126 Years in Isle Brevelle

In 1889 the Congregation of Divine Providence (CDP) answered the call from Bishop Anthony Durier to staff schools in Alexandria, Natchitoches, Pineville, Cloutierville and Isle Brevelle and Many. The Sisters taught both Black and Caucasian children of the Diocese of Alexandria in various schools throughout Louisiana. In addition, the Sisters ministered in hospitals, public schools, operated and participated in parish religious education programs and retreats, worked in the diocesan offices and Catholic Charities. Of all these areas of ministry, the longest, successive ministry was in Isle Brevelle. Sister Annalee Prather’s departure from Isle Brevelle in October 2015, marked the end of this 126 year era.

Therefore, on April 23, 2016 the communities of St. Augustine Catholic Church and St. Joseph School in Isle Brevelle, Louisiana honored the Sisters of Divine Providence with a Jubilee Celebration. Pictures are worth a thousand words and those displayed depicted the long standing history and connection the Congregation of Divine Providence held with Isle Brevelle. In his weekly Sunday bulletin letter Reverend Charles B. Ray, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, wrote how he too was looking forward to the Sisters’ visit. “However, learning and discovering many of the stories of the Sisters’ tireless work has bubbled up a longing for a renewed presence of religious life in these lands.” He went on to state how he missed their presence and boldly challenged all parents to read Pope Francis’ Joy of Love that describes how to better educate your children. This includes discipline and allowing others to do so as well, something that many generations of families benefitted during the decades of CDP presence.

Photos below: Students crossing the Cane River to get to school; Sister Tiolinda Marotta with students at Parks Elementary School in Natchitoches, LA; Mobile-Ministry Sisters Ida Marie, Marcella Marie, Tiolinda, Virginia, and Ann Regina visiting Isle Brevelle, LA