Mary Queen of Peace: A Journey Through Our Parish History
Understanding the parish history of Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church allows us to appreciate the rich heritage and enduring spirit that has shaped our community. This blog aims to highlight the key moments and milestones that have defined our parish, from its founding and early challenges to significant events and developments over the years. By delving into our past, we celebrate the contributions of dedicated members and leaders who have guided our journey of faith and growth. Join us as we explore the history of Mary Queen of Peace and honor the legacy that continues to inspire and unite us.
Founding and Early Years
Long before the conveniences of rapid transportation, instant communication, or high mobility, a steadfast faith took root in Bossier Parish, primarily among family-owned agricultural lands. This faith was the Catholic faith, and it began with the Caplis family. Living in the heart of the “Bible Belt,” where Catholics were and still are few in number, the faith gradually spread to those who married into the family. Scholarships played a crucial role in ensuring that the children of subsequent generations received education in Catholic schools, helping to nurture and grow the faith within the community.
Significant Milestones in Parish History
In 1969, to honor family members who served and died in World War II, as well as those who supported the war effort by maintaining the farm, Mr. and Mrs. John A. Caplis built a chapel on land donated by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Caplis. The chapel was fittingly dedicated to Mary, Queen of Peace. On May 13, 1969, Bishop Charles P. Greco of the Diocese of Alexandria dedicated the chapel, which became a mission of Christ the King Catholic Church in Bossier City. Rev. Fr. Carson LaCaze, then pastor of Christ the King, oversaw this new mission. The first wedding in the chapel was between Joe and Margie Caplis, marking a significant milestone in the chapel’s early history.
Significant Milestones in Parish History
In 1969, to honor family members who served and died in World War II, as well as those who supported the war effort by maintaining the farm, Mr. and Mrs. John A. Caplis built a chapel on land donated by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Caplis. The chapel was fittingly dedicated to Mary, Queen of Peace.
On May 13, 1969, Bishop Charles P. Greco of the Diocese of Alexandria dedicated the chapel, which became a mission of Christ the King Catholic Church in Bossier City. Rev. Fr. Carson LaCaze, then pastor of Christ the King, oversaw this new mission. The first wedding in the chapel was between Joe and Margie Caplis, marking a significant milestone in the chapel’s early history.
Evolution and Growth of the Faith Community
Thirty years later, on March 17, 1999, Bishop William B. Friend, DD, of the Diocese of Shreveport, established Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church as a parish, with St. George Catholic Church in Coushatta as its mission. The growth of the community was marked by the dedication of a new church building on December 3, 2005, by Bishop Friend. The founding pastor, Msgr. Earl Provenza, V.F., was instrumental in guiding the community through this period of development and expansion. His leadership and hard work laid a strong foundation for the parish, helping to foster a vibrant and growing faith community.
Reflecting on the parish history of Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church reveals a tapestry of faith, dedication, and community spirit that continues to inspire us today. By celebrating our significant milestones and remembering the contributions of those who came before us, we honor the legacy that has built our vibrant parish. Preserving this history is about looking back and guiding future generations with the same values and commitment. We encourage all parishioners to share their stories and memories, helping to enrich our collective history. Together, we can continue to build on this foundation, ensuring that Mary Queen of Peace remains a beacon of faith and community for years to come.
If you want to share your story with our official history, contact us through our contact form on this page, by phone at 318-752-5971, or by email at secretary@mqop.com.