The Diocese of Alexandria, established in 1853, serves a rich diversity of peoples: Native Americans, French, Spanish, English, Germans, Cajuns, West Indians, Africans, Irish and Italians. Most recent to come are Hispanics, many of whom work in the burgeoning nurseries industry. While Cajun country east and south of New Orleans is largely Catholic, Alexandria is located in predominantly Protestant central Louisiana, part of the “Bible Belt” where Catholics are a distinct minority. The diocese is mostly rural; agriculture and forest products are the mainstays of the struggling local economy. Louisiana ranks 49th in percentage of poor children; a child is born into poverty every 29 minutes in the state.
The Diocese of Alexandria has:
- 48,050 Catholics (12% of total population)
- 72 parishes and missions (40 without resident pastor)
- 35 active priests
2010 Grant
$125,000
Diocese Contact Information:
St. Joseph Catholic Center
4400 Coliseum Blvd.
Alexandria, LA 71303
Phone: 318-445-2401
Fax: 318-448-6121
Email: webmail@diocesealex.org
Website: www.diocesealex.org
