwest’s oldest Catholic institution. The International Order of Alhambra is a Catholic and fraternal organization that works “to mark, preserve, memorialize, commemorate and identify Catholic historical places, persons or events of international or regional importance.”
>The Order praised St. Mary’s for “defending religious liberty, welcoming and educating immigrants, spreading social justice, engaging in ecumenical dialogue, and enhancing catholic education.” Alhambra’s recognition of St. Mary’s was extra special because the Marianists are commemorating the 170th anniversary of their first papal recognition.