LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – Friday the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist will be filled with religious leaders and followers as the Diocese of Lafayette celebrates the installment of their seventh bishop.

The Diocese of Lafayette is preparing for the installation of the new bishop. Bishop-elect John Douglas Deshotel has been serving in the Diocese of Dallas since 1978. Deshotel said he is looking forward to the big day.

“It is a great thrill. I’m seeing a lot of people that I’ve seen for many, many years and a lot of new faces as well in the diocese.”

Deshotel grew up in Basile, Louisiana. He said he is thrilled to return to his roots.

“Now by God’s design, he asked me to come back to the Diocese of Lafayette to serve as the bishop here. I came to school, actually in this very location as a high school student.”

The installment will be held at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Friday at 3 p.m. Due to the lack of seating, the cathedral is invitation only, but Msgr, Curtis Mallet says seating for the public will be available in the Cathedral Caramel School gym.

“The Cathedral gymnasium will be a place for overflow for the installation mass for Bishop Deshotel. The floor and the bleachers will be available.”

Mallet says seating will be limited, so guests should arrive early. Doors open at 1 p.m. A reception will be held at the Wyndham Hotel immediately following the ceremony. The reception is open to the public.