Fundraiser shines spotlight on silent heroes
who help carry out mission of serving the poor

By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles

LAKE CHARLES — One could easily agree that the good works of Catholic Charities of Southwest Louisiana can be described as “active love.” It is all about the day in and day out labor in showing up for the people God places in our path.

The annual Jazz Brunch fundraiser on Laetare Sunday, March 15, 2026, offered a festive opportunity at the Historic Cash & Carry for approximately 225 supporters to hear how the non-profit agency brings Christ’s merciful love to those in need throughout Southwest Louisiana.

By Ashley Kramer
Legatus Lake Charles Chapter

The Lake Charles Chapter of Legatus marked a significant milestone on February 26, 2026, as members gathered to celebrate the chapter’s 10th anniversary. The evening was a joyful reflection on a decade of faith, fellowship, and commitment to living out Catholic values in the marketplace.

By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles

WESTLAKE — Rev. Mr. Fred Reed marks his 50^th anniversary as a deacon on February 1, 2026. He was ordained a permanent deacon by Bishop Jerome J. Hastrich on February 1, 1976, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Oberlin.

Deacon Reed, who has served as a deacon for 42 years at St. John Bosco Catholic Church in Westlake, celebrated this milestone of his ministry with his wife Judy and their family on Saturday, January 3, at the 4:00 p.m. Mass.

Bishop Provost Reflects on Pursuit of Wisdom

By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles

LAKE CHARLES — One of Bishop Glen John Provost’s favorite things to do as Bishop of Lake Charles is celebrate the annual Catholic Schools Week Mass. He has been doing so for 19 years.

“It is always a pleasure to celebrate Catholic Schools Week with all of you,” he said as he looked out among the many students from across the Diocese of Lake Charles. “I look forward to this special Mass every year, with this year falling on the Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas.”

The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops recently released the Principles and Priorities for the 2026 Legislative Session: