March 31, 2026

Dear Reader,

This March, we enter more deeply into the Lenten season, a time to draw closer to Christ through prayer, sacrifice, and trust. In this edition of The Collect, we reflect on accompanying Jesus through Holy Week and allowing Him to lead us in the desert, deepening our relationship with God.

You will also discover inspiring stories from across our diocese: the generosity of the Women’s Giving Circle, the beauty of lasting marriage through everyday faithfulness, and the return of beloved traditions like the St. Joseph Altar at St. Michael High School. We also highlight those courageously responding to God’s call to serve, reminding us that each vocation is a gift to the Church.

Thank you for walking with us during this sacred season as we witness God’s grace at work in the Diocese of Baton Rouge.

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

Holy Week a Sacred Time to Accompany Jesus to His Death and Victory Over Death

As we prepare to enter Holy Week, we prepare to enter the central liturgical experience of the Catholic faith, according to Father Tom Ranzino. Father Ranzino is the director of the office of worship of the Diocese of Baton Rouge.
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Women's Giving Circle Celebrating Fifth Season

The Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of the Diocese of Baton Rouge continues to grow since its inception five years ago, increasing its ability to reach out to ministries that work with those in need.
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Allowing Jesus to Lead in the Desert Deepens Our Relationship with God

Walking in the footsteps of Jesus in the desert and facing our weaknesses and failures during Lent may tempt us to retreat to our comfort zone. Thoughts of "this is too hard," or "surely God didn't mean for me to go through this" may cause us to give up. Formation directors in the Diocese of Baton Rouge urge us to persevere if we want victory in our spiritual lives.
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Scardinas Find Lasting Marriage by Navigating Daily Circumstances Together

Simple moments have been the most memorable and treasured ones for Jacob and Oceania Scardina over their 70 years of marriage.
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St. Michael High School Resumes St. Joseph Altar

After many years of absence, St. Michael High School in Baton Rouge’s (SMHS) St. Joseph Altar resumed this year with strong support from students.
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Here I am Lord

The Diocese of Baton Rouge celebrated the Rite of Election for the Latino/Hispanic community March 8 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Baton Rouge. The ceremony is an important step for people preparing to enter the Catholic Church through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) and Children (OCIC) programs.
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