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Pope Leo has appointed Uganda-born Father Simon Peter Engurait as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in southeastern Louisiana in the United States.
The 53-year-old priest, ordained for the diocese in 2013, has been serving as acted as diocesan administrator since the death of Bishop Mario Dorsonville in January 2024.
"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," Engurait said in his statement.
"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."
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St Joseph's Cathedral, Houma–Thibodaux
A Unique Path to the Priesthood
Fr. Engurait’s journey to the priesthood is anything but conventional. Born in Ngora, Uganda, on August 28, 1971, he is the seventh of 14 children, with one sibling in the Franciscan order and another as a diocesan priest.
He initially pursued a degree in political science and public administration at Makerere University in Kampala before working for over a decade in Uganda’s government.
His career path also took him to the Netherlands for a graduate degree in business administration, where he worked in human resources and business analysis.
It was only after a transformative experience with the Catholic charismatic renewal in Uganda that Engurait felt a calling to the priesthood.
His path led him to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in 2007, where, under the guidance of Bishop Sam Jacobs, he entered seminary at the age of 36.
His ordination in 2013 marked the beginning of his priestly journey, which included serving in various roles within the diocese, including as associate pastor of St. Bridget Parish and vicar general.
Simon Peter Engurait
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Before his appointment as bishop, Fr. Engurait had already established himself as a strong leader within the diocese.
He held several key positions, such as moderator of the curia, coordinator of Christian formation, and vicar general for administration. His leadership extended to social causes, as he also served on the board of Catholic Charities.
His new appointment as bishop sees him continue his leadership journey, succeeding Dorsonville as the diocese’s sixth bishop.