Causes for Canonization Opened at Chancery

     A historic journey began today as three Acadiana residents took the first step toward possible sainthood in the Catholic Church! 
     On Saturday, January 11, 2020, at the Immaculata Chapel in Lafayette, Bishop J. Douglas Deshotel of the Diocese of Lafayette officially opened the “Cause for Canonization” of Miss Charlene Richard and Mr. Auguste “Nonco” Pelafigue. A third candidate for Beatification/Canonization is Lt. Father Verbis Lafleur, whose cause requires the collaboration of two other bishops in order to receive necessary permissions, due to Fr. Lafleur’s military service. We expect these technical, canonical matters to be resolved shortly. Once resolved, Bishop Deshotel intends to open Fr. Lafleur’s “Cause for Canonization” as soon as possible. Nonetheless, Fr. Lafleur was also recognized at the events today. 
     During the ceremony, Bishop Deshotel welcomed supporters and the groups representing Charlene Marie Richard, Auguste “Nonco” Pelafigue, and Father Joseph Verbis LaFleur, as well as families and individuals who knew these candidates when they lived and served in our Diocese. Father Luis Escalante, a canon lawyer, who lives in Italy was also present and will serve as postulator for the causes of two of our candidates. Also present for the ceremony were individuals, clergy and laypersons who will serve as officials in the various canonical positions which are necessary according to the law of the Church for the investigation of these causes, and who will help to ensure that the investigations into the lives of these candidates will seek only the truth and be faithful to the law of the Church. 
     Following the prayer service, a press conference was held for the media at the Immaculata Center. With the formal opening of their sainthood cause, Charlene and Nonco now have the title "Servant of God." A formal inquiry will begin a review of their lives, work, and holiness. What a glorious day for the Diocese of Lafayette!