New Orleans archdiocese plans to remove Anthony Odiong's name from chapel
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 1
New Orleans archdiocese plans to remove Anthony Odiong's name from chapel
4 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 1
The move affects Our Lady of Guadalupe Healing Chapel in Luling, Louisiana, ahead of a 26 May Texas trial over allegations involving three female congregants.
Odiong, 57, has denied wrongdoing and remains jailed on $5.5m bail; prosecutors say he exploited women’s spiritual dependence, with charges carrying a possible life sentence.
The removal would align with the archdiocese’s bankruptcy settlement requiring public recognition of credibly accused clergy to be taken down from church properties.
Could the Church's internal review process risk mislabeling clergy, and what safeguards exist to ensure fairness for both accused and survivors?
How are survivors being supported emotionally and spiritually beyond monetary settlements in the New Orleans archdiocese?
Will removing Odiong's name and other non-monetary reforms actually prevent future abuse or are they mostly symbolic gestures?
Anthony Odiong’s Criminal Trial and the Archdiocese of New Orleans’ $230M Settlement: Accountability Amid Clergy Abuse
Overview
In late 2025, the Archdiocese of New Orleans finalized a $230 million bankruptcy settlement that required removing public honors for clergy credibly accused of abuse. This led to the removal of Anthony Odiong's name from the healing chapel in early 2026, a chapel closely linked to his ministry as pastor until his dismissal in December 2023 amid mounting allegations. Odiong faces a criminal trial in May 2026 on multiple felony charges supported by digital evidence, survivor testimonies, and DNA proof of abuse. Despite warnings from the Diocese of Austin in 2019, the Archdiocese failed to act promptly, allowing Odiong to continue his ministry for years. The settlement also mandates reforms and ongoing oversight to prevent future abuses and restore trust.