Tornado Strikes Louisiana Parish
An EF2 tornado hit Grand Prairie, Louisiana, in the early hours of Monday, March 31, 2025, causing significant damage to the property of St. Peter Catholic Church.
Damage Assessment
The tornado tore the roof off the parish catechism building, which was constructed in 1970. The rectory, built in 1950, was struck by fallen tree limbs, causing the structure to shift on its pillars. Other structures requiring replacement include the catwalk between the rectory and the church, a carport, and an awning over a handicap ramp. Additionally, several large, old oak trees on the property were damaged or fell, and multiple headstones in the parish cemetery were knocked over.
Church Building Spared
Notably, the main church building itself sustained no damage from the tornado. Parish secretary Debbie LaFleur mentioned that Father Jude Halphen attributes the church’s protection to the numerous relics housed within, including those of Blessed Carlos Acutis, St. Peter, St. Paul, and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. The church had undergone renovations last year, including the installation of a new altar from Belgium, and work is ongoing to install altar rails sourced from a closed church in Harlem.
Community Response and Next Steps
Parishioners responded quickly, cleaning up the debris on the property by Monday afternoon. The parish is now awaiting an assessment from structural engineers to determine the full extent of the damage and the estimated cost for repairs and rebuilding. LaFleur requested prayers for the parish during this challenging time.
