St. Joseph Chauvin Re-Opens Its Doors

It’s been a long, four years for many churches in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, and St. Joseph Church in Chauvin has been among them. Originally dedicated in 1966, the church suffered extensive water damage from Hurricane Ida, mainly to the roof which resulted in water damage.

“The water was everywhere. It was a mess with buckets and towels. You could see water marks on the pews,” said parishioner Emily Neil.

But St. Joseph Church never stopped being a home for its people.

In the early days of recovery, the youth center next door became a distribution point for supplies, food and fuel. “I was amazed by the people that came to help after the storm,” said church secretary Tracie Defelice. It was inspiring to see.”

Just weeks later, Mass resumed in the church—despite a tarped roof, leaking ceilings, and buckets around the pews. “We had a building and rain buckets. We counted ourselves fortunate because other churches didn’t have a building at all,” said parishioner Bernardine Smith.

The church was being renovated over time, but in parts, to where mass could still be held while the work continued.

On July 1, 2024, the church closed for major renovations and their masses moved to the youth center next door, which was previously renovated. “We are thankful and truly blessed to continue masses daily in the youth center,” said Bernardine. That’s when Fr. Carl Collins became the pastor and continued to guide the parish through its final stretch of recovery. 
Finally, on February 15, 2025, the doors of St. Joseph Church reopened for good. With the help of loyal and committed parishioners, the church was cleaned and prepared for Mass that afternoon.

The renovation brought much-needed renewal: a new roof, ceiling, electrical work, lighting, paint, and interior restoration. Mass attendance is even up! “We are so happy,” said Lana Pellegrin. “It’s so heavenly to be back in our beautiful church.”

Today, St. Joseph Church is thriving—now stronger than ever, thanks to a powerful sense of community and the unwavering faith of its people.