The Imperial Calcasieu Delegation is an independent subjurisdiction in southwestern Louisiana that brings together representatives from eight parishes with shared economic, and cultural interests. This delegation includes Acadia Parish, Allen Parish, Beauregard Parish, Calcasieu Parish, Cameron Parish, Jefferson Davis Parish, Lafayette Parish, and Vermilion Parish.
Seat
- Lafayette, LA
The Delegation has adopted as its Hospitaller ministry the War Veterans’ Home in Jennings and Oasis (a home for battered women) in Lake Charles as well as being committed to the Order’s interests in organ and tissue donation.
In January 2006, members of the Commandery of the Southwest, centered in Houston, who resided in Southwest Louisiana, received official approval from the Grand Prior to organize themselves into a “cadre,” a grouping of fewer than fifteen members. Eight individuals initially formed what became known as the Imperial Calcasieu Cadre, encompassing the historic territory of the former Imperial Calcasieu Parish in the State of Louisiana. This region now includes five parishes: Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jefferson Davis.
The Cadre adopted by-laws and established a leadership structure consisting of three officers: a Chairman, who serves as the Senior Chaplain; a Vice-Chairman, who is the senior non-clergy member; and a Treasurer, appointed by the Chairman with the approval of the membership.
In addition to supporting the mission and objectives of the Order at both national and international levels, the members of the Cadre committed to two key local initiatives:
- Sponsoring an annual celebration honoring their Patron, Saint Lazarus, near his feast day in December.
- Collaborating with other Orders of Chivalry and local ministerial alliances to sponsor an annual Celebration of Prayer for Christian Unity during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in January.
In November 2012, on the Feast of Christ the King, the Grand Prior issued a decree elevating the Imperial Calcasieu Cadre to the status of a “Delegation,” following its growth to fifteen members. Today, the Delegation maintains this membership level, with an additional fifteen Associate Members. It continues to aspire toward eventual establishment as a Lieutenancy.
In 2017, the Delegation received authorization to expand its jurisdiction to include Acadia, Lafayette, and Vermilion Parishes.
The Imperial Calcasieu Delegation maintains an active schedule of events and gatherings throughout the year to support its mission of service, remembrance, and community engagement. The Delegation conducts Quarterly Meetings in February, May, August, and November, providing members with regular opportunities to collaborate, discuss initiatives, and address matters impacting the region.
In addition to these meetings, the Delegation organizes an Annual Pilgrimage, typically held between March and May, offering members a time for spiritual reflection and fellowship. During the spring season, the Delegation also hosts its annual Giver’s Candlelight Ceremony, a meaningful event dedicated to honoring organ, tissue, and cornea donors, as well as recognizing the lives they have touched through their generosity.
Toward the end of the year, the Delegation observes a prayer service and Christmas celebration held on or near the Feast Day of St. Lazarus in December. This gathering provides a time for remembrance, gratitude, and unity among members, reinforcing the Delegation’s commitment to faith, service, and community throughout the year.