Episode 89: The Evolution of Saints – A Shreveport Story

Louisiana Insider

In 1873, one of the worst Yellow Fever epidemics in the nation’s history swept through Shreveport. The then fledgling Archdiocese of Natchitoches recruited five priests from France to service the needy. All five died having known they would not return to their native country. Now there is a movement for the five to be canonized as saints. LSU-Shreveport Historian Cheryl White is a co-author of a book, “Shreveport Martyrs of 1873: The Surest Path to Heaven.” White joins Errol Laborde, executive editor of Louisiana Life, along with podcast producer Kelly Massicot to tell the moving story of the priests, as well as Yellow Fever, early Shreveport and the spread of religion in Louisiana.

Oh yes, we will also hear about the steps of canonization to be recognized as a saint.