LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – The Diocese of Lafayette’s Centennial Campaign is underway and with a goal of just over 40 million dollars the diocese is inviting the community to participate. 2018 marks the 100th year anniversary of the foundation of the Diocese of Lafayette, and while it’s a time to reflect on the past Diocese members are focusing on the future.

The diocese serves eight parishes and includes over 100 churches. Vicar General to the diocese Monsignor Curtis Mallet said the goal of the centennial campaign is to prepare for the future.

“I think having a capital campaign is one way to, in the terms of the campaign, building our future together, to do that. So that’s how it all started and that’s what it’s focused on not just the last hundred years but the next hundred years.”

The campaign is focusing on five areas of service. Including local parish initiatives, seminarian education, priest retirement, Catholic student centers, and Catholic outreach and services.

Our lady of perpetual help catholic church in new Iberia is participating in the campaign. Father Bill Melancon said these areas are vital to the success of the church.

“They truly are vital to the continuation of our presence, work, and service in the diocese. When people see what the needs are they are more than willing to contribute.”

Melancon said the donations will support the Catholic religion in Acadiana.

“It keeps our presence and doing Christ work here, which is what we want to do for the next hundred years and thousands of years.”

So far the churches within the diocese have pledged 18 million dollars.