The Fête-Dieu du Teche made its way down the Bayou Teche today, August 15.
This year's 40-mile Eucharist Procession will be offered in petition for an end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Masks and social distancing are required for everyone in attendance. The procession started Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. with a French Mass at St. Leo Catholic Church in Leonville, followed by the launch at the nearby boat landing at 9:30 a.m. The procession ended Saturday afternoon in St. Martinville.
The procession stops at each town for the praying of the Rosary and benediction. Confession was also available at each stop in mobile units.
Fête-Dieu du Teche marks the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Patroness of the Acadian people and of Acadiana. August 15 is also the 225th anniversary of the arrival of French-Canadian immigrants who brought the Catholic faith to Acadiana, according to the Diocese of Lafayette.
"It's great to see so many priests that come out and seminarians that come out, but for me personally, it's always a rejuvenation of my faith. A day like this, putting all the effort into it - it's a grace-filled day," said Fr. Garrett McIntire, pastor of St. Bernard Church.
Residents were invited to gather at any of the below stops.
9:30 a.m. Procession launches at Leonville boat landing
10:20 a.m. Recitation of the Rosary at Arnaudville
11:45 a.m. Recitation of the Rosary at Cecilia
1:45 p.m. Recitation of the Rosary at Breaux Bridge
3:15 p.m. Recitation of the Rosary at Parks
4:45 p.m. Procession will disembark in St. Martinville at the Evangeline Oak, then proceed on foot, first to Notre Dame Catholic Church, then to St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church, then move down Main Street to Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel
Today's event was live streamed HERE.
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