Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Simon Peter Engurait, a 53-year-old Ugandan-born priest, as the new bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in Louisiana.
This appointment marks the first time a Ugandan and African immigrant has been named a bishop in the United States, highlighting Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to diversity and global representation within the Catholic Church.
The Vatican announced on June 5, 2025, the appointment of Father Engurait, who has served as the diocesan administrator of Houma-Thibodaux since January 2024 following the passing of Bishop Mario Dorsonville, expressed profound humility at the appointment.
“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,” Engurait said.
Bishop-elect Engurait who was born in 1971, studied at St. Peter’s College in Tororo, before earning a bachelor’s degree and an MBA in the Netherlands.
After discerning a call to the priesthood, he attended Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans, where he was ordained in 2012 at the age of 41. Since then, he has served in various pastoral and leadership roles in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, including as associate pastor at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, pastor of St. Bridget Church in Schriever, and vicar general. He is fluent in English, Ateso, Kiswahili, and Spanish, reflecting his global perspective.
The process of appointing bishops, as outlined by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, underscoring Pope Leo XIV’s trust in his pastoral leadership and ability to serve a diverse diocese.
Engurait’s appointment comes at a time when the Catholic Church is navigating complex social and political challenges globally.
Engurait has been in the U.S. for over a decade, his appointment may serve as a bridge between the global Church and local communities.
The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is preparing for Engurait’s episcopal ordination, with local Catholics expressing enthusiasm for his leadership.
As Bishop-elect Engurait steps into this new role, his appointment signals a continued emphasis on inclusivity and service in the Catholic Church under Pope Leo XIV’s leadership.
