A “collect,” pronounced KÄL-ekt,is type of prayer said during the Mass or the Divine Office that gathers the prayers and intentions of a congregation into a single petition directed to God.
In the spirit of this rich Catholic tradition, The Catholic Commentator presents“The Collect,”a gathering of articles, curated monthly, that will help you to stay in the know and up to date on news in the Diocese of Baton Rouge.
January’s stories invite us to begin the new year grounded in hope and healing. In this issue of The Collect, discover how our diocese is expanding catechetical outreach to better serve Hispanic and Latino communities, fostering inclusion and deeper faith formation. You’ll also read courageous reflections on youth suicide prevention, adoption, and the sacred complexity of motherhood, alongside moments of growth in Catholic health education and calls to prayer amid global conflict. Together, these stories remind us that even in challenging moments, faith opens pathways to compassion, understanding, and renewal.
December’s stories invite us into hope, reflection, and faithful witness during the Advent season.
In this issue of The Collect, explore how our diocese embraces the Jubilee Year’s message of hope, strengthens families as the domestic church, honors history with truth and dignity, and celebrates young people living out a life of service. Together, these stories remind us that even in waiting, the light of Christ is meant to be shared.
November’s stories reflect holiness, unity, and the mission we share as a Catholic family. In this issue of The Collect, discover how our diocese honors a remarkable candidate for sainthood, how our parish and school communities continue to strengthen their shared mission, and how faithful collaboration is transforming lives. These stories remind us that when we walk together in faith, grace multiplies.
October’s stories invite us to reflect on legacy, renewal, and the enduring power of faith.
In this issue of The Collect, discover how the Holy Spirit continues to move within our schools, parishes, and communities. From celebrating excellence in Catholic education to honoring lives of service and remembering those who came before us, these stories remind us that faith is both lived and handed on — one act of love, one generation, one prayer at a time.
September’s stories highlight healing, remembrance, and hope. In this issue of The Collect, discover how retreats are bringing renewal, how our community gathered to remember Hurricane Katrina, and how catechists are being equipped to share the faith. We also honor the life of Father Tom Duhe and reflect on the call to open wide our hearts in dialogue. These stories remind us that even in sorrow and remembrance, faith points us toward hope.