Pastor- Rev. William P. Ruskoski
According to my mother, I was born on the 16th of March (2 weeks late) (Ha! Ha!) on a bright Sunday morning in Franklin, Louisiana. My father was William Paul Ruskoski, Sr. and my mother was Inez Genevieve McBride. Daddy was born in New Iberia and mama between Jeanerette and Baldwin in the country. I was loved…!!! Some say spoiled – mama said loved! I was reared by my mother, Grandmother, Grand Aunt and my Aunt (Mother’s Sister) and my Uncle – They were wonderful to me. I had one sister, Nikki who died in 1970. She was 30 years old. She had one daughter, Marie married to David Cole. What a gift. I was very close to my sister and my aunts 3 girls, Lori, Robyn and Anne.
I first considered the priesthood in the 1st grade – 1st Communion – Thank you Sr. Irene, M.S.C.! I went to Hanson High School where I was taught by the Christian Brothers – great models of faith! I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Education from U.S.L. I entered the Seminary in my Senior Year at U.S.L. I spent one year at Immaculata Seminary where the Chancery is today. I thank God for Fr. David Mouille, Fr. Don Piraro, Msgr. John Disch and Fr. Oneil Landry. They called me to the Priesthood and I thank God! I am a Happy Priest! When it really hit me it was because I somehow knew Jesus loved me and I was then free to choose. I spent four years at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans. When I came to love and appreciate all forms of ministry and discover my gifts. My first assignment was for 3 years in Lake Charles at Our Lady Queen of Heaven with Msgr. DeBlanc and I got to know my life long friend and support, Msgr. Louis Melancon. I then was sent to Kaplan with Fr. Dan Schexnayder to Our Lady of the Holy Rosary for a wonderful 5 years. I spent one year at St. Peter in Four Corners. Then I was called to St. Jules in Franklin as Pastor. I worked there with Sr. Rochelle Pemier, M.S.C. and God worked again. I then was called back to Kaplan for 3 years – great to return. I then was called to St. Francis in Arnaudville for 8 years when I got to know and love Fr. Brian Taylor – I then was called here to St. Joseph in Rayne and was Blessed to work with Fr. Vu, Fr. Buddy and now Fr. Brian. I have worked now for 6 years with Mr. Albert Johnson – Thank You Jesus – Isaiah said I call you by name you are mine – at ordination I was given a banner made by Sr. Melavia, SSND, “You are a Priest forever”, God has enriched my life so much with wonderful people to work with. I love St. Joseph and the people of Rayne – God Grant me the blessing to remain.
I Love You! Fr. Bill
