I was raised Catholic. So was my mother, and her mother and her mother before her. The community that I grew up in was also incredibly Catholic. Faith was, and is, a rhythm for my life. I remember growing up and falling in love with the traditions like Ash Wednesday and Palm Sunday. I loved the way I felt the culture radiating through each part of my community.
It is almost impossible to live in south Louisiana without interacting with Catholicism because it is almost impossible to separate the culture and history of this region from the faith. In fact, I am sure there are many parts of what those that live here assume to be normal but are really signs of a rich Catholic history.
Of course, this history began with those that settled this land; the Acadians. Originally from France, the Acadians moved to the French territory of Acadie for better economic prospects according to the Nova Scotia Archives. After their deportation from Nova Scotia the Cajuns brought their culture to the bayous of Louisiana. This, of course, included their faith which was incredibly important to them.
As I have traveled through the South I have noticed this bubble is very uncommon. This is largely because of the differences in colonization among the other parts of the southern part of America. The Association of Religious Data Archives publishes a map based on the religious information gathered in the census. There is a clear concentration of practicing Catholics in south Louisiana which provides a stark contrast with the rest of the state.
Even the fact that Louisiana has parishes instead of counties is a testament to the long lasting impact of faith. In the Diocese of Lafayette, there are 121 catholic church parishes for members of the church to choose from.
Holidays such as Mardi Gras, which so many tie exclusively to south Louisiana, are rooted in Catholicism. As the last day before the sacrificial season of Lent starts on Ash Wednesday, Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, has traditionally been a time to indulge in food and parties before Catholics must give something up until Easter.
Prayers are a central part of life for many, as well as the celebration of mass every weekend. Serving as a unifying force, Catholic prayers are the same anywhere one travels which gives many people a sense of home even when they are not at their usual parish.
The Catholic faith is so ingrained into the history of this region that it is incredibly special and rare. There is no other place quite like south Louisiana, for many reasons, but especially in culture and history. I am so thankful to have grown up in this area.