By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles
It was a rare occurrence, but on Thursday, May 29, 2025, Morris LeBleu, longtime Director of Communications for the Diocese of Lake Charles, was seen at an event without his camera. This time, the focus was on him while being honored during his retirement luncheon following 38 dedicated years.
His first day on the job was November 1, 1986, and since that time has served under three bishops — the late Bishop Jude Speyrer, founding bishop; Bishop Edward Braxton; and currently, Bishop Glen John Provost.
“When Bishop Speyrer offered me the role I initially played here in the diocese, he asked one request of me — to stay at least three years. I think I am over the limit,” Morris told a room full of clergy and staff at the Lodge at Camp Karol in Moss Bluff.
While he is often seen behind the lens of a camera, his work has encompassed much more than photography.
Morris was hired as Director of Planned Gift Development to seek contributions through estate planning tools. Early in his tenure, he was also appointed to the Communications Advisory Board. For at least 12 years, he wore two hats simultaneously as Director of Development and Director of Communications.
It was only fitting that Deacon George Stearns, former Chancellor and Archivist who retired in 2024 after 44 years, offered comments about Morris’ longtime career since the two share a lot of institutional knowledge about the 45-year-old Diocese.
“I was asked as an ‘old hat’ to say a few words about another ‘old hat’,” Deacon Stearns remarked jokingly.
"Morris has always been forever present in giving his best in his role as communications director for the diocese. The words that come to my mind are commitment, dedication, loyalty, caring, and strength,” said Stearns. “Morris has unquestionably made a mark through his work as editor of the Catholic Calendar (monthly diocesan publication) by leaving us a treasure chest of stories and photographs that will be more and more appreciated in years to come. From one old hat to another, thank you, Morris, for all you have done.”
Bishop Provost described Morris as omnipresent.
“In my 18 years as bishop, it didn’t matter what day it was, even a holiday, when I would go to the Chancery, Morris was always the first person there,” he pointed out.
“I want to express my gratitude to you for all that you have done for me personally as bishop and for my predecessors,” His Excellency said. “You were always very helpful to them. Both Bishop Speyrer and Bishop Braxton spoke highly of your abilities, your presence, and your gifts. We are most grateful for your diligent and dedicated service. Know of our gratitude and our continued prayers for you and Sallye. You may leave, but you are still the omnipresent Morris.”
Memorable Moments
One doesn’t keep a diocese informed and connected for nearly 40 years without some memorable moments. Several that come to mind for Morris include:
1. Site blessing for Saint Charles Center in Moss Bluff and official opening of the facility
2. Publication of the diocesan newspaper — The Southwest Catholic — from 1987 to August 2005
3. Diocesan presence on the internet
4. Three-year pilgrimage around the diocese leading up to the year 2000 and the midnight Mass in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
5. Hurricanes of 2005, 2008, and 2020 and their aftermaths
6. Appointment of the second bishop of Lake Charles — Bishop Braxton — and the press conference in the Chancery Assembly Room on Iris Street
7. Naming of Bishop Provost, current bishop, in 2017 after a nearly 18-month interregnum
Morris commented that he had the opportunity to work with some “extraordinary priests” over the years.
“As I look at some of our priests who I saw as seminarians and watched them grow in their ministry, in their vocation, I perceived early on that to do my job properly, I had to see it differently than a regular job,” he remarked. “I am appreciative of all that you do in your various ministries and in your vocations as clergy.”
Morris also acknowledged someone significant in helping him fulfill his role as Director of Communications.
“There is one other person I would like to thank, and that is my wife, Sallye, of nearly 43 years. She has made me the person that I am and allowed me to do these things,” he said. “There were times when she wasn’t sure whether I was married to her or to the Church because of that omnipresence the bishop mentioned.”
Many across the four deaneries of the Diocese of Lake Charles can look forward to seeing Morris “behind the lens” as he will continue to assist with photography at various events, something he enjoys doing.
“The everyday interplay with the people with whom I worked and those in the public that I interacted with at many events and liturgical services has been my favorite part these past 38 years,” Morris said. “You have not seen the last of me. I hope to be around for a long time and assist where I can.”
