Father Simon-Peter Engurait Appointed Diocesan Administrator of Louisiana Diocese Following Bishop’s Death
Father Simon-Peter Engurait has been named as the diocesan administrator of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in Louisiana following the unexpected death of Bishop Mario Dorsonville. Bishop Dorsonville passed away on January 19 due to complications from liver disease, leaving the diocese without a bishop. Engurait, who has been serving as the vicar general of the diocese since 2017, was chosen by the college of consultors to fulfill the role of diocesan administrator until a new bishop is appointed by Pope Francis.
A native of Ngora District, Eastern Uganda, Engurait holds a master’s degree in divinity from Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans and was ordained as a priest in 2013. He has served as an associate pastor at various parishes, including St. Francis Cathedral in Houma and St. Genevieve in Thibodaux. Currently, he serves as the pastor of St. Bridget in Schriever.
Engurait expressed his gratitude and humility upon receiving the news of his appointment as diocesan administrator. He acknowledged the loss of Bishop Dorsonville and emphasized the importance of honoring his memory during this period of transition. Engurait called upon the faithful to pray for the soul of the late bishop, asking that he may find eternal rest and peace in the presence of God.
The diocese has also announced the schedule for visitation and funeral services for Bishop Dorsonville. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, January 31, at the Cathedral of St. Francis in Houma from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with evening prayer at 5:30 p.m. and a memorial Mass for the bishop at 7 p.m. On Thursday, February 1, visitation will be held at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux starting at 8 a.m., followed by the funeral Mass at 2 p.m. Bishop Dorsonville will be laid to rest on the grounds of the co-cathedral.
As the diocese mourns the loss of Bishop Dorsonville, Father Simon-Peter Engurait assumes his new role with a commitment to serving the people of the diocese. While awaiting the appointment of a new bishop, Engurait aims to continue the work of Bishop Dorsonville and fulfill the spiritual needs of the community. The faithful are encouraged to keep the diocese and its leadership in their prayers during this time of transition.
With Father Simon-Peter Engurait now serving as diocesan administrator, the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux will navigate this period of uncertainty and prepare for the future with hope and faith in God’s guidance.
