The Collect | April 2026
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May 1, 2026Dear Reader,This April, we are reminded of the many ways our diocesan community continues to live out the Gospel with faith and dedication. In this edition of The Collect, we highlight stories that reflect both the strength and compassion of our Church.
You’ll read about the 25th anniversary of Woman’s New Life Clinic and its ongoing commitment to serving women and families, as well as efforts to put faith into action during the legislative session. We also share reflections on being peacemakers, updates on diocesan leadership including upcoming deacon assignments, and the inspiring witness of Sister Kathleen Babin’s lifetime of service. In addition, we celebrate the achievements of our diocesan Students of the Year.
Thank you for walking with us as we continue to share the work of the Church across the Diocese of Baton Rouge.
Peace in Christ,
The Communications Secretariat of the Diocese of Baton Rouge
Woman's New Life Clinic Celebrates 25 Years of Caring for Women and BabiesWoman's New Life Clinic (WNLC) began 25 years ago as a belief that God was calling a community to be a sign of love in the world. God honored that act of faith through increasing WNLC's ability to provide life-affirming care to women with unplanned pregnancies, according to Allison Daigle, WNLC CEO.
LCCB Invites People to Put Faith into Action During Legislative SessionLouisiana state legislators are bustling about the halls and meeting rooms of the Louisiana State Capitol conducting business during the 2026 regular legislative session. The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops (LCCB) is educating legislators on bills that can impact people physically and spiritually, according to LCCB Executive Director Tom Costanza.
"Blessed Are the Peacemakers:" A Statement from Bishop Duca
In recent days, written and verbal remarks have been made by President Trump regarding Pope Leo XIV, describing the Holy Father in political terms and questioning his moral leadership. Bishop Duca issues this official statement to the clergy and lay faithful of the Diocese of Baton Rouge.
Bishop Duca Announces 2026 Permanent Deacon Assignments
In consultation with the Office of the Diaconate, the Office of Formation for the Permanent Diaconate, and the Clergy Personnel Board, Bishop Michael Duca makes several appointments effective 01 June 2026.
Sister Kathleen Babin Celebrates Century of Leadership, Friendships
For the second time in seven months, a sister of St. Joseph of Baton Rouge has been "dubbed royalty" with a tierra and sash to mark her 100th birthday. 
Diocesan Students of the Year Attend State Awards Ceremony
Three Diocese of Baton Rouge Students of the Year joined other accomplished student from the state at the 2026 Louisiana Catholic Schools Student of the Year Ceremony.
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