Dear Reader,

This June, we celebrate the many ways God is at work throughout the Diocese of Baton Rouge. In this edition of The Collect, join us as we rejoice in the ordination of two new transitional deacons and reflect on our diocesan participation in the historic consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

You'll also discover how Immaculate Conception Church is opening its doors to serve the community during times of need, how young people are living the Gospel through missionary service in Mid City, and how the Society of St. Vincent de Paul continues to expand its ministry to those in need. Finally, follow the inspiring journey of a grandfather and granddaughter as they walk the Maryland Camino together in faith.

Thank you for walking with us as we continue to witness God's grace at work throughout our diocese.

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

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Two Men Ordained Transitional Deacons for the Diocese of Baton Rouge

Before a jubilant gathering of family and friends at St. Joseph Cathedral Deacons Aeli Poydras and Jeremy Chiasson took their final major step toward priesthood. They were ordained transitional deacons for the Diocese of Baton Rouge.

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Diocese of Baton Rouge Participating in Consecration of United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

The Diocese of Baton Rouge will join the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in consecrating the nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

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Immaculate Conception Church Baton Rouge to be a Light in the Dark During Storms

In 2008 when Hurricane Gustav struck Baton Rouge and plunged the city into darkness, Immaculate Conception Church in Baton Rouge was literally powerless to help its neighbors. With the installation of solar panels on ICC's parish activity center, when storms hit ICC will serve as a community lighthouse to meet peoples’ needs.

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Youth Find Mission Field in Mid-City Neighborhoods

Shirley Johnson was one of the neighbors of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Baton Rouge who received an outpouring of love from the church. Youth from Sacred Heart's Mid-City Mission painted her house and worked in her yard and conveyed that she is not forgotten.

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St. Vincent de Paul Cuts Ribbon for Multi-Purpose Thrift Store

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) of Baton Rouge celebrated the opening of its largest thrift store with a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 6.

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Grandfather and Granddaughter to Explore Roots of U.S. Catholic Faith at Camino of Maryland

Mark Legendre, 70, made lifetime memories during his pilgrimage at the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) in 2023. Afterwards he longed to do something with similar experiences. He found the opportunity to do that with his granddaughter, Harper Jenny, 14, by walking the Camino of Maryland together. They are the oldest and youngest participants registered for the event.

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