18 Jun CFSL’s Maximilian Kolbe Society Hosts Inaugural Men’s Retreat and Presents $100,000 Gift to Diocese
More than a year after its founding, the Maximilian Kolbe Society of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana celebrated a significant milestone with its inaugural men’s retreat, “Reclaiming Kingship: A Day of Prayer, Formation, and Brotherhood,” held Saturday, June 13, at E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux.
The retreat brought together Catholic men from across the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux for a day centered on faith, fraternity, and spiritual renewal. Participants experienced inspiring presentations from Fr. Nick Ware of the Diocese of Lafayette and nationally recognized Catholic speaker Paul George, along with opportunities for prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, Confession, the Rosary, fellowship, and meaningful discussion.
The day also featured the presence of Bishop Simon Peter Engurait, Bishop Emeritus Sam Jacobs, Fr. Andre Melancon, Fr. Mitch Semar, and diocesan seminarians. Bishop Emeritus Sam Jacobs celebrated Mass, while Bishop Simon Peter led participants in prayer and encouraged the men in their shared mission of strengthening the Church through faithful Catholic leadership.
“The Holy Spirit was present throughout the entire day,” said Amy Ponson, CEO of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana. “It was inspiring to witness so many men gathering to deepen their faith, build authentic brotherhood, and answer God’s call to leadership within their families, parishes, and communities.”
The retreat concluded with a special presentation celebrating the mission and growing impact of the Maximilian Kolbe Society. Amy Ponson, CEO of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana, joined Bishop Simon Peter Engurait, members of the Society’s Steering Committee, and diocesan seminarians in presenting a check for $100,000 to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Through the Society’s collective annual membership, 100% of gifts directly support vocations by helping cover the costs of seminary education and living expenses for diocesan seminarians. The milestone reflects the Society’s commitment to ensuring that future generations of faithful priests are formed and equipped to serve the people of God throughout South Louisiana.
The gift represents a major milestone for the organization, which was launched in 2025 as a brotherhood of Catholic lay men dedicated to supporting seminarians, promoting priestly vocations, strengthening Catholic men through faith formation and fellowship, and serving the Church throughout the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.
Named in honor of St. Maximilian Kolbe, the patron saint known for his heroic sacrifice and unwavering devotion to Christ, the Society seeks to inspire men to live lives of faith, service, stewardship, and leadership. Through membership, events, prayer opportunities, and charitable support, members help provide resources for seminarians while fostering a stronger Catholic presence throughout the region.
“To reach this level of impact in just one year is truly extraordinary,” said Ponson. “This milestone reflects the generosity of our members and supporters, as well as the tremendous need and enthusiasm among Catholic men seeking deeper faith and meaningful community.”
The Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana extended its gratitude to the Maximilian Kolbe Society Steering Committee, clergy, volunteers, sponsors, and Foundation staff whose dedication helped bring the inaugural retreat to life. Men interested in learning more about the Maximilian Kolbe Society or becoming members are encouraged to visit www.kolbesociety.org or contact the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana at 985-850-3116.
About the Maximilian Kolbe Society
The Maximilian Kolbe Society is a ministry of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana that unites Catholic men throughout the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in prayer, formation, fellowship, and service. Inspired by the example of St. Maximilian Kolbe, members support priestly vocations and seminarians while growing in their own faith and commitment to the Church. Through collective membership and charitable giving, the Society provides ongoing support for seminarians and vocations initiatives within the diocese.
About the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana
The Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana inspires philanthropy and manages charitable funds that support Catholic ministries, parishes, schools, seminarians, and outreach efforts throughout the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Since its founding, the Foundation has distributed millions of dollars to strengthen and sustain the mission of the Catholic Church in South Louisiana.
