Catholic Charities & the Diocese of Baton Rouge Partner to Launch Advent Food Drive

Baton Rouge, LA – The Diocese of Baton Rouge and Catholic Charities of Baton Rouge extend heartfelt gratitude to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV for his recent letter to Catholic Charities across the United States. His message, rooted in the spirit of Christian charity and solidarity, reminds us that our mission is not merely to serve, but to love—especially those who are vulnerable, hungry, and forgotten. We are deeply moved by his words and encouraged by his pastoral care for the vulnerable in our communities.

In his latest exhortation, Dilexi Te (“I Have Loved You”), Pope Leo calls the Church to renew its commitment to the poor, not as a duty but as a joyful response to Christ’s love. He writes, “To love the poor is to love Christ Himself, hidden in the wounds of the world.” This teaching resonates deeply with our diocesan mission and inspires us to act with renewed compassion and urgency. We believe that every act of mercy, no matter how small, participates in the divine love that transforms lives.

In response to the Holy Father’s call, the Diocese of Baton Rouge is launching a community-wide food drive on Friday, December 5^th from 9 AM to 4 PM. All are invited to contribute non-perishable food items to help feed food-insecure families throughout our region. Collection bins will be placed outside of the Westerfield Building at the Catholic Life Center, and volunteers will be available to assist with donations. 

We encourage everyone to participate in this effort, remembering that even the smallest gesture can be a powerful sign of God’s love. As Pope Leo reminds us in Dilexi Te, “The measure of love is not abundance, but sacrifice.” Let us come together as one Church, united in faith and service, to bring hope to those who hunger not only for food, but for dignity, compassion, and community.