SPECIAL NOTE: His Excellency, Bishop Glen John Provost, is in the practice of issuing a guidance for Catholics before elections. The Catholic Church has always spoken out on matters of ethical and moral judgment, in imitation of our Lord and the admonitions of the Sacred Scriptures.

October 1, 2026

Dear Clergy and Laity of the Diocese of Lake Charles,

Greetings in the Lord, who is our hope!

An important midterm election is fast approaching. As I have done in the past, I wish to offer a brief word of guidance, particularly concerning the importance of conscience for the Catholic voter.

SULPHUR — His Excellency, The Most Reverend Glen John Provost, Bishop of the Diocese of Lake Charles, solemnly consecrated St. Francis de Sales Oratory on Monday, October 12, 2026. The historic hours-long ceremony marked the first church consecration in the American Province of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest in 18 years.

By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles

Justin Fontenot, a seminarian for the Diocese of Lake Charles, was blessed with the opportunity to meet Pope Leo XIV with other students in Rome in late August.

Pope Leo received seminarians during a private audience in Clementine Hall in the Apostolic Palace before leading the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square. The visit on Sunday, August 23, 2026, with the newest class members of the Pontifical North American College was a special way for them to say hello as the Holy Father’s newest neighbors.

October 2026 Prayer Intentions of Pope Leo XIV and Bishop Glen John Provost:

By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles

LAKE CHARLES — Father Michael Champagne, Religious Superior for the Community of Jesus Crucified, still recalls two words spoken to him by Pope John Paul II in Rome four decades ago that he said saved his life from darkness and remain with him to this day.