THIBODAUX, La. (WVUE) - Simon Peter Engurait was ordained and installed Friday (Sept. 5) as the sixth bishop of the Catholic church’s Houma-Thibodaux diocese, the diocese announced.

As he was ordained by New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond at Nicholls State University, the 53-year-old, Ugandan-born priest became the first African native to serve as bishop of a Catholic diocese in the mainland United States.

“Holiness is a journey, not a possession,” Engurait said. “I do not pretend to be a saint, but I do long and strive for holiness. And I long for us to grow in holiness together.”

The Houma-Thibodaux diocese had been without a bishop since the death of Bishop Mario Dorsonville in January 2024. Engurait has led the diocese as administrator since 2024.

After moving to America, Engu

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