Sacred Sculptor Carves out a Niche in San Antonio Cathedrals

San Antonio Express-News reporter Abe Levy chronicles the works of modern day sacred artist Agustin Parra, whose works are a focus of devotion in San Fernando Cathedral and Mission San José, two of the city’s oldest churches. The re-opening of Mission San Jose last week features a “towering retablo” by the internationally renowned Mexican religious sculptor, who has seven pieces in the downtown cathedral and has been commissioned by two popes. “In my opinion, (Parra) is probably the best in the world in doing this kind of work,” said Father David Garcia, a cathedral expert who heads the project to restore the city’s four Spanish missions. “He’s very reverent. This is his life. It’s not just a paycheck. He’s really dedicated to this artwork that is slowly being lost around the world.”