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Baton Rouge Church Launches Fundraiser to Rebuild After 2024 Fire
St. Luke's Episcopal Church seeks $3-$3.5 million to construct new 350-seat facility
Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:48pm
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St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Baton Rouge has launched a public fundraising campaign to rebuild its place of worship after a devastating fire in February 2024 reduced the building to rubble. The church is aiming to raise between $3 million and $3.5 million to construct a new 350-seat facility that will include expanded gathering areas and a chapel.
Why it matters
The fire at St. Luke's Episcopal Church was a major loss for the Baton Rouge community, as the church had served as a gathering place for parishioners for decades. The rebuilding effort represents an opportunity for the church to not only restore its physical space, but also renew its commitment to its mission and strengthen its role in the local community.
The details
The public phase of the fundraising campaign was officially launched at a special event on March 21, 2026. The event included an address from Bishop Shannon Duckworth, a chance for parishioners to view construction progress, live music, and an opportunity for guests to sign columns that will be installed at the entrance of the new church building. Church leaders announced that they have already received about $3 million in donations, putting them well on their way to reaching their fundraising goal.
- The fire at St. Luke's Episcopal Church occurred in the early morning hours of a Saturday in February 2024.
- The public fundraising campaign was officially launched on March 21, 2026.
The players
St. Luke's Episcopal Church
A place of worship in Baton Rouge, Louisiana that was devastated by a fire in 2024.
Bishop Shannon Duckworth
The bishop who addressed the crowd at the fundraising campaign launch event.
Fr. Bryan Owen
The rector for St. Luke's Episcopal Church who spoke about the significance of the rebuilding effort.
Amy Binck
The co-chair of the committee overseeing the fundraising campaign and rebuilding effort.
What they’re saying
“This capital campaign is about far more than rebuilding what was lost. It is a tangible expression of restoration and renewal - of reclaiming sacred space, renewing our shared life together, and recommitting ourselves to the mission God has entrusted to St. Luke's.”
— Fr. Bryan Owen, Rector, St. Luke's Episcopal Church
“As we honor our past and build our future, we trust this work will strengthen our parish now and for generations to come.”
— Amy Binck, Committee Co-Chair
What’s next
The newly rebuilt St. Luke's Episcopal Church is expected to seat about 350 worshipers and will include expanded gathering areas and a chapel. There will also be a new Pope Hall on the church grounds, providing about 4,000 square feet of flexible space for parish events.
The takeaway
The rebuilding of St. Luke's Episcopal Church represents a community-driven effort to restore a beloved place of worship and strengthen the church's role in the Baton Rouge area. The public fundraising campaign has already garnered significant support, demonstrating the deep commitment of parishioners and the broader community to this important project.
