In 2023, Seton Teaching Fellows ventured south and added a new location where fellows can now serve: the Rio Grande Valley in Mission, Texas. So far, our fellows have loved the familial atmosphere of the school and the relationships they have formed! South Texas itself has also become a beloved home with lots of favorite spots. While it’s hard to choose, here are some of the fellows’ favorite places to visit while serving in the Rio Grand Valley!
1. Delia’s Tamales:
Delia’s is a South Texas staple and a place where fellows take full advantage of the region’s delicious cuisine. The restaurant, which opened almost 30 years ago, was founded by Delia with just $20 in her pocket. Delia and her sister “started with five pounds of masa and used all of their proceeds to continue making tamales.” Each morning, they set out with their freshly-cooked tamales in coolers, going door-to-door and business-to-business selling them to the delight of customers. Once she outgrew this method and realized how popular her tamales were, Delia set up more permanent locations.Today Delia’s is a staple in the STF household as well as the wider Rio Grande Valley.
2. St. Paul Catholic Church:
Fellows frequent this nearby church for essential time with the Lord in front of the Blessed Sacrament. It’s also a great spot for Mass or Confession, as its architecture aims to express the Apostles’ Creed through building materials.
3. St. Jude Thaddeus in Pharr:
Are you a liturgy nerd? Look no further! Fellows enjoy going to Mass a little further afield for the beautiful, traditional liturgy.
4. H.E.B.:
If you’re wondering why this is here, then you’ve never been to H.E.B.! Fellows from different parts of the country have their favorite grocery stores back home. (For example, in the South it’s Buc-ee’s and out East everyone loves Wegeman’s.) Here in Texas, H.E.B. is a beloved necessity and way of life. The store’s dedication to Texas and its great customer service make grocery shopping more than a chore for the Texas fellows, whether they’re shopping for community dinner or a classroom celebration.
5. South Padre Island:
One of the biggest perks of being a fellow in Texas is proximity to the beach. About an hour and a half away, South Padre Island is a place fellows love to hit up for some sun, fresh air, and frisbee. The island is full of life and activities: bird-watching, fishing, dolphin-watching, great restaurants, live music, and all the beach fun you can imagine. Daniela Ochoa, Cohort 11, recommends: “There are many beach accesses, so be sure to pick one that has a restaurant nearby! Don’t forget to put on sunscreen and re-apply (even on the bottom of your feet!).”
6. Longboard Bar & Grill:
Though not in Mission proper, fellows recommend Longboard as a great spot for live music and good food while visiting South Padre. Once a week they have a country music night and all week long they’ve got excellent food and drink specials.
7. Stripes Gas Station:
Sometimes all you need after a long day is a “Polar Pop” and on those days, Stripes is here for you. Spencer Favaloro and other fellows in Cohort 11 have made a tradition of heading to Stripes for a soda and a smile on the hard days that inevitably come while teaching.
8. National Butterfly Center:
Home to over 240 species of butterflies, over 40% of the many species of butterflies in America have been seen here! A beautiful natural respite to relax in and experience awe at God’s creation.
9. Basilica of San Juan de Valle:
One of the most visited Marian shrines in the United States, the Basilica of San Juan began in 1920 as a small wooden chapel. Devotion to Our Lady of San Juan began in Mexico around 1623 when Our Lady healed a young acrobat who’d fallen during a routine. Years later, the church was hit by a small aircraft but no one except the pilot was killed— another miracle that strengthened devotion to Our Lady of San Juan. While there, you can walk the beautiful grounds, attend Mass, pray the Stations of the Cross, or go to Confession. It’s a great spot for a little retreat with the Lord.
10. Trufit Athletic Club:
A gym that fits an STF’s budget! Trufit is a local, easy place to workout and maintain a healthy, balanced life, which is essential during a year on mission. Michael Pecha, Cohort 11, recommends going early to avoid the crowds at this popular gym.
11. Twisted Sista’s Coffee:
Last but not least, within a short walk from the fellows’ house sits a great neighborhood coffee shop. They’ve got delicious drinks, homemade pastries, and good breakfast food. An excellent place to get some work done or celebrate a Feast Day!
