About the authors

This article examines the historical development of formally and informally segregated churches within the Diocese of Lafayette, Louisiana, the role segregated churches continue to have, and the attitudes of religious leaders within these churches towards the issue of racial integration. Data were obtained from surveys, interviews, and historical research. Interview and survey data used for this project were gleaned from Parish Council Presidents, Directors of Religious Education, the Diocesan Pastoral Council, and the Advisory Board for the Office of Black Catholic Ministries within the Diocese of Lafayette. One hundred fifty-five surveys were completed and returned. Thirty-four individuals were interviewed. In addition, the Diocese of Lafayette made their archives available to the researchers.