Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux
In July 2026, the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux joyfully hosted its annual St. Kateri Tekakwitha Mass at Holy Family Catholic Church in Dulac, Louisiana, bringing together a packed church of Native American families representing tribal communities throughout our region. Bishop Simon Peter Engurait presided over the celebration, sharing in prayer, fellowship, and the rich cultural traditions of our Native American Catholic community.
This celebration reflects the Diocese’s growing commitment to strengthening Native American ministry. At the beginning of the new fiscal year, Bishop Simon Peter appointed Kathy Verdin as Coordinator for the Office of Native American Ministries. Working in collaboration with the diocesan Office of Evangelization, Kathy will focus on building relationships with our tribal communities, strengthening opportunities for faith formation and evangelization, and helping preserve and celebrate the cultural traditions that are an important part of their Catholic identity.
The Diocese is also blessed by the continued ministry of its two active Kateri Circles: the St. Kateri Circle of Dulac at Holy Family Catholic Church and the St. Charles the Roch Kateri Circle serving the Pointe-aux-Chenes/Montegut community. Affiliated with the National Tekakwitha Conference, these circles unite our local Native American Catholics with communities across the United States, Canada, and Central and South America.
Through the example and intercession of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, our Native American ministry seeks to share the Gospel while fostering faith, unity, friendship, peace, love, compassion, and respect for the beautiful cultural gifts of our tribal communities. The Diocese looks forward to expanding this ministry and inviting even more families to encounter Christ while celebrating the faith and heritage that unite generations.
