10/28/2025
✨ Project Spotlight: St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church – Parish Center Renovation ✨
We’re honored to share renderings of the final design for the Parish Center Renovation at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
This project represents more than a renovation—it’s a continuation of a powerful legacy of faith, resilience, and community.
In the 1950s, many African-American Catholics from rural Southern Louisiana moved to North Baton Rouge seeking industrial and educational opportunities. At that time, the Black Catholic community worshipped at another community church but often felt culturally excluded. In response, Archbishop Joseph Rummel of New Orleans established St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church to meet the spiritual and communal needs of the Black Catholic community.
Under the leadership of Reverend Monsignor Paul J. Gauci, the former Capitol Theatre on Capitol Avenue (now Gus Young Avenue) was acquired and transformed into the first home of St. Paul at a cost of approximately $100,000.
In 1969, the Parish Center we are renovating was constructed to further support the church’s growing ministries and community programs.
Since 1960, the mission of St. Paul has been to be the very presence of Jesus in this community, in every way: spiritually, socially, academically, politically, medically, and personally lifting up the lives of every parishioner and the people within the Eden Park community. As a church, it is our joyful call to respond to the Gospel of Jesus, who said, “Whatever you do to the least of these my brothers & sisters, you do for me.” (Matthew 25:40).
The upcoming renovation of the Parish Center carries this legacy forward through comprehensive interior and exterior upgrades that enhance functionality, comfort, and aesthetics while honoring the church’s welcoming and community-centered character.
We’re proud to help continue St. Paul’s tradition of service, faith, and community—ensuring this cherished space remains a vibrant hub for worship and fellowship for generations to come.
https://stpaulbr.org/