By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles

WELSH — A tug at Betty LaBouve's heart four decades ago has grown into a Christmas tradition at Our Lady of Seven Dolors Catholic Church making spirits bright for countless families. 

This year, nearly 100 Community Christmas Baskets were prepared with food and other essentials, along with hundreds of wrapped gifts for children. Among the presents too big to wrap were 30 bicycles on many “wish lists.” 

DECREE FOR THE JUBILEE YEAR 2025

Glen John Provost

by the Grace of God and the Favor of the Apostolic See

Bishop of Lake Charles

For an Everlasting Remembrance.

By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles

LAKE CHARLES — The third annual “Festival of Nations: Celebrating the Epiphany of the Lord” will return in 2025 with more countries, more food, and more entertainment!

Hosted by the Diocese of Lake Charles, the popular family-friendly bilingual event will take place on Saturday, January 4, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and Founders’ Hall. Admission is free.

December 2024 Prayer Intentions of Pope Francis and Bishop Glen John Provost:

By Pamela Seal 
Diocese of Lake Charles 

VINTON –– The Most Reverend Glen John Provost dedicated the new altar in the sanctuary at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Saturday, November 16, during the 4:00 p.m. Anticipated Sunday Mass. As the congregation sang “Gather the People” during the entrance procession, they had much to celebrate as they gathered in their newly restored church.

By Pamela Seal
Diocese of Lake Charles

The line to greet His Eminence Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke and kiss his ring lasted nearly two hours during a reception hosted in his honor at the American Legion Hall in Vinton on Sunday, October 27, 2024.

The 76-year-old cardinal blessed couples, families, children and individuals. He autographed prayer cards and books. He graciously posed for photographs — with a gentle smile — as countless keepsake images were snapped one after another with smartphones.