About Us
Byzantine Catholicism
The Byzantine Rite centers on the Divine Liturgy, primarily of St. John Chrysostom or St. Basil, distinguished by its elaborate chants, incense, and rich iconography. Icons, revered as “windows to heaven,” are central to both communal worship and personal devotion, fostering a deep spiritual connection. The liturgy’s mystical structure emphasizes theosis, the transformative process of becoming united with God through grace, a core concept drawn from Eastern theologians like St. Gregory Palamas. Hymns and prayers, often sung a cappella, create an immersive, contemplative atmosphere. The liturgical calendar, frequently based on the Julian Calendar, shapes the rhythm of life, with feasts like Pascha (Easter) and Nativity celebrated on distinct dates. Extended fasting periods, such as Great Lent, are integral, promoting spiritual discipline and renewal. Sacraments, including Chrismation (confirmation) immediately following Baptism, reflect a holistic approach to initiation. The sign of the cross, made with two fingers, and the use of leavened bread in the Eucharist highlight unique ritual distinctions from the Latin Rite.
St. Nicholas of Myra and the Byzantine Outreach
The Byzantine Catholic Mission of St. Nicholas of Myra, established in 1976 in New Orleans, began with Father Francis Twardzik celebrating the Divine Liturgy. It became a mission in 1984, settling at 2435 South Carrollton Avenue by 1999. Despite Hurricane Katrina's damage in 2005, the church reopened in 2008 under Father Phillip Linden. The Mission is now undergoing remodeling and is under the administration of Fr. Dcn. Haddad and celebrant Fr. John Brown, SSJ. It serves as the longest-lasting Byzantine initiative in Louisiana.
In 2023, the Byzantine Outreach of Acadiana took root in Lafayette, Louisiana, driven by a shared passion for Eastern Catholic traditions among six founding families. Recognizing the growing interest in the Byzantine Rite in a predominantly Latin Rite region, these families connected with Fr. Deacon Gregory Haddad to explore establishing a mission.Many had attended Byzantine churches elsewhere, such as St. Mary’s in Ambridge, PA, Holy Resurrection in Knoxville, TN, and St. Nicholas of Myra in New Orleans, LA. They formed a text group to coordinate and plan, aiming to bring the Byzantine Rite to a mostly Latin Rite area.
On February 2, 2025, another Divine Liturgy at St. Patrick’s Church drew 85 attendees. Afterward, the group gathered in the fellowship hall for a meal and refreshments, fostering community ties.
Recently, four members traveled to the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to obtain liturgical items for services. During the trip, they attended a Diaconate Ordination and met the Bishop of Parma, strengthening ties to the broader Byzantine Catholic Church. These items will be used in the next Divine Liturgy, set for July 20, 2025, at St. Patrick’s fellowship hall.