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The Collect | April 2025
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April 30, 2025Dear Reader,
April was a month of reflection, renewal, and powerful witness in the Diocese of Baton Rouge. In this edition of The Collect, we remember the life and legacy of Pope Francis, celebrate the establishment of a new House of Formation, and share the inspiring journey of a convert to the Catholic faith.
You'll also find thoughtful guidance for parents navigating conversations about faith, sexuality, and human dignity, as well as stories of hope through ministries like Walking with Moms in Need and Sanctuary for Life. As we continue to walk together in faith, we also commemorate the 200th anniversary of St. Joseph Cemetery—a reminder of the deep roots of our Catholic community.
We hope these stories encourage and inspire you.
In Christ,
The Communications Secretariat of the Diocese of Baton Rouge
In Memoriam: Pope Francis (1936-2025)Pope Francis died on Monday, April 21, 2025 at the age of 88. He was elected pope on March 13, 2013, and he was the first pope in history from the Southern Hemisphere.READ THE ARTICLE
Bishop Duca Establishes New House of FormationTo prepare seminarians in the Diocese of Baton Rouge for a new way of life through involvement in parish ministry and in social and charitable outreach, and all in communion with the bishop and presbyterate of Baton Rouge, Bishop Duca is pleased to establish the new Blessed Stanley Rother House of Formation at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Baton Rouge.
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Kennedy Takes Leap of Faith into the Catholic Church
Ashton Kennedy was drawn to the Catholic Church but held back from entering because of unanswered questions. But with the support of family members who had entered the church and a "posthumous nudge" from Father Mark Beard to “get off the fence,” Kennedy took the leap of faith.
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Many parents avoid talking to their children and teens about sex and contraception because they feel uneasy talking about the topic or think, “my child would never …” The realities of today, however, show that if they don’t talk about it, their children will learn from other sources parents may not trust.
Children's Dignity When Talking to Them about Sex, Contraception
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Women in crisis pregnancy situations have a critical need to know they are not alone. Walking with Moms in Need travels with them so they can care for their children and see possibilities for their futures.
Moms with Crisis Pregnancies Not Alone with Walking with Moms in Need
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Sanctuary for Life Helps Homeless Mothers Have Hope for the Future
Women in crisis pregnancy situations have a critical need to know they are not alone. Walking with Moms in Need travels with them so they can care for their children and see possibilities for their futures.
READ THE ARTICLE
When people stroll through the St. Joseph cemetery, with its gnarled moss-covered oak trees, is they are browsing through the pages of an “open history book.” Stories emerge of the society, culture, families, and people which have shaped the Baton Rouge area. The 200th anniversary of the cemetery is being celebrated with events scheduled throughout this year.
St. Joseph Cemetery's 200th Anniversary Celebration Highlights Cemetery's Unique History
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