February 27, 2026

Dear Reader,

This February, we have witnessed inspiring moments of faith, unity, and formation across our Diocese. In this edition of The Collect, we share stories that reflect both the richness of our Catholic tradition and the vitality of our local Church.

You’ll read about the unique opportunity for dialogue created by the convergence of the Lenten and Ramadan calendars, the Vatican’s advancement of Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s cause for beatification, and the profound impact of the March for Life pilgrimage on our youth. We also celebrate the first Carlo Cup competition, Catholic Schools Week Mass, and the Distinguished Graduates Dinner. These are beautiful reminders of the gift and strength of Catholic education in the Diocese of Baton Rouge.

Thank you for journeying with us as we continue to witness Christ’s work in our parishes, schools, and families.

Peace in Christ,
The Communications Secretariat of the Diocese of Baton Rouge

Converging of Lent, Ramadan Calendars Brings Opportunities for Dialogue

In a rare alignment of calendars, Lent and the Muslim holy penitential season Ramadan began on the same day and are coinciding this year. Vatican officials and clergy of the Diocese of Baton Rouge urge the faithful to use this opportunity to pray for world peace.
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Vatican Clears the Way for Archbishop Sheen's Beatification

After clearing two big legal hurdles, Archbishop Fulton Sheen's beatification has been approved again by the Vatican.
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Youth Profoundly Changed During March for Life Pilgrimage

Many of youth of the Diocese of Baton Rouge who made the trek to Washington, D.C., experienced fun and made the lifelong memories that they expected. Beyond that, they expressed their surprise that their immersion in the Catholic faith and culture of life created "new beginnings" for them.
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Students Vie for First Carlo Cup Trophy

With inspiration from newly minted teen saint, Carlo Acutis, five high school teams in the Diocese of Baton Rouge competed in the first Catholic quiz bowl. The winner of the competition received the coveted Carlo Cup trophy.
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Diocese Celebrates Gift of Catholic Education at Catholic Schools Week Mass

The Diocese of Baton Rouge celebrated the collaborate effort of many to assure that students in its Catholic schools become worldwide leaders and disciples of Christ. During Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 25-31, it celebrated a Mass to give thanks and reflect on its mission of "evangelizing hearts, educating minds, encouraging talent and embracing the future."
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Diocese Honors Excellence Within its Schools at Distinguished Graduates Dinner

Graduates of the schools in the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge are known for influencing society worldwide by leading, serving, and sharing the Gospel Message. The Diocese of Baton Rouge recognized the excellence of some of these alumni in its annual Distinguished Graduates Awards Dinner on Jan. 26.
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