“They say these walls have witnessed miracles” whispered a woman next to me. We stood before the Center of Jesus the Lord in New Orleans. Its history is rich and profound.
Thirty years ago Father Emile Lafranz founded the Center. He envisioned a unique ministry within the Archdiocese of New Orleans a place where people could experience Jesus in a new powerful way. Countless lives have been transformed within its walls. The Holy Spirit has worked wonders here healing hearts and bringing people closer to God.
The Center’s story is deeply intertwined with the Monastery of St Joseph and St Teresa. In 1877 four Carmelite nuns arrived in New Orleans. They established a monastery a house of prayer. These women lived lives of poverty and intense prayer. They were artists artisans. They painted sewed baked and gardened. They even made their own sandals. The monastery expanded over the years becoming a sprawling complex with courtyards gardens and even rooftop patios.
In 1971 the aging monastery fell into disrepair. The nuns moved leaving behind a silent building. For four years it stood empty slowly decaying. Then Father Lafranz arrived. He saw the potential. He saw a place of spiritual renewal.
With tireless work and countless volunteers he restored the building. The Center of Jesus the Lord was born. Prayer meetings healing services and retreats began. They also helped the poor and those struggling with addiction.
The Center thrived. It became a spiritual oasis. Then tragedy struck. Hurricane Katrina in 2005 caused over $350000 in damages. The community rallied returning to celebrate the Eucharist just weeks after the storm. They rebuilt their ministry renewing their commitment to serve the people of New Orleans.
In 2016 the Center moved to its current location at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church. It continues to be a vibrant center of faith hope and healing. Father Lafranz’s vision lives on a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. The Center of Jesus the Lord remains a beacon of light in New Orleans.