The Diocese of Austin will host its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. Austin Parish in Austin. Honoring MLK Jr.'s legacy, this event promotes social justice, civil rights, diversity, and freedom. The commemoration also promotes the goal of building peaceful communities with non-violence as a means to defeat injustice. This year, the diocese is highlighting 'From the Mountaintop: A Vision for Justice' based on MLK's final speech, 'I've Been to the Mountaintop.' 
Join us for a day of prayer and a light reception. 

"The question is not, "If I stop to help this man in need, what will happen to me?" The question is, "If I do not stop to help ... , what will happen to them?" That's the question."

Reverend D. Bruce Nieli, C.S.P.

Fr. Bruce was ordained a Paulist priest on May 5, 1973, at the Church of St. Paul the Apostle in New York City. A Catholic evangelist for over 50 years, he has focused his ministry on serving the poor and marginalized. Appointed a Papal Missionary of Mercy by Pope Francis, Fr. Bruce has held key leadership roles including Spiritual Advisor to Catholic Charities of Central Texas, Evangelization Director Emeritus for both the USCCB and the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, and Founding Director of the Center for Spiritual Development in the Archdiocese of New York. Throughout his ministry, he has remained a passionate advocate for justice, compassion, and missionary discipleship, embodying the Paulist charism of reaching out to those on the margins with the love and mercy of Christ.

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The Drum Major for Justice award, based upon Dr. King's "Drum Major Instinct Sermon," is given to an individual to recognize their work going above and beyond to serve others. This service is often reflected in the individual's commitment to social justice in disadvantaged communities.

"If you want to say that I was a drum major, say that I was a drum major for justice, say that I was a drum major for peace: I was a drum major for righteousness."