In a landmark development for Uganda’s Catholic community, Pope Leo IV has named Monsignor Simon Peter Engurait as the new bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in Louisiana, United States.
The Vatican confirmed the appointment this week, signaling a moment of great pride and recognition for both the Ugandan Church and its growing global presence.
Bishop-elect Engurait, who has been serving as the diocesan administrator, now becomes the second Ugandan to be appointed bishop outside of Uganda. He follows Bishop Joseph Mary Kizito of Aliwal, South Africa, in this distinguished honor.
The news was formally delivered to the United States and to the diocese by Christophe Cardinal Pierre, the Vatican’s envoy to the U.S. and a former Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda.
In response to the appointment, Engurait expressed surprise and humility. “I did not expect this. I am humbled beyond words that the Holy Father has chosen me, not from outside, but from among the ranks of the priests of this beloved diocese,” he said in remarks shared by WWL Louisiana.
“I give thanks to God for the gift of life, for the call to the priesthood, and now, for this new and sacred calling to the apostolic ministry. Everything I am, and all that I hope to be, is by His grace,” he added.
Born on August 28, 1971, in Ngora, eastern Uganda, Engurait began his journey to priesthood through formation at Saint Peter Minor Seminary in Soroti and later at Saint Peter’s College in Tororo.
Prior to joining the seminary, he earned a degree in political science and public administration from Makerere University, followed by a Master’s in Business Administration from the Maastricht School of Management in the Netherlands.
After relocating to the United States, he completed his theological studies at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans, where he earned a Master of Divinity.
He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in 2013. Over the years, he has held several key roles including parish vicar, parish priest at Saint Bridget, vicar general, and diocesan administrator.
Engurait’s appointment is not only a milestone for his diocese but also a proud moment for Uganda, which continues to produce clergy serving around the world.
As the Church in Uganda grows in vocations, its contribution to global evangelization has become increasingly vital, reversing the old missionary dynamic by now sending its own to strengthen the Church abroad.
