Catholic education is making headlines this week, from major chapel renovations in Ohio to creative approaches in Louisiana classrooms.
Across the country, schools and parishes are finding new ways to connect faith with modern challenges — and the results are inspiring.
Franciscan University Expands Its Beloved Chapel
At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students and faculty gathered to celebrate the reopening of the Christ the King Chapel after more than a year of renovations.
The project, part of the school’s Rebuild My Church Capital Campaign, has transformed the space into something both larger and more beautiful.
The chapel nearly doubled its seating — growing from 325 to 590 spots — to welcome the university’s expanding student body.
New features include a striking altar, a tabernacle, fresh sacred art, and vibrant stained-glass windows.
The renovations were officially blessed on August 17 in a Mass led by Bishop Edward Lohse, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Steubenville.
Historic Black Parish Finds New Life as a College STEM Hub
In Louisville, Kentucky, a former Catholic church is beginning a new chapter.
Christ the King Catholic Church, once a thriving Black parish, has been donated by the Archdiocese of Louisville to Simmons College of Kentucky.
After the parish closed in March, plans were made to turn the property into a science and technology campus.
The renovation project, expected to cost around $32 million, will give Simmons new classrooms and labs.
Leaders say it’s about more than just new buildings — it’s about creating opportunities in STEM for underrepresented communities.
“There’s a real need for talent across the commonwealth,” said Simmons Chief of Staff Myra Rock.
Archbishop Shelton Fabre explained that the parish’s closure was due to declining membership and the difficulty of maintaining the historic property.
Oklahoma Archdiocese Opens New Education Center for Immigrants
Meanwhile in Oklahoma City, Catholic leaders celebrated the opening of the Holy Angels Education Center, built on the grounds of a parish that closed in 2023.
The new facility is designed to serve immigrants, offering programs in language, cultural integration, and job skills.
Archbishop Paul Coakley joined community members for the ribbon-cutting.
Larann Wilson, associate director of evangelization, described the center as “a beacon of support and opportunity” for families building new lives in the area.
ExxonMobil Supports Maryland Catholic School STEM Programs
In Maryland, St. Joseph’s Regional Catholic School in Beltsville received a $5,000 donation from ExxonMobil Baytown.
The gift will help expand science education and encourage students to see themselves as future innovators and problem-solvers.
The school’s mission centers on working hand-in-hand with families to nurture not just academics, but also faith and character.
Leaders say the grant is a boost toward preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow.
Louisiana School Welcomes Nuns and Therapy Dogs for a Gentle Start
One of the most heartwarming stories comes from Baton Rouge.
Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic School started its year by inviting nuns and therapy dogs to campus.
The idea was simple: to bring peace and comfort to students, especially those struggling with anxiety at the start of school.
Father Joshua Johnson, the school’s pastor, said the effect was immediate.
“When I saw the peace the dogs brought to the kids, especially those with anxiety, I knew we needed more dogs and more nuns,” he shared.
The initiative has already left a deep impression on students and parents alike.
