Editor's EyeView

At the end of March, Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville was officially installed as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in a grand celebration at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.

Many of his close friends traveled a great distance to be here in person so that they could participate in his Mass of Installation and to show their love and support for him and his friendship. Thousands of lay faithful from throughout the diocese also shared in this historic moment either in person or by watching the celebration as it was being livestreamed via the diocese’s various social media platforms. The livestream was also simulcast by HTV, CatholicTV Network out of Boston, MA; We Are One Body Catholic® Radio Network (WAOB.org) out of Latrobe, PA; and EWTN.
                                                                                                                                                Lawrence Chatagnier/Bayou Catholic

Following the Installation Mass, a reception was held where hundreds stood in line for the opportunity to greet the newly installed bishop, take a photo with him and welcome him to Houma-Thibodaux. The day was a truly joyous and memorable occasion.  

I was fortunate that I was able to speak to some of Bishop Dorsonville’s close, personal friends as we were putting together this special edition of Bayou Catholic magazine and then meet them in person at the celebration.
Their testaments speak of a priest and bishop who has “ … a warm heart … a love for service … a deep faith in what he does for the Lord … a great sense of humor … a joyful demeanor … the wisdom of a shepherd … a special love for the priesthood … is compassionate … humble … and whose door is always open to everyone, regardless of their circumstance in life.”

My hope is that all of you, our loyal readers, will take the time to read about your new bishop in this special edition and get to know him a little better through the words of those who know him best.

With much anticipation and gratitude, I welcome you, Bishop Mario Dorsonville, to our diocese. The staff of the Bayou Catholic, which is the official magazine of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux – your magazine – looks forward to working with you. I have enjoyed speaking with your friends and reading about you in the articles they shared with our publication. I can’t wait to get to know you and work with you to share your Good News with the people of our great diocese.

Thank you for the enthusiasm, eagerness and joy that you have shown to all of us since your arrival. I pray that you experience that same enthusiasm, eagerness and joy from everyone you encounter as you began your ministry to the people of God in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.