Press Release: Catholic Charities of Acadiana receives donation and permanent installation of world-renowned “Homeless Jesus” sculpture to commemorate 50th anniversary

In remembrance of their 50th anniversary, a longstanding donor presented Catholic Charities of Acadiana with a sculpture entitled “Homeless Jesus” by globally recognized Canadian sculptor Timothy Schmalz. The sculpture was installed this week on the grounds of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist along St. John Street. Catholic Charities of Acadiana is grateful for the continued support of the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist and their offering of permanent public display for the sculpture.

“We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our donor, who has helped sustain our homeless shelters for many years,” said Kim Boudreaux, CEO of Catholic Charities of Acadiana. “For generations, our community has demonstrated its faith and deeply rooted compassion through service to those in need. I sincerely hope that this legacy of compassion will endure as a prominent characteristic of Acadian culture and that this sculpture may aid as a reminder to seek the face of Christ in the distressing disguise of the poor.”

A formal unveiling and blessing will occur on May 11, 2022, at 12:45 pm, presided over by Bishop Douglas Deshotel. Sculptor and “Homeless Jesus” creator Timothy Schmalz will present at the Acadiana Center for the Arts later that evening.

Over the past decades, Schmalz has created powerful life-size representations of Christianity. His sculptures reside in major cities in front of some of the most historically significant Christian sites in the world, including Capernaum, the Vatican, and Florence. In recent years, he has worked directly with the Vatican to create sculptures highlighting spiritual concerns in our modern day. 

Catholic Charities of Acadiana has served as an organizer of charity for the past 50 years. Catholic Charities of Acadiana cares for the sacred gift of all human life, especially the most vulnerable. Catholic Charities of Acadiana operates several programs that serve those currently experiencing homelessness, hunger, and poverty in Acadiana. Since 1973, its programs have represented a response to the Gospel call to carry out the corporal works of mercy: feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, offering hospitality to the homeless, caring for the sick, visiting the imprisoned, and burying the dead.