From the Editor
From the bayous to the bluegrass
LUCKY THEM!
Now that the dust has settled and the frenzy that accompanies the announcement of our bishop being named to another diocese or in this case an archdiocese, the reality of the situation really sinks in. Our beloved Bishop Shelton J. Fabre is leaving this flock of Catholic faithful to minister to the very fortunate people of Louisville, KY. Bishop Fabre has been with us for the past eight and a half years. In those years he has guided us with wisdom, patience and compassion. In using the words of Very Rev. Jay L. Baker, J.C.L., during the press conference for the local media, he said “Bishop Fabre was a very courageous bishop for us. He took us places we have never been before, and led us to do things we have never done both as a presbyterate and as a diocese. It was very encouraging to have him with us and do the things we have done during the eight and a half years that he was with us.” During Bishop Fabre’s tenure here he faced many good times and unfortunately some difficult times, as well. It was during his third year here that local economy took a downturn and tough decisions had to be made on the future of how as a diocese we minister and walk with the people in their faith. Due mostly notably to a decline in oil and gas royalty revenues, the diocese had to
take steps to reduce its fiscal year operating budget affecting many positions at the Pastoral Center. It was shortly after that when Bishop Fabre introduced the parishioner-driven strategic planning process which was promulgated during the diocese’s 40th anniversary in 2017. The strategic plan included long-term objectives and a vision for all diocesan ministries. Now after almost five years, the strategic plan is bearing fruit and the bishop’s vision of being more intentional in ministry and helping the faithful become missionary disciples is becoming a reality. Most recently our area suffered the most destructive hurricane in local history with Hurricane Ida ripping through the heart of the diocese. The devastating hurricane affected thousands of people throughout the diocese, especially in our coastal communities. This hurricane was described as a life changing moment for many. Bishop Fabre was on the frontlines helping the needy as soon as the hurricane passed and it was somewhat safe to venture out. He visited the church parishes and the people in the communities. He worked closely with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux and diocesan leadership to develop a plan to quickly aid those who needed it and begin the process of recovery and rebuilding. As someone who has covered many events that the bishop has attended or led, it is easy to see his love for the people. In return, the people of the diocese love Bishop Fabre. His attentiveness to a person when they are speaking to him, his soothing, calming voice when in a discussion and his genuine empathy for those who may be suffering make him a
6 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • March 2022
person who exudes compassion. It is no wonder that he chose “Comfort My People” as his motto when he became a bishop. Through the years working with Bishop Fabre, I have witnessed him as a strong leader with a mindful heart of compassion. He is always thinking of the common good when making a decision. I am sure I speak for many when I say thank you Bishop Fabre for walking in faith with the people of Houma-Thibodaux. You will truly be missed, and in our prayers as you embark on your journey as Archbishop of Louisville. Thank you for bringing us closer to God through your leadership and your example that love and kindness prevail over evil and death. I for one can say that the past eight and a half years have been a time of growth and encouragement for our diocese. Bishop Fabre, you are heading to the bluegrass country of Kentucky where American horseracing is king. I read a quote from Federico Tesio, a renowned horse breeder who says, “a horse gallops with his lungs, perseveres with his heart and wins with his character.” My money is on Bishop Fabre to do very well in the Archdiocese of Louisville: To win the hearts of the Catholic faithful there, and be a “hands down” favorite through the “home stretch.” Remember, after reading Bayou Catholic, pass it on to a friend or relative who might not be attending Mass. It’s one of the great ways to do your part in spreading the Good News. BC
Lawrence
Lawrence Chatagnier Editor & General Manager
