Father Floyd Calais, known as “Flo” to his friends and family, joins Discover Lafayette to share his incredible faith journey. He is well known not only for his service as an active priest but also as a beacon of faith and hope for his many friends who visit him weekly to receive a blessing from God.

Father Floyd Calais as a young man. He still looks quite the same as he did 83 years ago!

Father Calais was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest on June 3, 1950, and has served at churches in New Iberia, Melville, Richard, and Abbeville. He also served at Charity Hospital and St. Genevieve in Lafayette, with his last service being as Pastor at Holy Cross Church.

Father Floyd Calais during his ordination with his mentor, Father Braquet at the far right.

Father Calais retired in 1994 after 40 years in the priesthood. Olivia Savoie of Raconteur Life Story Writing was our conduit to meeting Father Calais and we thank you, Olivia, for your continued partnership with Discover Lafayette in helping us identify the people who define our community!

Father Calais with his mother, Aline Calais, in the early 1990s.

The high points in our interview relate to Father Calais’ appreciation for the mentorship of Father Braquet, the importance of Charlene Richard as being a conduit to miracles for his flock, and to be honest, the words of Father Calais as an older man who understands the importance of love for his fellow man.

Father Calais at Charlene Richard’s grave in 2022