Fr. Michael Champagne is a Catholic priest and the Superior at Community of Jesus Crucified — a religious order dedicated to ministering to those most in need and suffering, with priority given to those who are unserved or underserved. Though the Community of Jesus Crucified works in many regions, their order has made a deep investment in St. Martinville, particularly after it was devastated by flooding in 2016. The order started with a food pantry and community kitchen, serving hot meals in a region that was already struggling with widespread poverty before the flood waters. Priest, brothers, sisters, and lay people came together to found St. Theresa Works of Mercy and the Don Bosco Oratory, community centers where volunteers work to provide whatever is needed — shelter, food, education, counseling and life skills training — for children in the area.

In just a few years, the Oratory has taught hundreds of children the skills they will need to succeed in the world: cooking, painting, carpentry, repairing appliances, financial literacy and much more. Fr. Champagne would be quick to point out that the work for which he is being honored tonight belongs to the hands of many people. But there is one particular area in which his own spirit is especially and undeniably present: as a teacher, mentor and paternal influence. Fr. Champagne reaches out to young people with his whole heart, teaching them with respect and dignity. To him, it is essential that each child knows that they are important, valued and loved.