Dear Reader,

This September, we’ve witnessed stories of healing, remembrance, and renewal that show how faith brings hope in every season of life. In this edition of The Collect, you’ll find powerful moments where our diocesan family gathered to listen, to learn, and to honor.

You’ll read about retreats offering healing and hope, how our community came together on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, and the ways catechists are being equipped to share the reason for our hope. We also pause to remember Father Tom Duhe with gratitude for his life of service, and we reflect on the call to open wide our hearts through listening and dialogue.

Thank you for joining us in prayer, gratitude, and hope as we continue to see the Spirit at work in our diocese.

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

---

Healing Retreats Bring Light of Hope to Circumstances

During this Jubilee Year of Hope people may abandon their journeys or wander off because of the need for healing. Defeatist thoughts such as, "I can't," "This situation (or person) will never change," and "I need a quick fix" can lead them into being spiritually stuck. Spiritual direction and healing retreats can help these people break through such barriers to freedom.
READ THE ARTICLE

---

Katrina Tales: Community Gathers to Remember, Give Thanks on Hurricane Katrina 20th Anniversary

Twenty years ago, Hurricane Katrina taught people unforgettable lessons about how fragile life is and how strong human and community bonds can be in response. The Baton Rouge community gathered to remember, give thanks, and share messages of hope during a service hosted by the Interfaith Federation of Greater Baton (IFGB).
READ THE ARTICLE

---

Catechists Equipped to Explain Reason for Their Hope at Convocation

In today's world, as people spread the Gospel message, people may rebuff them and demand to "show me the reason for your hope." Catechesis and evangelization require a knowledge and love of the Lord that speaks of a hope rooted in trust and confidence in God.
READ THE ARTICLE

---

In Memoriam: Father Tom Duhe

It is with sadness that the Diocese of Baton Rouge informs the faithful of the death of Fr. Tom Duhe, a retired priest of our diocese, who passed away on 15 September 2025. Before his retirement, he served as Pastor of St. Thomas More in Baton Rouge. He also served a variety of other parishes and ministries.
READ THE ARTICLE

---

Attendees Asked to "Open Wide Your Hearts" at Listening Session

In 2018 the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued their pastoral letter on racism, “Open Wide Your Hearts.” The document called people to have an enduring love for people of different backgrounds.
READ THE ARTICLE

---

Interested in reading more from The Catholic Commentator?

Every week new articles are published to The Catholic Commentator online.
VISIT THE CATHOLIC COMMENTATOR

What's going on in the Diocese of Baton Rouge?
VIEW THE EVENT CALENDAR

Don't forget to follow The Diocese of Baton Rouge on social media @DioceseBR.
Facebook | Instagram