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Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Simon Peter Engurait as the new bishop of Houma-Thibodaux. The announcement was made by the Vatican on June 5, following Engurait's service as diocesan administrator since January 2024 after Bishop Mario Dorsonville's passing.
Bishop-designate Engurait expressed his surprise and gratitude for the appointment. "I did not expect this — I am humbled beyond words that the Holy Father has chosen me, not from outside, but from among the ranks of the priests of this beloved Diocese," he said on the diocesan website. He further stated, "I give thanks to God for the gift of life, for the call to the priesthood, and now, for this new and sacred calling to the apostolic ministry. Everything I am, and all that I hope to be, is by His grace."
Born in Uganda in 1971, Engurait has an extensive academic background. He studied at St. Peter’s College in Tororo and Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans. He holds a bachelor's degree from Makerere University in Kampala (1995), a master of divinity from Notre Dame Seminary (2013), and an MBA from Maastricht School of Management.
Ordained on May 25, 2013, Engurait served various roles within his diocese before becoming administrator at St. Bridget Church in Schriever in 2017. He has held leadership positions such as moderator of the curia and vicar general.
Expressing his affection for South Louisiana where he considers home, Engurait said: “While I am still shocked by the news that the Lord has asked me to be a bishop, I must admit that knowing the people of this diocese brings me great comfort in saying yes." He added: "South Louisiana is home, and I love the people here. It is a privilege to say yes to you as much as I am saying yes to God."
The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux spans 3,500 square miles with over 75,000 Catholics.
