Catholic Schools

Catholic schools are deeply rooted in the rich heritage of the diocese. The tradition is strong, dating back to September 1852 in Bay St. Louis when Father Louis Stanislaus Buteux opened the first parish school.

Catholic schools are a major resource for nurturing faith and fostering values in the lives of our children. They are a vital ministry of our parishes and help to make possible the parish mission to teach, make holy, and serve. The teaching of Christian values provides a Catholic identity that is essential to educating the whole person - intellectually, socially, physically, and spiritually.

The worship of God, the challenge to live Gospel values, and the display of religious symbols create an environment and atmosphere in our Catholic schools that supplement the home and ensure that Catholic teachings are taught in accordance with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. While seriously challenged due to aging facilities, shifting populations, increasing financial costs, and damage due to the storm, Catholic education continues to be viewed as a vital ministry in our diocese and represents a treasure that we must guard with great diligence.