Statement of Father Michael Schatzle
Chairman of the Presbyteral Council
Diocese of Baton Rouge
I was delighted to hear the news that Father Shelton Fabre has been
named to be an Auxiliary Bishop of New Orleans by Pope Benedict XVI. I
understand that he will be the youngest bishop in the United States.
I have had the privilege of ministering in Father Fabre's hometown of
New Roads, and have served with him on various committees in the Diocese
of Baton Rouge. I am blessed to have Father Fabre as a personal friend,
and know him to be a wise, caring and compassionate shepherd to his
parishioners. He loves God and God's people. Our loss as a diocese is a
gain for the Church of New Orleans, of Louisiana, and beyond. I think I
can speak for all of the priests of our diocese in extending prayers
and best wishes to Bishop Shelton Fabre!