Familiar face, new bishop for Houma-Thibodaux

Father Simon Peter Engurait was named June 5 by Pope Leo XIV to be the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. 

Bishop-elect Engurait has served as the diocesan administrator of the diocese since January 2024, upon the death of Bishop Mario Dorsonville. He had served as vicar general and also as pastor of St. Bridget Parish since 2017. 

“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,” Bishop-elect Engurait said.

“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,” he said.

The date of his episcopal ordination has not been set.  

Born in Ngora, Uganda in 1971, Father Simon Peter is one of 14 children. His early education led him through Catholic seminaries in Uganda before a career in public service, including roles in Uganda’s government and earning a Master of Business Administration from the Netherlands.

While at Katigondo Seminary in Uganda, he had a profound encounter with the Catholic Charismatic Renewal that shaped his spiritual path and ultimately led him back to discern a priestly vocation.

In 2007, he was accepted as a seminarian for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and entered Notre Dame Seminary. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 25, 2013, by Bishop Sam Jacobs.

He served as associate pastor at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, St. Genevieve Church in Thibodaux and Christ the Redeemer in Thibodaux.

In January 2017, he was appointed as administrator and later pastor of St. Bridget Church in Schriever.

He has held multiple diocesan leadership positions including moderator of the curia, coordinator of Christian formation and vicar general. He also served as interim Executive director of Catholic Charities, and as a member of the Presbyteral Council and College of Consultors.

“I must admit that knowing the people of this diocese brings me great comfort in saying yes,” Bishop-elect Engurait said. “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. I love you, and I consider it a great honor to serve you as your bishop.”

“He’s a man of great prayer,” said Archbishop Gregory Aymond. “He’s a compassionate man who wants to do the right thing for the Lord. He wants to foster the kingdom of God in our world today, and he has a great love and affection for the people of Houma-Thibodaux.”