Frequently Asked Questions
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Find answers to some of the questions you may have regarding the St. Expedite Lodge here. We’ve addressed some of the most common ones below, but if something isn’t clear feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to assist you in any way possible.
What does the St. Expedite Lodge do?
The St. Expedite Lodge's mission is to preserve the Italian-American heritage and culture in Southern Louisiana, while also strengthening the ties that bond one generation to the next, promoting and inspiring a positive image and legacy, and cultivating stronger relationships to unify our local and national community.
How much of my donation directly supports the cause?
Your donations are used to support the events and projects the St. Expedite Lodge takes on each year. As this is a nonprofit, the board members receive no compensation, so that all of the money received (through donations and membership dues) can be best utilized in furthering the mission of the St. Expedite Lodge.
Why is it named after St. Expedite? Why is it called a "lodge"?
The name St. Expedite has a bit of folklore attached, but the main reason it was chosen was due to it's connection in Southern Louisiana. There is a devotional chapel dedicated to St. Expedite found in Independence, LA. Additionally, St. Expedite is found embedded into New Orleans culture as well. He is the patron saint of urgent causes, something we felt the state of the Italian-American community and this country were in when the lodge started.
It is called a lodge in honor of the lodges our Italian ancestors created to house the Italian communities found all across the country. As we moved into the modern era, these physical locations have now become "virtual lodges", allowing for the Italian communities to span a wider region than proximity to a physical lodge could allow.