Naming Names

I swore I wouldn't name names when I launched the Go To The Grass platforms a year ago on 02/29/24 — No calling people out for their good "stuff!" I didn't want awkward run-ins at Rouse’s Supermarket or elsewhere. No making things weird!

I'm proud to say that I’ve only broken that promise 1.5 times during my year of sharing. (Once, I used initials, so I count that as half.)

Today, I’m breaking it again.

I have to talk about Father S. Brice Higginbotham. (Father Brice)

My church is Our Lady of Prompt Succor in Chackbay, Louisiana, and if you’ve ever been to a Mass with Father Brice, you already know — Mass with him is JOY.

Why?

First, his homilies feel like messages from a dear, wise friend. He doesn’t just quote scripture; he delivers the good news in a way that makes me feel at home in OUR church. He’s unapologetically Christ and scripture-focused — no sugarcoating, no fluff, just truth.

Second, I learn something every week. See that book in the above picture? The Catechism of the Catholic Church? I had no idea it existed, and I read a book a week! (Okay, maybe most Catholics knew about it, but I did not. Stop judging!) Turns out, if I ever have a question about the Catholic Church, the answer is right there.

Third, he’s a communicator who meets us where we are. He’s young (just turned thirty-five this week), tech-savvy, and genuinely invested in making sure we get it. He hosts an entertaining and insightful podcast, leads Bible studies, and even equipped our church with hearing devices for those struggling to hear during Mass. And when he teaches, it’s never condescending — just real, honest, and engaging.

Finally, he just sounds like home. His messages are well-planned and polished, but his South Louisiana accent and delivery are a little Boudreaux, a little Thibodeaux, and completely familiar and comforting. Every Sunday, he connects scripture to real life, making me feel fed, fueled, and ready to face my week.

After Mass, we always go to breakfast and talk about his homily. His words stick with us, making us think about how we can be better people.

I’m a handwritten thank-you note kind of person, and EVERY week, I think about sending him one. But that would be too weird, right? (No? Okay. I’ll do it. Soon.)

But I’m Not Writing This to Say My Priest Is Better Than Yours! (That would be rude! Hahaha.)

I’m writing this because:

1. I want to hear why YOU love your church/priest. (Tell me in the comments!)

2. With Lent approaching, I want to encourage anyone who’s been away from Mass to consider coming back for Lent.

3.  I’d love to invite you to Our Lady of Prompt Succor if you don't have a church family. I promise you’ll feel welcome, and you’ll absolutely adore Father Brice.

   
   

Come sit with us. We’ll save you a spot!

Visit https://www.olopschackbay.org for more information!