From historic museums exploring everything from our musical or spiritual heritage to how food gets to your table, along with outdoors from hiking greens to golfing greens, and shopping authentic main streets and arts, boutiques, antiques and uniques as well as a beautiful, cultural drive along our Zydeco Cajun Prairie Byway, enjoy the attractions of Acadia, Cajun Harvest Country.
St. Joseph Catholic Church was established in 1892 as a canonical parish within the Archdiocese of New Orleans, marking the beginning of a rich legacy of faith in the Iota community. Over the decades, the parish has flourished and now stands as a vibrant and active community within the West Region of the Diocese of Lafayette, Louisiana. With more than 800 families—representing over 2,200 parishioners—St. Joseph continues to be a spiritual home where generations gather in worship, prayer, and service through the Sacramental life of the Church.
As part of its commitment to Catholic education, St. Joseph Church is the owner parish of St. Francis Elementary School, which sits adjacent to the church, and is one of seven owner parishes supporting Notre Dame High School of Acadia Parish in Crowley.
In addition to the main parish church, the faith community is also served by St. Michael Chapel, a mission church located on Egan Highway beside Egan Elementary School. The current chapel structure was completed in 1981 under the leadership of Fr. John Hassink, who lived in residence at St. Michael from 1974 to 1986 and provided dedicated pastoral care to the families of that area.
Service Times:
Sunday Morning- 10:15 am
Wednesday-worship practice 4:00pm
Thursday Adult Bible Study- 5:30pm
Foodbank Saturdays, after 2nd Thursday monthly
The Sanctuary of Worship is a multicultural, fun and exciting place to worship God. We would love to have you as a guest and become part of the family.
The Shrine of Our Mother of Mercy Catholic Church is located at 600 W. Jefferson Davis Avenue in Rayne, Louisiana, has been a cornerstone of faith and community since its establishment in 1924. Founded as a mission of St. Theresa Catholic Church in Crowley, it became an independent parish under the guidance of the Josephite Fathers and Brothers, who have faithfully served the congregation since its inception.
The church’s mission is deeply rooted in providing spiritual nourishment, education, and support to its members. In its early years, the parish addressed the educational needs of the community by opening a school in 1924, utilizing materials from the original St. Joseph’s Hall. This initiative, supported by Mother Katharine Drexel (now Saint) aimed to uplift the African American community in the area.
Today, the Shrine of Our Mother of Mercy continues to be a beacon of hope and mercy, fostering a welcoming environment for all. Under the leadership of Pastor, Rev. Edward Chiffriller, SSJ, the church offers regular Masses, sacraments, and various ministries that cater to the spiritual and communal needs of its diverse congregation.
The parish remains committed to its founding principles of faith, education, and community service, striving to embody the mercy and love exemplified by the Blessed Virgin Mary.
House of Worship where everyone is welcome, but Jesus is the center of attraction.
